Computer ergonomics aims to design computer equipment that meets the needs of the user to prevent health problems and increase efficiency. Poor workplace design led to inefficiency and worker health problems in the past, but ergonomic design improved worker health and productivity. Computer-related jobs have led to health problems such as eye strain, back and neck problems, and carpal tunnel syndrome, but computer ergonomics recommends equipment and workplace improvements to combat these issues. Ergonomic keyboards, mice, chairs, desks, and monitor stands provide back support and reduce the chance of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Computer ergonomics encompasses the sciences involved in the safe and efficient use of computer equipment. In the 21st century, many jobs involve long periods of working with computer monitors, keyboards and other input devices. Improper use of these devices for extended periods can lead to repetitive stress injury (RSI) and other health problems for workers, as well as reduced efficiency for employers. Computer ergonomics seeks to remedy these problems by designing computer equipment to meet the needs of the user rather than forcing the user to conform to the computer’s design.
Ergonomic design has been studied for centuries, but the term ergonomics was coined in the 1940s. The industrial revolution of the 1800s and the introduction of the assembly line in the early 1900s helped create a new type of work environment. Workers could mass-produce large numbers of items quickly, but poor workplace design was soon found to contribute to inefficiency and worker health problems. Ergonomics, while not always known by that name, meant workers could produce items faster and better, and improved worker health reduced the need to replace and train employees.
In the late 20th century, such a technological revolution created millions of computer-related jobs around the world. As computers became efficient and convenient, these systems were brought into offices to replace older technology such as typewriters. Computers were often placed in old work rhythms that otherwise would have remained unchanged. Soon, workers were complaining of health problems such as eye strain and back or neck problems. Carpal tunnel syndrome, a nerve disorder affecting the wrist and hand, has spread due to the constant use of computer keyboards and mice.
The field of computer ergonomics attempts to combat these problems with scientific studies to improve equipment and workplaces. Computer ergonomics experts recommend, for example, that a computer screen be at eye level with the worker, positioned at approximately arm’s length for comfortable reading, and tilted back to reduce glare from sources of light. The keyboard should be centered in front of the user and positioned at or below the elbow. The mouse should be in a similar position and the user’s hand should only stay there when the mouse is in use. In fact, frequent short breaks from the mouse and keyboard can reduce the chance of RSI, especially when combined with regular stretching exercises.
Some computer equipment has been designed with computer ergonomics in mind. The ergonomic keyboard has a sloped surface alongside a cushioned pad, giving the user’s wrists a more natural and relaxed angle to reduce the chance of carpal tunnel syndrome. Even an ergonomic mouse is built to allow for a more natural position for the wrist and hand; one design is shaped like a pen, eliminating the need to place the wrist flat against the desk. These external devices can be added to a laptop for those who use this form of hardware as their primary device. Ergonomic chairs, desks, and monitor stands provide back support and don’t require the neck to be in tight or extended positions for extended periods.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
