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* Contact Lens Solution Profile * Assessing Pain * Bells & Whistles * Ergonomic Eye - Q
* Ergonomic Program Checklist * Factnology * Lower Back Pain
* What are the HIDDEN COSTS of RSI * Refresh Rates
* Right Angle Keyboard Tray * Transition Lens * Ultraviolet Light * Vascular Headaches
* MousingAround * Chairs in the computer workplace.. * Top Ten Violations at North Pole
* On the road protection * Violence in the Workplace * Input devices
* Observational screening for chemical/drug use * Fatigue * Color Blindness
* A Question of Inches
Kids and computers - It's a hot topic in the news. But much of what you read, see, and hear in todays press focuses on one concern. That concern is children's access to violent and undesirable material on the Web. My article spotlights how kids use a computer. Specifically I hope to raise your awareness of the physical concerns when kids use their computers at home and school.
As an ergonomic expert; my specialty is to address the physical demands of your computer work . My responsibility is to make sure you are healthy, comfortable, and free from suffering a repetitive stress injury while on the job. The problem facing children lies in the environments kids use computers.
The home computer office and most of todays classrooms lack many of the protective ergonomic measures. The company you work for has provided in your office a specialized seating, drop keyboard trays, wrist rests and more! All these features are designed to minimize the repetitive forces which can injure you. But these same features are missing at home and school.
Both grade and high schools all across America are expanding computer use in the classroom. Beginning with 1st grade kids are expected to know how to use a computer. In grade 2, kids must understand specific computer programs. Grade 3 students (age 8) are using word processing applications. The students are required to have basic keyboard skills by grade 4. Assignments based upon Web research are common in later grades. Then at home how much time does your children spend using the computer for homework, entertainment ( games ), and surfing? Whether you are 6 or 60 using a computer places certain definable stresses upon the human body. Unnecessary bending, reaching, twisting, excessive pressure on the back,neck, shoulders, arms, wrists, and hands ultimately lead to physical difficulties.
Let me explain it this way:
For every inch your child's head is bent forward over the keyboard, the weight and force acting on your neck & shoulders doubles.
After just 4 hours of computer use, computer users experience loss of strength in gripping, movement of the arm and hand up & down - and movement to the left & right.
So what action can you take as a parent to reduce the physical risks. Follow our basic ergonomic guide for the PC and Laptop and my personal recommendations:
Explain the physical risks and methods to reduce them.
Enforce the amount of time your child can continuously use the computer. Breaks help the body rest and recharge.
Feet should rest on the floor with knees at a 90 degree angle {if not: use a foot rest }
Seating has lumbar support from waist to shoulder blades built into the chair {if not: use supplemental support }
Elbows at 90 degrees; wrists are level and you have a wrist rest support
If you are a right handed individual; place documents on the right side - on a holder attached to the PC or immediately in front of the PC. Laptop user should place documents on the holder to the right side of computer. Left handed individuals use the left side.
CRT Screen height should be in the area between your eyebrows and the top of your forehead
Adjust Laptop screens to an angle and height as high as possible
Position yourself approximately 24 to 28 inches from screen when operating PC
Mouse should be on same plane as keyboard and no more than 15 degrees to the side
Increase screen illumination to brightest level without affecting screen contrast. {black letters on a light background is preferred } Room lighting in the range of 25 - 50 foot candles
Before you turn on screen, check for glare from lights above, windows, or lights to side.
Since visual difficulties are the largest block of complaints you should consider these recommendations: Have your child's vision checked. You want to make sure the child can see clearly and comfortably.
Children are not the same size as adults. If a child has difficulty reaching the keyboard , placing their feet on the floor, viewing the monitor & their paperwork material, and the chair doesn't fit their physical features - They may experience the same arm, neck, and back discomfort as adults. Children have an advantage in that they are very adaptable and physically flexible. Unfortunately children frequently ignore problems you and I would quickly address. Children often accept blurred vision because they think everyone sees that way. Undetected and uncorrected vision problems cause not only eye strain, but lead to physical problems elsewhere in the body. You can protect your child by applying ergonomics for your home computer. You should work with your school system to have the classroom just as safe as the office you work in day in and day out.
