Straighten up! It’s National Ergonomics Month

Throughout the month of October, UF Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) is providing opportunities to learn more and participate in events designed to support your ergonomic wellbeing. Scan these tips to get started and visit the EH&S website to learn more.

• Assess your workstation configuration
• Check your posture: Head level and forward facing. Hands, wrists, and forearms flat as possible (not bent up or down). Back is fully supported with appropriate lumbar support when sitting. Feet fully supported by the floor or a footrest.
• Adjust to your chair: Push your hips as far back as they can go in the chair. Adjust the seat height so your feet are flat on the floor and your knees are equal to, or slightly lower than, your hips.
• Move the monitor: Your head should be level and not tilted up or down. Make sure the top of your computer monitor is at or slightly below eye height and at an arm’s length distance.
• Adjust your keyboard/mouse: Move the section of the keyboard that most frequently is used, in front of your body. Place the mouse as close as possible to the keyboard.
• Support your arms: An armrest essentially carries the weight of the arm so that the shoulders can ‘rest.’ Adjust the armrests so your shoulders are relaxed and elbows are at about a 90° angle while you are typing.
• Get up and move: Prolonged sitting can lead to pain and discomfort, so get up and move your body for a few minutes every half-hour.