Ergonomics in Technology

Ergonomics is the process of designing or aligning places and things so that they fit the people who use those, reducing the risk of injury (Edwards, Fortingo & Franklin, 2022).

It is important to study about this matter as prolonged exposure to spaces that are not in correct positions may cause health problems. 

Advantages of taking precautions for ergonomics:

• Less chance of getting injuries

• Working/learning becomes more productive 

• Morale improvements

• Reduced absenteeism

• Increases motivation and satisfaction

There are 3 types of ergonomics; Physical, cognitive and organizational ergonomics. Following are some of the health problems associated with each type.

Physical: Some of the problems include stains on muscles, bones and tendons, eyes and other organs causing discomforts, pain or swelling. Some of the factors causing this include incorrect posture in sitting/bending/lifting objects, prolonged working time without taking sufficient breaks, applying extensive force, pushing and lifting.

Solutions: Learn and use the correct sitting postures, avoid bending more than required, and have proper seating arrangements [guide in the pictures and video below]. In addition to this it is important to take frequent breaks and do quick small exercises to relieve the tension on muscles. 

Cognitive: Major issues that may look minor are caused which are related to the brain. Three main cognitive strains are disruptions, interruptions and information overload. This affects attention span, memory, sensations and perceptions (Kalakoski et al., 2019). 

Solutions: Practice standardized principles to follow, minimize disturbances caused by sound/ light by adjusting the settings, block interrupting pop-ups, organize data in a way easy to find and access, use of user-friendly software and learning how to use applications beforehand. 

Organizational: Problems caused by structures, systems, policies and processes. The problems related to physical and cognitive ergonomics can also be caused by organizational ergonomics as improper arrangements of the structure contributes to both. Some of the complications are poorly designed workstations, lighting, sound, workload, lack of training, flexibility, inadequate communication, collaboration, management and unclear/inconsistency in policies. 

Solutions: Design proper working environment or bring necessary amendments needed such as seating, lighting and working hours. Distribute work accordingly by collaborating and building proper communication within management. Make work flexible through teleworking or remote working. Establishment of policies that benefit everyone (Werezak, 2021). 

Computer lab at Maldives National University 

Getting the physical, cognitive, and organizational ergonomics in working/learning environments doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. With the available resources proper adjustments can be made to ensure well being. There are plenty of things we can do for ourselves. Check out the video below to try some simple techniques!

References

Edwards, C., Fortingo, N., & Franklin, E. (2022). Ergonomics. National Library of Medicine: National Center for Biotechnology Information

Kalakoski, V., Henelius, A., Oikarinen, E., Ukkonen, A., & Puolamäki, K. (2019). Cognitive Ergonomics for Data Analysis. Association for Computing Machinery.

Werezak, L. (2021, December 22). Physical, Cognitive, and Organizational Ergonomics

Further links: 
https://osha.oregon.gov/OSHAPubs/ergo/ergoadvantages.pdf 
https://medicinevolution.com/how-many-types-of-ergonomics-are-there/