What is Ergonomics?

A Comfort Zone for People

Ergonomics is the science of work-removing barriers to quality, productivity and human performance by fitting products, tasks, and environments to people. Ergonomic design is all about making the work environment and specific job tasks fit the worker's need for comfort, health and safety. In other words, "making objects work for the person" rather than "making the person fit the objects."

Get Physically Fit

Make your workplace work for you by ensuring your chair, desk, computer, phone and lighting all fit the needs of your body's six most important areas:

  • Eyes
  • Neck
  • Shoulders
  • Wrist
  • Back
  • Legs

Your comfort is also determined by how you protect each one of these areas by assuming correct ergonomic postures.

Keep Yourself Ergonomically Correct

Use this list to remind yourself to pay attention to how you're sitting. Post it near your desk where you interact with your computer and other equipment. (See related article: "Make Yourself Comfortable" for tips on how to use ergonomics in these areas.)

  • Line of Sight
  • Neck Posture
  • Arm Posture
  • Back Support
  • Leg Support
  • Foot Position
  • Glare
  • Viewing Distance
  • Work Surface
  • Mouse Position
  • Keyboard
  • Leg Space