Mousing Around by Duane A. Perkinson
One hundred years ago the individual letters were placed on a typewriter so that the keys would not stick together. Thus a typist could obtain maximum speed and optimum performance. Commonly referred to as QWERTY [the top left hand row of letters you find on your keyboard] this format was also adopted onto virtually all computer keyboards.With Apple's introduction of "point and click" and Microsoft's Windows; overnight the mouse replaced the keyboard as a primary control. Today - Could you accomplish your work on a computer quickly and efficiently; without a mouse?
This article discusses one aspect of the computer workplace: the mouse. Before we delve into the subject I should explain my "Ergonomic 3 Way Test". The products mentioned, I believe, fulfill this personal ergonomic benchmark. The products have been evaluated in many computer environments. As an ergonomic specialist who concentrates on the computer workplace ; I am concerned with: people using the computer being more comfortable > safer{healthier} > and more productive in their work. Let us scrutinize the mouse, its controls, and where it roams.
To avoid any Repetitive Stress Injury; we will assume you are positioned in a basic ergonomic neutral position. That your feet are flat on the floor > your elbows and knees are bent at 90 degrees > wrist angles are not exaggerated upward or downward > your body is properly supported by your chair. You should place your mouse on the same plane as the keyboard- on your dominant side. To reach the mouse; position it approximately 15 degrees from the side of the keyboard. One of my initial observations in too many offices is the mouse resting on top of a desk instead of on the keyboard tray. Over time the stress from the neck down the shoulder along the arm into the wrist and hand will ultimately lead to pain.
The mouse that normally is included with our computer is "designed" so one size fits all. If you have a smaller or larger hand; you simply lived with the mouse size. Not anymore! A number of manufacturers have developed ideal input devices. When people use a mouse I have too often observed excessive force while grasping and controlling the device. By matching the size of the mouse to your particular features; you'll require minimum force to hold and move it. The mouse action should be controlled more by use of the arm instead of moving/bending of the wrist and grabbing by your hand. One of the features I [and our testers] found beneficial in mouse designs: muti- button structure allows for an open hand which is balanced and relaxed. On a conventionally supplied mouse did you ever notice how when you "grab" it; your fingers get bunched, your thumb squeezes against the side, and the knuckles are forced upward? And where is your wrist resting? Hmmm.... You should have a position for proper thumb placement -> is tilted to keep your wrist from twisting -> includes a sloped area to steady your palm. Your present computer system should already include a feature to control the clicks and mouse movement. Don't assume what's originally set up by the manufacturer are the best levels for you. And don't forget to clean your mouse trackball routinely.
Another innovation I have tested is the Precise Mousing Surface manufactured by 3M. Do you ever think about what role your mouse pad plays? Do you find you have to move the mouse more than once to get the cursor where you want it to go? Does it feel like your mouse is stuck in the mud when you try to move it along the pad? These are common situations I have observed with the mouse pad your friendly salesmen supply. When you first see the 3M mousing surface; you'll notice: that it's about as thin as a sheet of paper > the surface is "different" > its shape matches the desired motion range of the hand when using a mouse. These features allow for quicker and more precise movement of your mouse. In turn- less physical force and repetitive actions to control the mouse and get your work accomplished. In the time I have used this mouse surface I have noticed my mouse trackball doesn't get as dirty. 3M points out that their mouse surface doesn't allow for the normal build-up of oils and dirt. Plus this new mouse surface won't fray and get old like the pad you currently employ. Conventional mouse pads should be replaced on a regular basis.
Today the mouse has evolved into other forms. For example Trackballs and glide point surfaces. Are these devices any better than the mouse? Many times computer users will find that personally they "prefer" one device over another. With trackballs and glide point; pay close attention to constant finger extension &finger motion and wrist positioning. If you begin to experience your body signaling any physical trouble in the neck or shoulders or back or hand or wrists; do not wait. Specifically any soreness - stiffness - tenderness - swelling- tingling - numbness - exhaustion - pain. Your body is sending a warning! Ergonomic attention is mandatory.
To help you monitor your mouse and keyboard activity you can utilize software like Office Athlete. Office Athlete allows you to establish personal computer activity controls.The software can be customized to alert you of how much [and how long] keyboard and mouse work you are doing. You are reminded with sounds and pictures to watch your activity and take a rest. Taking a break from the computer activity has many benefits for you both physically and mentally.
