User's Manual

22
A
A
W
W
o
o
r
r
d
d
a
a
b
b
o
o
u
u
t
t
E
E
r
r
g
g
o
o
n
n
o
o
m
m
i
i
c
c
s
s
Ergonomics is the study of how people with their different physical characteristics
and ways of functioning relate to their working environment (the furnishings and
machines they use). The goal of Ergonomics is to incorporate comfort, efficiency,
and safety into the design of keyboards, computer desks, chairs, and other items in
an effort to prevent physical discomfort and health problems in the working envi-
ronment.
If your budget permits, buy ergonomically designed furniture such as chairs,
shelves, and desks that fit your physical characteristics and work methods.
You can create an ergonomically improved workstation without spending much
money. Following are a few tips to help you work effectively without a lot of physi-
cal discomfort:
• Keep your forearms, wrists, and hands in a relaxed position, with your el-
bows at your side.
• Position the keyboard and mouse so that you do not have to reach for
them.
• Don’t strike the keys too hard; type with a soft touch.
• Keep your thighs parallel to the floor and your feet flat on the floor or on a
footrest.
• Use a chair that provides good back support.
• Try to place the monitor so that there is little glare from the sun on the
monitor.
• Walk around the room every hour.
• Every half-hour look away from the computer screen for a few minutes.
• Vary your tasks throughout the day.
• Avoid resting your wrists on sharp edges.