When you are sitting for most of the day setting up your workstation correctly is important to help reduce your risk of injury. When your body is stressed by an awkward posture or repeated movement your musculoskeletal system is impacted.
Sit Comfortably
If your workstation is ergonomically sound then your neck is in line with your back and not bent back or down or contorted, your arms are by your side and not extended out to the side of your body, your wrists and hands are flat and not bent up or down or sideways, and your spine is straight and not twisted. An ergonomic workstation will help you sit comfortably at a computer, even over long stints.
Inflammatory and Degenerative Conditions
Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD) include a range of inflammatory and degenerative conditions known as Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) or Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTD). These can be acute or chronic. The longer you ignore those aches and pains the worse the prospect of a full recovery and getting back on with your life unhindered.
Working from Home
When you are working from home sometimes it is not possible to attain the correct positions. This is where you may need the assistance of an Occupational Therapist to provide guidance and suggest modifications and in some cases recommend equipment.
How Active OHS Can Assist
Our team of professionals can assist and have a wealth of experience in this space. We have performed thousands of Ergonomic Assessments in workplaces and homes across a range of employers from small operators to large government Departments.
Get a quote for assessing your workstation – Click HERE
About the author
Kerry Foster
Kerry Foster graduated with a B. Social Work in 1980 and since 1995 has been the Director of Active OHS a WorkCover and Comcare Accredited Workplace Rehabilitation Provider. Active OHS is an Occupational Rehabilitation Centre in Sydney NSW that also offers Work Health & Safety Training and Consulting, Ergonomic and Medico-legal Assessments as well as Outsourced Return To Work Co-ordinators.