What is Ergonomics?
The literal translation of the word ergonomics is “the study of work”. More specifically, ergonomics is the science of fitting workplace conditions and job demands to the capabilities of the working population. Ergonomics is an important consideration for all personnel at WCM, regardless of whether they work in offices, laboratories, clinical spaces, or other areas where injury can occur.
An optimal ergonomic setup limits repetitive motion, overexertion, contact stress, and awkward positioning or twisting. Proper ergonomic conditions can both increase work productivity and satisfaction, as well as prevent musculoskeletal injuries to workers. Poor ergonomic conditions can be a problem in many types of work including administrative, clinical and laboratory jobs.
There are many ways to address ergonomics in your workstation. As every person is different, there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to ergonomics. Therefore, the best way to attend to ergonomics issues is to schedule an ergonomics evaluation with EHS. During this assessment, a member of the EHS staff will spend approximately 20-30 minutes with you in your workstation determining if there are any ergonomic risk factors present, as well as the best ways to address those factors.
Remember that ergonomic evaluations are suggestions. You are not mandated to follow EHS recommendations for ergonomics, and the resources in this webpage contain information that you may choose to use to help set up your workstation. However, this information can be helpful to you in setting up your work environment.
Schedule an Ergonomics Evaluation
If you are having issues with your workstation setup, or simply would like to optimize your work setup, click above to schedule an ergonomics evaluation.
Workforce Health and Safety
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to your work setup, you should visit Workforce Health and Safety. Click the link above for more information.
ADA Reasonable Accommodation Request
The ADA Reasonable Accommodation Request is a collaborative effort between Cigna, you, the Employee Relations Office, and your department to discuss the need for accommodation, as well as identify possible accommodation solutions. Employees with a documented medical need may qualify for an ADA Reasonable Accommodation Request.
If you have been diagnosed by a physician as requiring additional ergonomics resources for your workstation, contact Human Resources for an ADA Reasonable Accommodation Request by clicking the above link.
Additional Resources
Office Work Tips
If you spend time working in an office, here is some helpful information.
- Computer Workstation Setup and Use Tips
- Ergonomic Stretches
- Online Computer Ergonomics Training- Coming Soon
- CDC- Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Disorders Data
Laboratory Work Tips
If you spend time working in a laboratory, here is some helpful information.
Clinical Work Tips
If you work in clinical or patient care settings, here is some helpful information.
- OSHA Hospital e-Tool
- Thomas Waters- Introduction to Ergonomics for Healthcare Workers
- Ergonomics for Healthcare Environments
- Proper Patient Lifting Techniques for Nurses
Remote Work Tips
Animal Care Work Tips
If you are a member of the WCM RARC staff or are involved in animal care, here is some helpful information.
- Laboratory Animal Ergonomic Risk Factors and Solutions
- Animal Research Facilities Ergonomics Design Guidelines- UC Berkeley
- Ergonomics Study of Animal Care Positions at the University of California
Material Handling Work Tips
If your job tasks involve material handling or manual equipment work, here is some helpful information.
- Ergonomic Stretches
- Online Materials Handling Training- Coming Soon