Ergonomics

Ergonomic solutions can improve employee safety, comfort, and productivity. Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) staff are available upon request to provide ergonomic guidance, training, and assessments.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) defines ergonomics as the science of fitting workplace conditions and job demands to the capabilities of the working population. In general terms, ergonomics is about fitting the work/task to the person rather than fitting the person to the work/task.

Ergonomic risk factors include:

  • Awkward postures - Positioning body parts away from their neutral position (or a natural relaxed position)
  • Contact pressure – Prolonged contact between a body part and an object
  • Excessive force or forceful exertion – Physical effort applied to a body part to perform a task
  • Repetitive motion – Repeatedly performing a motion
  • Static postures – Holding a body part in a single position over a long period of time

Request an Assessment

Ergonomic assessments are available for employees working in both office and non-office positions. 

Web-Based, Onsite, and Remote Options

Employees can select from the office ergonomic options below:

Web-Based Training and Self Assessment Program
This is recommended for new employees, employees with limited knowledge of ergonomics, and those who are not having any physic concerns. The ergonomic coordinator will review the results of the self-assessment and follow up with the employee when further assistance is needed. 
Onsite at Work Locations on Campus
The ergonomic coordinator will meet with the employee in their workspace. 
Remote or Off Campus
Employees who work remotely or off campus can meet with the ergonomic coordinator on a video conferencing platform. 

Non-office assessments are typically done onsite with the employee to address specific job duties.

Request An Assessment

Ergonomic Lending Library

EHS maintains a lending library with equipment, hardware, and furniture available for employee trial use of up to 30 days. This provides an opportunity to try something, such as a chair or keyboard, to ensure it is a good fit before purchasing. Lending library items include:

Request a Lending Library Item

Information and Resources

General Ergonomics

Laboratory Ergonomics

Office Ergonomics

Stretches and Exercises

Contacts