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Creating and Working in an Ergonomic Office Workspace, Page 1
Articles, Information, Exercises, Tools, and Resources for Ergonomic Workspaces and Computer-Related Injury Prevention and Care
Creating a comfortable, ergonomic workspace is the theme of this section. Below I've listed helpful information about how to create or design an ergonomic office workspace, some of the more common computer-related injuries and prevention. The next page provides links to helpful ergonomic office furniture and ergonomic office or desk products and accessories.
Do you know of some good articles, tutorials, tips, Web sites, books, or other resources related to office space, ergonomics, office design? Recommendations are welcome and encouraged!
On this page:
- Workspace and Office Ergonomics Articles, Information, and Standards
- Articles, Exercises, and Tools for Computer-Related Injuries and Prevention
Also within Creating Your Office Workspace:
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Workspace and Office Ergonomics Articles, Information, and Standards
Having a comfortable and pleasant work environment is a good step toward working productively. Fortunately there is increasingly more information and awareness about the importance of a comfortable workspace, especially ergonomically designed office furniture, equipment, accessories, and office workspaces. I've listed some of the articles to help get your creative wheels turning for designing, creating a great ergonomically designed office, workspace.
Be sure to also check out the other page in this section, Ergonomic Workspace Solutions, Ergonomic Office Furniture, Accessories, Resources.
Workspace and Office Ergonomics Articles and Information
- 5 Tips for Using a Laptop Computer
Topics cover un-ergonomic laptop design, laptop user types, laptop posture, laptop dimensions, laptop weight. Also provides links to articles on laptop bags, carrying cases. [Article/tutorial dated 10/16/2004, by Professor Alan Hedge, for CUErgo, Cornell University Ergonomics Web.] - An Attempt to DeMystify All Those Chair Adjustability Options
Helpful explanation of chair adjustments and how (or if) they matter. [Chris Grant, Ph.D., CPE, office-ergo.com.] - Arrangement of Work Materials
A short article on keeping your tools handy and how to plan your workspace. More articles and tips available at the site, too. By Galvin's Workspace Furniture. [Article by Galvin's Workspace Furniture.] - Ergonomic Guidelines for arranging a Computer Workstation - 10 steps for users
Thorough explanations and illustrations about setting up a good ergonomic work area by Cornell University's Ergonomic Web. [Guide by CUErgo, Cornell University Ergonomics Web.] - Feng Shui - Cures (for your office)
Tips for creating a balanced work area according to Feng Shui principles. [Article by A Circle of Light.] - Healthy Computing (IBM)
IBM's helpful and thorough section on ergonomic office space utilizes 3D imagery, illustration, and guidance, covering the entire workspace from top to bottom. [Guide by IBM/Lenova.] - Healthy Computing's Buyer's Guide
This guide can help you learn about important features to look for, what's helpful, and what's a scam with ergonomic office furniture and accessories. [Guide by Healthy Computing, Inc.] - Healthy Computing's Office Ergonomic Setup Tips
Excellent section devoted to tips on how to set up an ergonomic office space. Individual tutorials go into detail about proper ergonomic setup, positioning, and usage of keyboards, mouse /pointing devices, computer monitor /display, desk chairs and footrests, document holders, phones, desks, and lighting. [Tutorial series by Healthy Computing, Inc.] - The ChiefHomeOfficer's Do-It-Yourself Home Office Design Kit
by Jeffery D. Zbar. Series of articles and a helpful chart with helpful points about creating a pleasant environment in which to work. He tosses in lots of great ideas to help you explore possibilities that will work best for your own office and space. [Articles by Jefferey D. Zbar.] - Laptop Ergonomics
Great article that goes into quite a bit of detail about using laptops, and covers potential pitfalls, tips and fixes to make your laptop use more ergonomic, and the types of products and accessories available to help make your laptop use more ergonomic - such as glare filters, document holders, external keyboards and mice, laptop stands, ergonomic carrying bags, and more. [Article dated 2002 by Healthy Computing, Inc.] - Laptop Ergonomics and Tips on using Laptop Computers
Topics covered: Ergonomic problems inherent with laptops; What to do: recommendations and tips; Resources to help you with laptop setup and accessories. [Article/tutorial dated 10/11/2005 by MIT Information Services and Technology.] - Pros and Cons of “Ergonomic” Office Equipment
This article discusses what to watch out for with a wide range of ergonomic products, such as wrist rests, keyboard trays, alternative keyboards, mice, monitor arms, glare screens, document stands, lighting, and more. [Chris Grant, Ph.D., CPE, office-ergo.com.] - Seating
A short article with illustrations about good seating at a desk. More articles and tips available at the site, too. [Article by Galvin's Workspace Furniture.] - UCLA Ergonomics: Quick ErgoInfo
UCLA has provided a very helpful section on office ergonomics and injuries (eyes, neck, back, arms and wrist), and how to set up your office (back rest, chair, foot rest, input device, keyboard tray, monitor, table, wrist rest). [Article by The Typing Injury FAQ Web site, provided by CTD Resource Network, Inc.]