An intricate segment of our ergonomic services; we include exercise training.The best way to describe your body; it is a complex system of inter-related pulleys. Sometimes we overlook the fact that when we stretch or extend one part of our anatomy; another part of our body is constricting and adjusting. One specific exercise program for the hands and wrists I find helpful is the use of Power Putty. Power Putty is available in three different resistance levels. The twelve exercises that are included will increase strength and flexibility in the hands, fingers, wrist, and forearm. This is an excellent warm-up tool for intense keyboard and mouse utilization. Remember; exercises prevent the stress on and exhaustion of our muscles.
When I reminisce about my first computer in 1981 and then look at the technology I take for granted today; I'm amazed at the advances. Innovation has transformed the computer into a more efficient and productive tool. How about you? I couldn't function without a mouse today. Nor should you have to do without! Ergonomic intervention in the design of the computer workplace reduces the risk of a repetitive stress injury. Neither I nor my firm receives any compensation for the products that we evaluate and are mentioned in this article. I recommend the 3M Precise Mousing Surface, Office Athlete, and Power Putty because they make a difference. The difference is your body works without the unnecessary exertion. The difference is you work smarter. Using a computer and a mouse shouldn't hurt you.
For information visit our preferred resources page, drop me an or call me at 708-686-5266
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The Weightless State: chairs in the computer workplace
Ergonomics in the office workplace for the staff is critical to a company's bottom line. With the introduction of the computer in the office workplace; ergonomics is even more vital. This is one in a series of articles which discusses what I refer to as the : Assembly line of the '90's". Today I wish to discuss the chair in the office workplace. But why all the concern about a chair?
One out of every four dollars is spent on seating. In 1977 estimates are two thousand computers were in the office workplace by 1992 estimates were fifty million and by 2000 one hundred eighty million. Sixty-five percent of those injured each year are women. Unscheduled absenteeism costs mid size employers between $200,000 and $450,000 annually in lost productivity by white collar workers each year.
Chairs historically were available in three versions: hard, soft and very cushy. Chairs more often reflected a person's status in the company. For the technology at that time; chairs "accommodated" workers. In the office workplace of the past the physical demands were lessened by a job's incorporated breaks. For example a staff member using a typewriter had to load the paper, align the paper, use correction tape, return the carriage, extract the paper, etc.. Top speed: 75 wpm. Today that same employee utilizing a computer has none of the typewriter breaks. All word processing functions: document creation, correction, printing, even filing are completed thru keying. Top speed: 10,000 or more key strokes per hour.
Recent research has demonstrated spinal compression of a quarter to three quarters of an inch after an eight hour day sitting. The human body was designed for movement. The human body is stressed when limited by periods in a static state: sitting. After puberty the body does not self lubricate the discs in your back.
The objective in seating is a weightless state. No forces are acting on the body- gravity, high heeled shoes, the chair itself. This natural state allows open angles between the trunk and thighs as well as the thighs and legs. The concern in seating is static workload: sitting stationary in one position for hours at a time. When employees are immobile for extended hours the chair features should "fit" individual employee dimensions of the torso, legs, and arms. People do not come in all the same sizes proportionally. Chair features to consider:
Chair height - the chair should be adjustable to conform the 5th percentile women (smallest)
and the 95th percentile men (tallest)
Chair back - a person's back is supported basically from the waist to shoulder blades.
Seat pan - centers weigh over the sitting bones and distributes body weight pressure
allowing natural blood flow thru muscles of buttocks and thighs.
Arm rests - provides support as arms move 15 to 17 degrees to sides
with mouse usage and 30 degrees while keying
Tilt tension - reclining reduces weight on the spine shifting from seat to backrest.
Tilt limiting - prohibits worker remaining in one particular state too long.
Chair material - studies show a shifting of position every 7 minutes and body surface
temperature increases by 7 degrees.
Some recommendations: between two and four inches should separate the back of the knee and chair, while seated observe that employee's feet should be flat on floor and the knees are at a 90 degree angle {if not utilize a foot rest}, the elbows should be at 90 degree while hands rest on the work surface {if not utilize a drop keyboard}. The arm rest height should be just as adjustable as the seat pan.
Seating is basically available in two distinct styles either active or passive. How important is the chair to the office workplace?
Mid size businesses lose 500 - 750 man hours {twelve to nineteen weeks} in unscheduled absenteeism yearly.
63% of injuries are to wrist, hand, and shoulders
carpal tunnel accounts for 36% of disabling injuries
One back injury costs $18,838, one carpal tunnel costs $15,000 and much more!
