RSPE WHS Guide

Published in the Research School of Physics Event Horizon
Vol43 Issue85 3–7 September 2018

Ergonomics / Workstation Set-up

With the building decanting and office relocation well underway, now is a good opportunity for everyone to take time to review their workstation to ensure that it is set up correctly. The correct set up of your workstation will assist in the prevention of musculoskeletal and strain related injuries, as well as reducing body and mental fatigue.

Correctly set up computer workstations help you be more comfortable, lower stress, and reduce sprain and strain type injuries cause by awkward positions and repetitive tasks.

Here are a few simple tips that everyone can follow to reduce your risk of injury.

• Position the computer monitor/s directly in front to reduce twisting your neck, head or back.
• Set monitors for that eyes are level with the top of monitor.at a viewing distance of 35-76cm.
• Position your keyboard directly in front of you.
• Have elbows flush on the work surface.
• Straight wrists onto the mouse and keyboard.
• Adjust your chair to suit you, including height and tilt, lumbar support and backrest position.
• Sit closely to the desk and remove fixed armrests if they stop you from doing this.
• Sit or Stand with a straight back.
• Fleet Flat on Ground (or footrest when seated if needed).
• Relaxed knees (when seated) and shoulders when seated and standing.
• Reduce the glare and shadowing on the screen.

For further guidance material on Office Ergonomics please complete the Pulse WHS Learning Module - Office Ergonomics Essentials or Guideline for setting up a workstation assessment.

If you have followed this guide, and completed the Pulse Learning Module, but suspect that you may have ergonomic issues, please contact RSPE Work Health and Safety [ohs.rspe@anu.edu.au] or one of RSPE’s Occupational Strains Liaison Officer Network (OSLO’s)