Ergonomic Office Products
Recommended by WebsiteTips.com
See more Ergonomic Office Products via Ergonomic Workspace Solutions, Office Furniture, Accessories, and Resources.
Ergonomic Workplace Standards
Standards are everywhere, including for ergonomic workspaces!
- ANSI/BIFMA Safety and Performance Standards
You can order any of the standards documents directly from BIFMA, which include ergonomic requirements for office work spaces. [Web site: bifma.org.] - The Ultimate Test for Fit (PDF)
Companion document to the new G1-2002 Ergonomic Guidelines, explaining in easy-to-understand terms the details behind the new ergonomics guidelines. [Web site: bifma.org.]
Articles, Exercises, and Tools for Computer-Related Injuries and Prevention
Below are links to articles about specific computer-related injuries, such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) and Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI), and their prevention. Also included are links to exercises, exercise tools, and other helpful tools for helping and preventing computer-related injuries.
Articles about Specific Computer-Related Injuries and Prevention
- Basic Work Habits to Reduce Eye Strain
Helpful tips on how to reduce eyestrain - checklists on office setup, healthy computing. Good source for information here. [Article/tutorial by Dr. Jeffrey Anshel, O.D., Visual Ergonomics Specialist, for Healthy Computing.] - An Ergonomics Overview
Great overview of potential computer-related injuries and their prevention. Covers tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, circulation, and more. For prevention, there's a discussion of proper seating and desk arrangements, keyboard position, job stress, control factors, general health, and more. Also included are links to several more related articles at the site. [Article/tutorial by Onsight Office Ergonomics.] - Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Thorough article about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, how to prevent it, how it's typically treated, and links to more information. [Article by The Typing Injury FAQ Web site, provided by CTD Resource Network, Inc.] - MIT's RSI Information Page
Helpful information, tutorials, software, more. [Articles by MIT Information Services and Technology.] - Repetitive Strain Injuries - The Hidden Cost of Computing
Excellent article about RSI, its symptoms, treatment, and resources to more information. [Article dated 05/1997 by Andy King, WebReference.com.]
Exercises for Computer Users
Please note that it's always important to check with your physician, physical therapist, or other expert before trying any exercises.
- Exercises you can do at your desk
Instructions and photos of simple exercises that you can do at your desk to help prevent injuries. [Article by MIT Information Services and Technology.] - Eye Stretches
Two different exercises explained (palming, refocus routine) in this helpful tutorial on helping to reduce eyestrain and related symptoms. [Article/tutorial by Healthy Computing.] - Preventing and Healing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome & Repetitive Stress Injuries
by Helpful exercises with instructions and illustrations. [Article by Ellen Serber, illustrations by Daniel Will-Harris.] - Stretches and Exercises
Exercises for computer users with illustrations for your arms, wrists, and hands, neck and shoulders, back, and eyes. [Articles dated 2001 by Stretching Inc. for Healthy Computing.]
Exercise Tools and Other Tools to Help with Computer-Related Injuries and Prevention
- Buying Guide to Hand Exercisers
A descriptive listing of a variety of hand exercises to strengthen your hands and help with RSI, CTS, and other pain. [Buying guide by B Independent.] - Computer & Desk Stretches
Book, chart, card, handout sheets, software, by stretching.com. [Products by Stretching Inc..] - Eggsercizer®
A small exercise ball for the hand, often recommended by physical therapists and doctors. [Created by Magister Corporation.]
Web Sites or Web Site Sections about Computer-Related Injuries and Prevention
- Healthy Computing Resource Library
Tips for preventing computer injuries, information about computer-related injuries, links to more information. [Resource by WorkPace.] - OSHA: Ergonomics
OSHA has provided ergonomics information and studies about injuries and their causes, recognition, prevention, and training for ergonomic solutions. [Web site section part of OSHA Web site.] - The Complete Guide to the Alexander Technique
An entire site devoted to information and links about removing muscle tension via the Alexander Technique, whether from computer use, playing an instrument, or daily life. [Web site by Robert and Anne Rickover.] - The Typing Injury FAQ
A helpful resource site for repetitive strain injuries, prevention, coping, and assistive products to prevent or reduce the risk of injuries. [Web site: The Typing Injury FAQ Web site, provided by CTD Resource Network, Inc.] - Workspace Resources: Ergonomics
Web site section devoted to office ergonomics. Articles and guides, professional organizations, ergonomic solutions by design, and more. [Web site section: Workspace Resources.]