14% of injuries result in 11 - 20 lost work days 10% result in 21 - 30 lost work days
39% result in excess of thirty days lost work
Only the common cold is blamed for more lost work time.
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"Bells & Whistles" alone may hurt you......
Talk about a workhorse phrase! "Bells & whistles" has been used to describe everything "ergonomic" from automobile consoles to copy holders. Unfortunately I believe the focus on Bells & Whistles conveys a misleading message to the purchaser. The subliminal message: the ergonomic solution for your computer workplace is our __________ . Upon closer examination; Bells & Whistles are simply the various product features. For many manufacturers Bells & Whistles refers to that product's list of options . And like anything ala carte - expensive extras. I'd like to explore three products in the computer workplace and their essential features. Then we'll examine the Bells & Whistles spin.
Seatings role for the computer user is so critical. Recent research has demonstrated spinal compression of a quarter to three quarters of an inch after an eight hour day sitting. The human body was designed for movement. The concern in seating is static workload: sitting stationary in one position for hours at a time. When employees are immobile for extended hours the chair features must "fit" individual employee dimensions of the torso, legs, and arms. The chair will then allow the body to be supported - provide uninterrupted blood flow - muscle extension.
A keyboard tray is a keyboard tray is a ............. The important issue is application.The keyboard tray is matched to the category of computer usage. A CAD user - word processor - data entry operator -desktop publisher; each have very unique demands. These physical and technological demands I call Man & Machine must both be addressed. Keyboard features to consider......
Fully adjustable up/down - left/right - in/out > Mouse area is on same plane as keyboard > Wrist rest and/or sufficient area to incorporate proper devices.
The chair height should be adjustable to conform to the 5th percentile women (smallest) and the 95th percentile men (tallest) A person's back is supported basically from the waist to shoulder blades by the chair back. The seat pan centers your weight over the sitting bones and distributes body weight pressure allowing natural blood flow thru muscles of buttocks and thighs.
Arm rests provide support as arms move 15 to 17 degrees to sides with mouse usage and 30 degrees while keying Tilt tension reclining reduces weight on the spine shifting from seat to backrest. Tilt limiting prohibits a worker remaining in one particular state too long. And chair material studies show position shifting every 7 minutes and body surface temperature increases of 7 degrees.
The last product I'll discuss in this article is the wrist rest. Like keyboard trays every possible manufacturer offers a wrist rest. And just like Goldie Locks dilemma; some are "too hard and some are too soft". Ideally the wrist rest should be adjustable to accommodate the physical features of all computer users . And believe it or not they exist for we've tested a few. Inspect the material which covers the wrist rest. Is the material prone to fraying or will it tend to irritate a computer user's skin? If the wrist rest is just a piece of covered foam; don't waist your money. This material is too easily compressed and quickly loses its support value. And as for the gels I'm convinced this can be an effective tool.
The spin's seduction is to convince you that this product's features will do everything for the computer user. Don't rely on the Bells & Whistles to be in charge of your employees ergonomic program. No one product and its repertoire of features alone will protect your computer users from suffering a repetitive stress injury. Bells & Whistles are only part of the ergonomic solution. Individual injury assessment and job execution analysis will identify the true ergonomic requirements for that particular computer user. Education and training will ensure the computer user properly incorporates the product and its Bells & Whistles into their daily routine for the maximum benefit. And don't overlook the computer user's visual performance. But that's another article.
So what sort of spin will you encounter? Don't be surprised if you see a mix of these examples.
When you consider seating the presentation, both verbal and written, promotes the "look" of the chair. The "green" aspect of the product ranks amongst the top reasons to buy the product. Design awards and critical acclaims applaud their ergonomic successes. In your keyboard search the manufacturing process is the highlight. Adjectives and superlatives dominate the product literature. The primary keyboard promotion is on warranty and price.
The quest for your wrist rest will confront you with claims this product is the "latest" technological advancement. This claim does not automatically infer the greatest. You may be handed research papers which report expert testimonial to the theoretical wonders this product can achieve. Be leery of the one size fits all scenario.
If you are considering a product; request a number of the products to evaluate in your own office environments [including your remote work force]. This may be difficult if you are catalog shopping. I recommend you work directly with the manufacturer or their agent. For your testing; let each computer user in the various applications work with the product for at least a week. My personal ergonomic test is the product provides the following: a healthier > safer > and more productive computer operation. Discuss with your testers what they liked and disliked about the product. Did they have any problems [technological & physical] using the product ? Do your testers have any suggestions for improving the product? [Maybe another product already has these Bells & Whistles!] Ask your testers to compare the "new product" to the currently used equipment if that is the scenario. Do the Bells & Whistles live up to their claims? And do they really make a difference to the ergonomics of the computer user?
