Introduction   Cheap tips for safe   computing Workspace Setup   Chairs and footrests   Monitor   Keyboard and mouse   Desktop layout   Lighting   Noise Preventative Measures   Caring for your eyes   Back problems   Adjusting your posture   Stretching at your desk   Reducing stress   Organizing your work   Ergonomic devices Health Concerns   Carpal tunnel syndrome   Repetitive strain injury   Eye strain Summary Checklist  Helpful Links

Summary Checklist Use this quick checklist to help customize your office to fit you and your work style. For more information on any topic, just click on its link. Your Workspace Adjust your chair's height; use a footrest if necessary. Position your monitor to avoid glare. Make sure you wrists are straight when you're at the keyboard; use a wrist rest if necessary. Your mouse should be within easy reach next to the keyboard. Your desk should be the right height for you and allow you enough leg room. The desk surface should have enough space for all your frequently used items to be in reach but should not be cluttered. The light in your office should be sufficient for you to easily read paper copy and see your monitor. You may need a separate desk lamp for papers. Be sure to adjust any lighting, whether natural or artificial, to avoid glare. If noise is a problem, use partitions, earplugs, or headphones playing music to block the noise. Meetings could be moved to other rooms instead of being held in open areas. Your Health Rest your eyes periodically to avoid eye strain. If you have frequent headaches or other eye strain symptoms, you may want to consider getting reading glasses to use at your computer, or text magnification software . Protect your back. Use adequate back support on your chair, face your station directly so you don't have to twist to use the computer, and use proper lifting technique. Be aware of your general posture. Be comfortable but also keep your head, neck, and back in alignment. Change positions periodically to avoid stiffness. Stretch from time to time to stay flexible and ease muscle tension. Organize your workspace and your time so you make the most effective use of both. Try to avoid repetition in your tasks and excessive reaching for frequently used objects. Consider using ergonomic devices to ease muscle strain. For example, a touch pad instead of a mouse may help those with arthritis, a back brace may help those with chronic back problems, text magnification may help those with vision impairments, etc. Be on the lookout for the symptoms of eye strain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and repetitive strain injury.