What is ergonomics?
What is ergonomics?
It is the study of the interactions between the individual, tasks, equipment and the environment.
Computer ergonomics
Ergonomics comes from the Greek words; ergo - work and nomics - to study, so basically ergonomics is the study of work. In the perfect working world this would translate to fitting the job to the worker, unfortunately that is not always possible in the working world. Everyone should make every possible effort to ensure that their computer work station is as ergonomically correct as possible. It will help prevent injury, and help make work more enjoyable and less like work.
Book an appointment
#1. Talk to your manager
If you are experiencing pain or difficulties when working at your computer this should be brought forward to the attention of your Manager to determine available options within your department.
#2. Workshops/training
There are two workshops offered by UBC Human Resources – Office Ergonomics:
- Ergo Your Office, and
- Introductions to Sit-Stand Desk
Register online at: www.hr.ubc.ca/wellbeing-benefits/workplace-health/ergonomics/training-workshops/
If you are interested in knowing more information about Sit-Stand desk, it is recommended that you take the workshop as UBC HR has some of the equipment on hand that you can test out.
#3. Assessment
You have two options, contact one of the Sauder Ergo Representatives for a 1-hour assessment appointment, or email to ergonomics.info@ubc.ca to register for an online assessment.
Sauder Ergo Representatives:
Kim Fama
Debra Harris
Michael Rankin
Chunhua Wu
Imogene Huxham (Robson)
Please refer to the UBC Human Resources / Office Ergonomics web page for more detailed information.
www.hr.ubc.ca/wellbeing-benefits/workplace-heath/ergonomics/office-ergonomics
Set up a workstation
12 tips for an ergonomic computer workstation
1. Use a good chair with a dynamic chair back and sit back
2. Top of monitor casing 2-3" (5-8cm) above eye level
3. No glare on screen, use an optical glass anti-glare filter where needed
4. Sit at arms length from monitor
5. Feet on floor or stable footrest
6. Use a document holder, preferably in-line with the computer screen
7. Wrists flat and straight in relation to forearms to use keyboard/mouse/input device
8. Arms and elbows relaxed close to body
9. Center monitor and keyboard in front of you
10. Use a negative tilt keyboard tray with an upper mouse platform or downward tiltable platform adjacent to keyboard
11. Use a stable work surface and stable (no bounce) keyboard tray
12. Take frequent short breaks (microbreaks)
UBC ergonomics
Visit our new website and Ergo Your Office Guide for help in setting up your workstation.
Abigail Overduin, CCPE, MSc. Ergonomics
Ergonomics Program Lead I Human Resources I Workplace Health Services
The University of British Columbia I Vancouver
6th Floor, 6190 Agronomy Rd, V6T 1Z3
Phone: 604.822.9040 | Fax: 604.822.0572