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Contact Lens Solution Profile
Gas Permeable >> ALL materials & PMMA (hard )
Boston Cleaner (Polymer Technologies / Bausch & Lomb)
Boston Conditioner
Boston rewetting drops [option:Ciba Lens Drop or Clerz 2 (Alcon) rewetting drops]
Boston weekly enzymatic cleaner
2 Week (no sleeping) Disposable: Recommended Care Program
Teenager M/F & Quick Care by Ciba
Young adult woman Quick Care by Ciba
Light Eye color & ReNu MultiPlus by Bausch & Lomb
young male adult & ReNu MultiPlus by Bausch & Lomb
40 years older + ReNu MultiPlus by Bausch & Lomb
E/W / Flexwear & Complete by Allergan
Occasional wear Complete by Allergan
Extended Wear Contact >> All
AOSEPT (Ciba) with Ultrazyme (Allergan)
Planned Replacement Contact (one, two, or three month wear)
Daily Wear --- same as below
Extended Wear --- AOSEPT or (Ciba) with Ultrazyme
Occasions (Bausch & Lomb) --- ReNu MultiPlus by Bausch & Lomb / Complete by Allergan
Dailywear Soflens - Colors - Torics - Bifocals
Teenager M/F & AOSEPT / Ultrazyme
Young adult woman & " "
Work outside / children or " "
in Health care " "
Social Wearer Complete (Allergan)
History of solution sensitivity &40 years old or + Optifree
If you would like an contact lens instruction guide for maximum comfort and reducing damage to your contact lens; e-mail your brand of contact lens and usage to ergo1@earthlink.net
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Ergonomic Eye- Q
1. Do you drop your keys often?
2. For high volume VDT operation how often should you rest your eyes ... your body....? Moderate volume?
3. Do you experience stiffness / soreness / numbness / or tingling IN: hands - wrists - back shoulders- neck - arms
4. How many eye movements are performed each day by a person operating a computer?10,000 or 20,000 or 30,000
How many repetitive motions?20,000 or 50,000 or 70,000
5. Which three visual skills must a computer user possess to perform a job comfortably and productively?
6. What Five ergonomic accessories are vital to healthy computer operation?
7. What significance - application do these measurements have for computer operators:
90 degrees (A) 25 inches (B)0-7 degrees (C) 1000 - 5000(D)
For the answers and a free safety consultation call our at 708-686-5266
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Ergonomic Program Checklist
1. Identify individuals who are experiencing first symptoms and those already hurting[use the free Risk Assessment software]
2. Based upon input of the Risk Assessment inquiry - evaluate employee's job performance
review their work station layout, accessories, resources [use the kit supplied in your training]Be sure to determine dominant side for their work station
3. Review the importance of ergonomics with training of all employees for incorporation on the job
4. Provide a checklist of ergonomic changes for each employee to incorporate in their work
5. Encourage/ promote specific area body strengthening program
6. Review with all symptomatic workers changes so as to eliminate problems
[follow-up in one/two days to ensure problems have disappeared]
7. Follow-up at intervals of one week, one month, three months, six months then annually
8. Refer to corporate procedures in the event a worker complains of continued discomfort for a medical specialists
intervention at this point is critical
* * Call us if you have any questions related to a particular employee or "ergonomics" * * 708-686-5266
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Fatigue
Recently women who were visiting their physician were asked what is your number one physical complaint? 4 out of 5 responded: Fatigue. As an ergonomic specialist I was alarmed by the high 80% rate because of the direct link between fatigue and injuries. I pondered what could I recommended in my role as ergonomic specialist to help prevent fatigue related injuries..
The logical answer would be get more rest. As the parent of a very active 22 month old child; getting rest isn't that simple or always possible. Besides following the standard ergonomic principles- I believe taking breaks could be an invaluable benefit for those fatigued.
In my experience, computer users who are fatigued exhibit distinctive observable behavior. The most obvious is poor upper body positioning, exaggerated forward head placement, reduced levels of productivity and higher error or omission levels. The fatigued individual is experiencing a lack of strength to support shoulders - arms - head and difficulty concentrating & focusing. My concern is the fatigue exerts unusual force and stress on the body which over time can culminate into an injury. So how can taking breaks help?
