We are all going through a great deal of change right now. Many of us have made the transition to a work from home arrangement, and are learning how to adjust to our new working environment. As we adjust to these changes, we are exposed to a variety of new challenges.
While there's a lot of uncertainty and stress around us right now, there is one important thing we have the ability to change… our home office setup!
Working at your kitchen table on a hard wooden chair? Cozying up on your couch with your laptop on your lap? Does either of these sound like you?
Working without the proper ergonomic setup is an occupational hazard as it significantly increases your risk of developing a number of musculoskeletal conditions, such as lower back pain, neck pain and repetitive strain injuries.
Even though you may not have access to a fancy ergonomic office chair or sit-stand desk - or any good desk for that matter – doesn’t mean the environment can’t be modified for the better. It’s crucial that remote workers take the necessary steps to ensure they have the best possible home office setup in place with the resources they have access to.
PSHSA has a number of solutions to address your needs. To get started, check out this free course: eOfficeErgo: Ergonomics eLearning for Office Workers. This online training program was developed by the Institute for Work and Health (IWH) and was reviewed by an international scientific panel of academic and practicing ergonomists. By the end of this eLearning module, learners will be able to:
- Discuss the risks associated with computer work.
- Explain the importance of varying your work posture.
- Determine the key factors in maximizing your “comfort zone”.
- Evaluate your office work environment.
- Apply ergonomics strategies to the arrangement of your work environment.
- Explain the importance of healthy computing habits, including rest breaks.
SETH SOBEL
Manager, Occupational Therapy
Public Services Health & Safety Association
