It is the study of how people interact with their work environment and the tools they use, with the goal of reducing injury and increasing efficiency.
Posture: Maintaining good posture while sitting, standing, and moving to prevent musculoskeletal disorders and improve physical health.
Workstation setup: Adjusting your computer, desk, and chair to promote better postural alignment and prevent strain from prolonged sitting.
Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs): Understanding the causes and prevention strategies for conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and tennis elbow.
Lifting techniques: Learning proper lifting techniques and using ergonomic lifting devices to prevent back injuries.
Vision health: Minimizing eye strain and fatigue when working on computers or in visually demanding occupations.
Workplace design: Creating ergonomic work environments that promote physical health and safety, including lighting, noise control, and ventilation.
Stretching and exercise: Incorporating regular physical activity and stretching into your daily routine to improve flexibility and muscle strength.
Manual handling: Developing safe manual handling practices to prevent injury when moving heavy objects.
Fatigue and stress management: Understanding how mental and emotional stress can affect physical health and developing strategies to manage and prevent burnout.
Personal protective equipment (PPE): Selecting and using appropriate PPE to protect yourself from physical hazards in the workplace.
Static Ergonomics: Refers to the study of the human body's static or non-moving positions while performing a task, such as sitting or standing.
Dynamic Ergonomics: Refers to the study of the human body's movements during work-related activities, such as lifting objects or operating machinery.
Repetitive Ergonomics: Refers to the study of performing the same motion or activity repeatedly and how it can impact the human body, such as typing or operating a machine for long periods.
Force Ergonomics: Refers to the study of the force or load placed on the human body while performing an activity, such as lifting heavy objects or applying pressure.
Postural Ergonomics: Refers to the study of maintaining a proper body posture while performing work-related activities to help prevent musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).