WORKSTATION FOR UNIVERSITY FACULTY – AN ERGONOMIC VIEW

Abstract

Ergonomics deals with work performance, emphasizing on worker safety and productivity. It deals with the scientific study of
human capabilities and limitations in relation to work demands. Ergonomics is a crucial issue nowadays because with the
advancement in technology, all tasks in most organizations, especially universities, are completed in a sedentary position and
on the computer. If daily tasks are not carried out properly without considering posture and duration, there will be slow development
of injuries. A person starts making adjustment to body instead of work environment, which further predisposes to
injuries. When ergonomically-designed workstations are not utilized, it leads to Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) and Musculoskeletal
disorders (MSD).
Applying ergonomics at any organization helps to make the workplace comfortable and efficient for the worker, hence, it is
important to introduce ergonomic workstations at universities. Usually, most individuals are not concerned about the posture
in which they sit and work. Either, they are unaware about good posture habits or may not consider it a health-risk. When pain
is initially felt, it is ignored until severe symptoms begin to surface. Prolonged periods of work with the head or trunk bent puts
stress on them; hence, complaints arise over the time spend. Working with unsupported raised arm predisposes to shoulder
strain. Furthermore, factors that contribute to ergonomic injuries are: sitting in awkward postures by tilting head down or
forward, leaning forward, keeping wrist or elbow on hard surface. Chair height does not correspond with their popliteal height
- either it is low or high. Also, not using a document holder when working with computers or working continuously without
intervals - all these behaviors play a role in developing or accelerating the problems.