First taking breaks does not mean " wasting time" at the water cooler. With proper organization of your day and responsibilities you can build breaks into the work day. These breaks from the computer allow your body to rest, refresh, and relax the muscles. And if you need a reminder for those breaks, I strongly recommend ErgoSentry.
I believe we all agree there is no substitute for proper body rest. Breaks can help in protecting the computer user from becoming further physically fatigued. Breaks do not have to be a detriment to productivity and with Office Athlete can be a useful tool in establishing / monitoring performance.
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Factnology
From the Bureau of Labor Statistics (Yr 1997) number of work related injuries requiring one or more days away from work:
Sprains and strains: 799,012
Cuts, lacerations, punctures: 156,722
Bruises, contusions: 165,810
Soreness, pain: 115,411
Carpal tunnel: 29,244
Tendinitis: 17,961
Ergonomic related injuries: 650,000 or one third of all serious injuries . OR in other words ergonomic problems are the single largest cause of serious injuries
1 out of 4 adults is nearsighted
If you type 40 words a minute: you press 12,000 keys per hour or 96,000 keys per 8 hour day
Approximately 8 ounces of force is necessary to depress one key then
Almost 16 tons of force will be exercised by your fingers
39,000 Americans are one handed as a result of accidents or from birth
450,000 people live with a hand or arm paralyzed
Human ear contains between 20,000 - 30,000 sensory receptors
28 million Americans have hearing loss
15% of U.S. adults experienced persistent low back pain.
5 million Americans are partially disabled by back problems.
2 million Americans are so severely disabled by their back problems; they simply cannot work.
93 million workdays are lost by workers due to back pain.
5 billion health care costs are related to back pain.
Men experience low back pain twice as often as women.
NIOSH studies report 81% of VDT operators experience frequent neck/shoulder discomfort.
78% experience occasional back discomfort.
Strength loss after 4 hours of mouse usage:
Grip > 18%
Flexion > 5%
Extension> 23%
Abduction> 60%
Adduction> 55%
Pronation> 38%
Supination> 35%
Twist flexion> 27%
Twist extension> 28%
13 % of all orthopedists visits involve shoulder pains
OSHA and the Wisconsin 200 project working in coordination were able to reduce the injury and illness rate by 35% during a two year period. 200 companies which employed a minimum of 100 individuals and had a poor safety record participated in a program which stressed ergonomics instead of safety inspections. The top 50 companies were able to reduce their workdays lost through injury and illness by 41%. In this Cooperative Compliance program OSHA offered preventive help in place of inspections and fines.
If you are receiving complaints from your employees regarding glare in their computer workstation, here are some facts you should be aware of : Light reflects from prescription lenses -
CR-39: front 4% back 3.8% total 7.8%
Polycarbonate front 5.1% back 4.8% total 9.9%
1.6 index front 5.2% back 4.9% total 10.1%
1.66 index front 6.2% back 5.8% total 12%
The last two categories are the lens materials that significantly reduce the thickness and weight of lenses. In many instances the individuals who use these types of lenses are "sold" on anti reflective coating. While this coating is effective, it is difficult to keep clean. The coating is also more susceptible to scratching and must be cleaned with only very specific materials. My recommendation is instead of anti reflective coatings, that you select the transition option. This is the lens that will darken automatically when exposed to UV outside. In my experience it reduces significantly the glare problems in the computer workplace.
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The Remote Work Force - Low Back Pain is not a new Phenomenon!
By Dr. Richard Lyon
Back pain is not a new phenomenon or "syndrome". Back problems rank high among the reasons for a physician office visit. For persons under age 45; low back pain problem (LBP) is the most frequent cause of disability. Modern medicine can successfully treat many serious spinal diseases . But physicians have completely failed to cure the vast majority of patient's with simple LBP. Traditional medicine traditionally relies on medication, corsets, bed rest, and traction. On the evidence - particularly the most famous Meade clinical study - spinal manipulation applied by chiropractors is more effective than these traditional medical modalities. Many occupational elements have a direct bearing on the prevalence of low back pain (LBP). Driving - lifting - carrying - pulling - pushing - twisting - and vibration all have been implicated in potentially causing LBP. The more you do any of these activities in your occupation ; the higher RISK of developing LBP. Usually, LBP is a repetitive strain injury. And by each turning, twisting, bending,etc.; there is an accumulative affect. The source of simple LBP is usually from damaged irritated spinal joints. These irritated joints in turn produce local muscle spasms. For those in the "Remote Work Force" the greatest single cause for LBP is extended driving (the long commute). Poorly designed equipment and job task also contribute greatly to potential RISk of developing LBP.Therefore: Ergonomic principals must be applied both in the home and conventional office environments. What can you do about LBP in your workplace and remote office?
