What Is Ergonomics And Why Is It Important? A Certified Professional Ergonomist Tells You

Dan Odell is a Certified Professional Ergonomist working on mice and keyboards at Microsoft and here he sheds light on common issues related to ergonomics.

One of the misconceptions about ergonomics that he speaks of is that many people seem to think that ergonomics comes in to play once there has been an injury and something that you worry about only when you have to.

In fact, ergonomics is about prevention of injury; it also encompasses other aspects of work such as helping people enjoy their work and staying healthy.

He clarifies that the term ‘ergonomically designed’ should, ideally mean that the device or task matches the capabilities of a given person.

Referring to a study that found “more than 50% of computer users reported Musculoskeletal Symptoms during the first year after starting a new job” Odell remarks that he is surprised more people don’t take computer pain more seriously. It is therefore important to give attention to one’s long term comfort to avoid injury and pain.

Odell offers resources for further information about computer comfort:

• National Institute of Health,
• HP’s safety and comfort guide,
• Microsoft Hardware comfort page