Ergonomics

• Neutral neck, not bent forward or back
• Upright posture
  
• Elbows directly below shoulders; ≥90⁰ angles in elbows
• Top of monitor(s) even with tops of eyebrows
• Keyboard even with elbows
• Neutral wrists (not bent back or forward), curvy fingers
• Centered in front of keyboard (“J” key even with your midsection) and monitor(s)
• Keyboard and mouse close enough that arms are not extended
• Mouse next to keyboard, on same level
  

• Greater than or equal to 90⁰ angles in knees and hips
• Feet flat on the floor or on a footboard
• Room for a tennis ball/orange between backs of calves and edge of chair
• Adequate lumbar support
• Arms that do not get in the way of typing but are only rested on during breaks from typing

Back injuries can be very painful. They can affect everything you do, and can be a long-term or lifetime disability.

If you lift or move anything, follow these tips to lift safely:

• How far will you have to carry the load?
• Is the way clear of clutter, cords, slippery areas, overhangs, stairs, curbs, or uneven surfaces?
• Are there handles or places on the load to hold it easily? Is it a standard shape or is it irregularly shaped? If it’s an irregular shape, can you put it in a box or bin that is easier to carry?
• Will there be doors that are closed?
• Once you pick up the load, will you be able to see over it?
• Can the load be disassembled, carried in pieces, then reassembled?
• Can you lift and move this by yourself? Do you need help? Can you use a cart or hand truck?
• Are there tools/devices available to help, and do you know how to use them?

• If you are doing a two-person lift, communicate when you lift, move and place the load!
• Start the lift by putting your feet close to the object. Get a firm footing.
• Center your body over your feet.
• Avoid lifting over your head, if possible.
• Squat down like a professional weightlifter, bending your knees. Keep your back straight or slightly arched. Your legs should do the lifting, not your back!

• Keep the load as close to you as possible.
• Keep the load between your shoulders and knees, your “Power Zone”.
• Use your feet to change directions, never twist your back.
• Keep your head up and look straight ahead, not down.
• Keep your back straight or slightly arched.
• Beware of stairs, obstacles and uneven floors!
• When using a cart, push rather than pull. Secure the load to the cart

• Opposite of lifting the load
• Position yourself where you want to set the load.
• Squat down. Let your legs to do the work, not your back.
• Do not twist your body while setting down a load, and keep your head up.
• Once the load is where you want it, release your grip. Do not release your grip on a load until it is secure.
• If someone is helping you, coordinate putting the load down.