PROPER SEATING >>> The chair should have lumbar support and fit that person's features. Excessive foot pronation and muscle contractures can create a functional leg length inequality.
WORK SURFACE DESIGN >>> Precise height, placement of resources and accessories, and exact computer positioning all play a role in body activity. Mechanical dysfunctions that exists elsewhere [ from the foot to the neck] in the body's kinetic chain can affect the lower back.
CAN YOU SEE THE COMPUTER SCREEN >>> If you experience focusing difficulty; do you lean forward or extend your head and neck to see the screen or documents? Headaches located on the forehead and/or side of head can be a symptom of focusing problems. Remember: the "eye bone" is connected to the knee bone!
EXERCISE >>> Strengthening and toning of the muscles is a key element in LBP prevention. Your body is a machine. Proper exercise and sport activity maintains good muscleskeletal performance. Recent studies show exercise can prevent RSIs. See our January '96 issue for all of the exercises.
WHAT I DO >>> Follow our ergonomic guide for both PC and laptop usage. Postural fatigue and spinal strains are said to account for 7 out of 10 cases of non - disc functional pain. Your office can have all the bells and whistles. But lifestyle and activities [on and off the job] play a significant role. When the spine and nervous system function normally; the body is allowed to heal itself and many painful symptoms.
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Color Blindness
Eight to ten percent of all males suffer this affliction in various forms and degrees of severity. The severity ranges from mild difficulties with shades and tints of a few hues to a complete absence of all color perception. Less than one percent of women are so afflicted.
People can be classified by their color vision into three major groups. The first group is those with a mild defects are either "red weak" or "green weak". Half of all color defective individuals are so afflicted. The two most common forms of severe color defects are red or green deficient.
These individuals use only two primary colors. These individuals would perceive the colors red,
green, and orange as a brownish tone. Yellow would appear in a tan tone. Blue and white are not affected. I should note there are some individuals who are blue deficient but this is not as common.
The third group is those who cannot distinguish any hues at all and to whom the world appears no more colorful than a black-and-white movie. Total color deficiency is rare and usually accompanied by other severe vision impairments.
Color deficiencies are for the most part hereditary in origin ( some diseases and certain drugs can damage the cells of the retina). These deficiencies remain constant throughout life. However special contact lenses are available to improve color discrimination.
Individuals who are not evaluated for color deficiency will have a difficult time processing the information accurately and in a timely manner. So when evaluating new software packages and intranet design you should consider that eight to ten percent of your male work force that might be affected by your selections.
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REFRESH RATES
An intricate segment of VDT Solution's ergonomic analysis is visual performance. The knowledge of eye dominance, computer vision skills, and dryness level of the eyes all aid in ensuring productive computer usage. Visual performance is integrated with anthropometry and kinesiology [ the analysis of proportions of the human body and the physiological process with the respect to movement]. The VDT monitor directly affects the visual performance. If you are considering ;new equipment or upgrading monitors - please consider screen refresh rates. The letters and characters on a monitor screen are composed by dots. The image is sharp in the middle and gets fuzzier out to the edge. Not at all as sharp as the very defined points on a printed page. If the screen as a smaller dot pitch [.28 mm to .26 mm] the image can improve {Triniton uses vertical stripes on their color monitor}. On a larger screens; 17 inches or larger, flicker strains visual performance. While the computer industry has a 75hz refresh standard - eight monitors have a 85hz refresh rates. With a graphic card and high video bandwidth, some monitor refresh rates can achieve 100hz plus. This can be very helpful to CAD and desktop publisher operators. Avoid interlaced resolution; flicker is terrible. The latest technology is flat screens which have no flicker at all.
