G1+General+Ergonomics

Ergonomics and Health

 * [[image:ergonomic_keyboard.jpg width="352" height="352" caption="Ergonomic Keyboard"]] ||
 * Ergonomic Keyboard ||

Sometimes called Human Engineering, ergonomics is the science of designing work environments that enable people and things to interact efficiently and safely. Some injuries that can result from not working in an ergonomic environment are [|repetitive - stress injuries], such as [|Carpal tunnel syndrome]. So ergonomics aims to make work more comfortable and to reduce the risk of injuries. For example, if you were slouching in your chair while working on the computer, that would be ergonomically bad. If you were sitting up straight, that would be ergonomically good.
 * [[image:keyboard.jpg width="426" height="275" caption="Not so ergonomic keyboard"]] ||
 * Not so ergonomic keyboard ||

Today, many companies are embracing ergonomics, because a healthier employee = greater production and efficiency. Today, ergonomics is usually used to design work spaces for better efficiency and safety. (from work-related illnesses resulting from ergonomics hazards). There is an organization, called [|OSHA], that will develop guidelines for certain industries to reduce ergonomic injury. Ergonomic injury is, as OSHA says, described by the term "musculoskeletal disorders" or "MSDs." MSDs refers collectively to a group of injuries and illness that affect the musculoskeletal system.

Useful links: [|Usernomics:] - brief explanation of why we want ergonomics. [|Ergonomics and Health] - explains ergonomics, some explanation of OSHA and gives some guidelines for good ergonomics. [|OSHA - Ergonomics for Shipyards] - a guild line for shipyards that we can use as an example. [|FAQS about ergonomics] - it's exactly what the title says.