Designing an Ergonomically Sound Home Work Station
In recent years, much thought and work has gone into designing computer workplace stations that promote and support healthy postures whilst minimizing stressors on our bodies. With the advent of COVID-19, many of us are now finding ourselves working from home, throwing together work stations using whatever furniture and equipment is available.
Computer work requires continuous periods of “static” or unchanging postures, which our bodies are not designed for. In addition, while our shoulders, necks and backs are held in strained positions, our hands are required to perform constant, repetitive motions while typing and using a mouse.
The following articles and instructional videos are designed to help you think about the stressors involved in computer work and provide tips for designing your own ergonomically sound work station at home.
Designing an Ergonomically Sound Work-from-Home Environment
by Karen Jacobs, a Sargent College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences clinical professor of occupational therapy and program director of the online post-professional doctorate in occupational therapy
10 Ergonomic Do’s and Don’ts for Those Now Working from Home
by Carolyn Herkenham, a Boston University Environmental Health & Safety senior specialist and industrial hygienist
7 Ergonomic Tips to Help Save Your Aching Neck and Back While Working from Home
WBUR’s All Things Considered interview with Carolyn Herkenham, a Boston University Environmental Health & Safety senior specialist and industrial hygienist
BU Environmental Health and Safety Ergonomic Resources
If you need additional guidance setting up your work station, please contact Carolyn Herkenham, the Environment Health & Safety Ergonomic Program Senior Specialist, at 617-358-3776 or visit their website.
If you are experiencing pain related to your computer work, please contact Ruth Landau-Hoffeld, MSN, ANP, BC, the Ergonomic Nurse Specialist, at 617-353-6630 or buohc@bu.edu.
From BU Employee Employee Wellness newsletter 6/12/2020