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Work Process and Recognition
Even when the design of the workstations is correct and
environmental factors are at their best, users can face risks
from task organization which can intensify the impact of other
risk factors, such as repetition. Additionally, failing to
recognize early warning signs could allow small problems to
develop into serious injuries. Addressing task organization
factors and medical awareness can help minimize the risk of
developing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and stop the
progression to injury.
Prolonged Periods of Activity
Potential Hazard
- Computer work, whether it's for a job or for fun, may
appear to be a low effort activity when viewed from a
total body perspective, but maintaining postures or
performing highly repetitive tasks for extended periods
can lead to problems in localized areas of the body. For
example, using a mouse for a few minutes should not be a
problem for most users, but performing this task for
several uninterrupted hours can expose the small muscles
and tendons of the hand to hundreds or even thousands of
activations (repetitions). There may not be adequate time
between activations for rest and recuperation, which can
lead to localized fatigue, wear and tear, and injury.
Likewise, maintaining static postures, such as viewing
the monitor, for a prolonged period of time without
taking a break can fatigue the muscles of the neck and
shoulder that support the head.
Possible Solutions
- Provide variation in tasks and workstations so there is
time to recover from the effects of activity. There are
several ways to provide recovery time for overused
muscles.
- Utilize an adjustable workstation so users can easily
change their working postures. The use of easily
adjustable furniture, for example, allows you to
frequently change seated postures, which allows
different muscle groups to provide support while
others rest.
- Ensure that there is enough work space so you can use
each hand alternately to perform mouse tasks. This
allows the tendons and muscles of the free hand to
rest.
- Substitute keystrokes for mousing tasks, such as
Ctrl+S to save, Ctrl+P to print. Especially if your
job is highly mouse intensive.
- High repetition tasks or jobs that require long periods
of static posture may require several, short rest breaks
(micro breaks or rest pauses). During these breaks users
should be encouraged to stand, stretch, and move around.
This provides rest and allows the muscles enough time to
recover.
- Alternate tasks whenever possible, mixing
non-computer-related tasks into the workday. This
encourages body movement and the use of different muscle
groups.
Medical Awareness and Training
Potential Hazard
- Employees who have not been adequately trained to
recognize hazards or understand effective work practices
designed to reduce these hazards are at a greater risk of
harm. Without proper medical awareness, MSD signs and
symptoms may go unnoticed and un-addressed. For example,
users who do not understand the risk of bad body postures
or techniques do not have the knowledge to actively
participate in their own protection. Detection and
reporting delays can result in more severe injury.
Possible Solutions
- Computer users should take the time to obtain general
ergonomics awareness training on the following issues:
- Factors related to specific computer components
- that may increase discomfort or risk of injury,
- Being aware of discomfort (signs and symptoms), and
- How to correctly use and adjust components and
environmental factors.
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