Ergonomics
Ergonomics is the study of the relationship between the worker and the work environment, including the workstation, equipment and the tasks performed. Through an ergonomics evaluation, there is an opportunity to reduce the probability of developing Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs). WMSDs are associated with work postures and movements, repetitiveness and pace of work, force of movements, vibration, and temperature.
Recommended guidelines:
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Hands, wrists, and forearms are straight, in-line and roughly parallel to the floor;
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Head is level or bent slightly forward, forward facing, and balanced;
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Shoulders are relaxed and upper arms hang normally at the side of the body;
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Elbows stay in close to the body and are bent between 90 and 120 degrees;
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Feet are fully supported by the floor or a footrest
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Back is fully supported with appropriate lumbar support when sitting;
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Knees are about the same height as the hips with the feet slightly forward; and
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Monitor is of 18 – 24 inches away from the user’s eyes and at eye level.
The State Office of Risk Management offers State employees the ability to request an ergonomic evaluation of their workstation at no cost to the agency.
To request an ergonomic evaluation, follow these steps:
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If a Workers' Compensation claim has been filed and an ergonomic evaluation is recommended, please complete the fillable Claim or Injury-Related Ergonomic Evaluation Request Form.
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If the request is not related to a claim, please complete the fillable ErgoPoint Request Form.
- Once the form has been received by our office, you will receive an email within three to five business days of the request with a web link and instructions on completing the Self-Assessment through ErgoPoint.
- After completing and submitting the online Self-Assessment, an email will be automatically sent to your agency's designated person, and our office.
- You will be contacted with additional instruction, advice, and/or personal evaluation from your agency's designated person and/or SORM, as necessary.
Resources on ergonomics:
OSHA - Evaluating your computer workstation
Email comments to: Risk Management
Related Links
State Risk Management Database Log-in