Attention to ergonomics could have a direct impact on your well being and general health, which is why creating an effective ergonomic checklist may be beneficial. To design an ergonomic checklist that works best for you, consider the essential tools and instruments you use at work and at home. Making simple changes could help you to feel better at the end of the day, so you should begin buy doing an ergonomics assessment. Make a list of your basic tasks, from work-related activities to home chores, and jot down any ergonomic products that might be beneficial for you.
As you begin this project, categorize your checklist. Starting with your body, make a list of all areas from head to toe that cause you concern. Any body part that has become an issue should be highlighted. Include every area, starting from the head, neck, and shoulders. Ultimately, the list should be completed with the focus being your feet.
Start with an ergonomics workstation. If you work in an office setting or at a desk for several hours a day, you might suffer from back strain if your desk is not the correct height for you. Consider lowering or rising the height of the desk to the height that feels most comfortable to you.
Working in a meal-preparation setting also may cause stress on the neck, shoulders, or back. This could be in a restaurant or at another food service job. If the station counter is too low, and you are constantly crouching, your neck will feel strained. This could also put considerable stress on the back. Likewise, if you are having to repeatedly stretch your arm out to reach for items, this should be addressed on your ergonomic checklist.
You should eliminate repetitive motion that is not in proper sync with your body's natural alignment. If your workstation does not allow you to reach for items without over-extending your arm, this needs to be on your ergonomic checklist. If you don't correct this, you could suffer an injury, such as pulled muscles and tendinitis.
While going through items on your ergonomic checklist, don't forget to acquire a good ergonomic chair. You can probably find a suitable one at any office supply store. Doing some research online may also help you choose a chair that is good for your needs. It's important to remember that what feels good to one person might not necessarily be the best choice for everyone.
While compiling your ergonomic checklist, don't overlook ways to make life easier at home. To avoid wrist problems that could be associated with repetitive motion stress, a gardener might choose tools that are ergonomically designed. This may include cutters, shears, and knives with a special handle and easy grip, designed for left-handed or right-handed use.
A good ergonomic checklist will also include another crucial, yet often overlooked, rule. Maintaining proper posture is essential. Your checklist should show a reminder to always stand straight without slouching or rounding of the shoulders. This could reduce shoulder and neck tension.
Do not neglect your feet. Wearing supportive and comfortable shoes, especially if you are standing for long periods at a time, should be a priority for your ergonomic plan. Wearing poor-fitting shoes may be the cause of back soreness and fatigue, so take the time to select the perfect pair for your needs.