Poor posture, workstation design, and associated work practices can gradually increase the risk of:
- Postural strain
- Visual strain
- Muscle and soft tissue injury
To protect against this risk Management should develop a Workstation Set-Up Checklist that should be completed on employment and annually thereafter by workers to assist in the identification of work tasks involving workstation hazards, assessment of risk arising from workstation hazards and guide the determination of appropriate risk controls
Workstation Hazard Control Measures
Depending upon the nature of the workstation hazard and associated risk, potential control measures may include:
1. Review Workstation and Equipment Design
- Displays and controls should be designed with workers, tasks, and equipment needs in mind.
- Well-planned workstation layout optimizes performance and reduces postural and visual strain.
Key Points to Note:
- Design workstations for comfortable and varied postures, especially for tasks requiring prolonged or repetitive postures.
2. Equipment Placement
- Place frequently used equipment, controls, work items, and documents directly in front of workers, within easy reach, to avoid stretching and twisting.
Key Points to Note:
- The location and type of equipment influence the range of movements performed.
3. Provide Adjustable Workstation Equipment
- Offer adjustable furniture (e.g., desks, chairs, and keyboards) to accommodate the diverse physical characteristics of workers and ensure safe postures.
Key Points to Note:
- Adjustability of workstation equipment affects the postures adopted by workers.
4. Design of Displays and Controls
- Design, select, and label displays and controls to ensure workers can operate equipment safely while maintaining proper posture.
Key Points to Note:
- Displays should be placed where they can be easily seen.
- Poor lighting increases the risk of awkward postures as workers might lean forward to read screens.
- Ensure sufficient surface area on the workstation for equipment and documents.
5. Provision of Adjustable Workstations
- Workstations (desks, chairs, footstools) should be adjustable to match the worker’s body dimensions and work activity needs.
Key Points to Note:
- A fixed-height desk with an adjustable chair and footstool may suffice for most work environments. However, in some cases, adjustable-height desks may be necessary.
6. Provide Adequate Training and Information
- Workers should receive information, instruction, and training on ergonomic work practices and proper adjustment of workstations and equipment.
Key Points to Note:
- Muscular injuries can increase if the workstation is not adjusted to fit the worker’s needs.
- In desk-sharing environments, the risk of workstation misadjustment increases due to lack of training, time pressure, or distractions.
- Adequate time must be provided to adjust workstations before starting work.
7. Ensure Proper Supervision and Management
- Supervisors should oversee the proper implementation and maintenance of workstation adjustments and ergonomic practices.
Additional Supportive Measures
To further assist in maintaining ergonomic workstations and practices, consider the following:
- Allow time for workers in desk-sharing environments to adjust equipment before starting work.
- Use computer screen prompts, posters, or other reminders to reinforce ergonomic practices.
- Encourage workers to vary their activities and postures to avoid static positions for long periods.
- Factor in individual preferences, physical capabilities, and disabilities when designing workstations.
- Regularly inspect, review, and maintain workstations using the annual Workstation Set-Up Checklist.
Management Responsibilities
Management must review and implement the recommended control measures to:
- Eliminate workstation hazards where reasonably practicable.
- Where elimination is not feasible, reduce the risk as much as reasonably possible.
By following these guidelines, organisations can ensure a safer, more comfortable working environment that promotes productivity and reduces the risk of injury from poor workstation design.