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Introduction
Ergonomics
Guide for University Faculty and Staff
A
University resource providing information about ergonomic principals, legal
considerations, frequently asked questions and where you can go for help.
Please
go to the website at http://www.umich.edu/~oseh/ergonomics.html
Library Ergonomics
Task Force Report
INTRODUCTION
Descriptions of the generic "ideal" ergonomic workstation equipment and space
focus on the individual and her/his relationship to this equipment. They describe
how one should be seated in terms that talk about position of arms, legs, feet,
back, distance, etc. while one is seated, working at a computer, and with accompanying
material. There are, of course, obvious differences in the size, shape, and
personal needs of individuals and these differences translate into either different
equipment or into equipment that can be adjusted to accommodate differences.
Equipment shared by several individuals may not be able to accommodate the entire
range of needs.
Failure to provide, or educate about, the proper ergonomic equipment, space,
and work schedule/behavior can result in injury. Injuries can result in loss
of work and permanent disability; they are caused by:
- excessive repetition (e.g. keyboarding for a long period of time, even when seated properly)
- sustained static exertion (e.g. sitting for a long time, even in the proper position)
- excessive stress (e.g.lifting heavy books while seated, reaching for something)
- glare or improper lighting (e.g. bright overhead lights or window light shining on screen)
- awkward postures (e.g.sitting too low, back not supported properly)
- localized mechanical stresses (e.g. wrists resting on edge of worktable).
Injuries to wrists, arms, shoulders, upper and lower back, and eyes can result. The above list of causes are not all equipment or space problems. Injuries can be caused by working too long at a task without a break or not knowing the proper way to sit at a workstation. And individual differences mean that some people will have problems even with the best equipment, while others will experience no problems ever, sitting slumped in front of their computer keyboard.
Sixty-four percent of Library staff responding to our survey, (142 out of 222 surveys were returned), reported one or more problems ranging from mild to severe. [See Appendix E for a summary and detailed report of the Survey.] Eye, back, wrist, neck problems were reported by 26%-51% of the staff who described problems. Fifty-two percent felt that the work area space was inadequate and caused problems. Many people were unaware of accessories that might alleviate their problems. Nearly 75% of staff responding reported that they shared computer workstations and often did not have access to adaptive equipment when they needed it.
The survey results reveal that a substantial percentage of staff are already experiencing problems caused by inadequate work station equipment and space, lack of knowledge of how to avoid problems, and perceived work schedules that keep them working at a task for a long period of time. The literature that we've read indicates that these types of problems do not disappear on their own and can lead to permanent disabilities.
April 14, 1995
Amy Marino (Chair), Cara Slavens, Kathleen Sommers, Phyllis Valentine, Laura Woolley
[Introduction]
[Recommendation Summary]
[Discussion of Recommendations]
[Appendices]
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