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WHAT are the HIDDEN COSTS of RSI -> -> ->
Worksheet
Employee wages [not covered by workmens comp] ->->-> ______________
Wages of temporary help or staff to "cover" vacancy ->->-> ______________
Overtime / catch-up time ->->-> ______________
Lost production [productivity] time ->->-> _______________
Lost time ->->-> _________________
Hiring & Training of replacement worker ->->-> ________________
Specialized office / computer equipment for injured employee ->->-> ________________
Administrative costs ->->-> __________________
Increase in health care costs ->->-> ________________
Increase in workmens compensation rate ->->-> ________________
Miscellaneous ->->-> ___________________
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Assessing Pain
As a business owner and employer; I also pay workman's compensation. My own business's rates reflect the increases per claim. During the period 1986 -> 1996 the average claim rose from almost $6,000 to over $12,000. Many factors contributed to that 53% percent increase. One factor unfortunately is fraudulent claims. Sources that compile workman's compensation information indicate between 87% and 94% of claims truly have a (organic) basis for their difficulties. The remainder tend to be classified as exaggerating pain (fraudulent).
Assessing pain does not have to be a complicated ordeal for the human resource executive or safety director. Four questionnaires provide a reliable avenue to quantify an individual workers difficulty. The four questionnaires are:
Neck Pain Disability Index General Pain Disability Index
Roland-Morris Low Back Pain Disability Revised Oswestry Chronic Low Back Pain Disability
I personally used these questionnaires as a basis for the Risk Assessment software I designed. These questionnaires provide me a reference when conducting observational analysis and employees interviews. You are able to download the Risk Assessment software from our main page. My software will allow you to begin your company's or individual ergonomic identification process.
What are other avenues to assess pain ---
Functional Capacity Evaluation series of physical tests (lifting - climbing - squeezing)
responses compared to "normal levels"
few standardized testing routines
subjective to interpretation
$1,500 cost per test
Mensana Clinic Pain Validity Test self administered computer scored test
high % of accuracy
identification tool only
$100 cost
MRI $ $ $ Expensive
50% accuracy rating
Nerve Conduction Test Painful to the individual
Normally used to confirm CTS
Equipment & training $30,000 plus or
$50 -> 100.00 Cost per test
Studies suggest no relationship between abnormal nerve
conduction and future development of CTS
Independent RSI Evaluation Thorough physical health evaluation
Identify all related difficulties/injuries
Provides corrective treatment
Cost depends on testing/treatment
Because pain is subjective; unique to that individual, objective measurement can be questionable. But a number of identification tools are available to the human resource executive or safety director to separate those truly injured from those who claim to be hurt. In my experience trained professionals: an ergonomic specialist for evaluation of the worker - work environment - and work execution and an RSI educated/experienced chiropractic physician for isolation of the injury and corrective treatment can make the difference in the assessment process
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A Question of Inches
After many presentations I give before businesses and computer groups; a frequent inquiry is
" How far or close should I place my monitor?" My usual response is : "It depends" is met with a puzzled look. It depends is not tap dancing. The distance where you place your monitor is based upon many variables. Amongst which are - your individual visual classification ( i.e. nearsighted, far sighted, presbyopic, etc.) - if you are right or left side dominant - and if the monitor is on top of the work surface or below. When designing work stations for the computer user I examine many critical factors such as the amount of space "allotted" for the computer user, all of the work related responsibilities of an employee, physical characteristics of the individual, any physical handicaps, lighting, etc.. These factors and the above variables together must be considered in the placement of the monitor. But I will supply you with some basic guidelines that have proven successful for my clients.
Research has shown visual scanning is best performed at or slightly above the horizon. If your monitor is on top of the work surface, my recommendation is keep the top of the monitor between your eyebrows and the top of your forehead.
( Remember to attach your document holder to the dominant side of your monitor). For those of you who are nearsighted or without any prescription your monitor should be approximately 24-28 inches away. If you are farsighted the monitor distance would be between 24 & 26 inches away. For a monitor placed under the work station your placement will be closer to you due to the manner in which our eyes converge ( or point ) when gazing downward to read. When the monitor is placed below the work surface my distance guideline for positioning the monitor could be between 18 & 22 inches. A strong warning: if you have suffered a head or neck injury (especially auto accident related) I do not recommend the monitor be placed under the work surface.
For those of you who use bifocal lenses some of these distances are going to be changed.
Your prescription will dictate the exact distance you can work from the monitor. In some instances, one pair of glasses will not be sufficient for all viewing distances and tasks. And not all types of bifocals are suitable for the computer environment. Especially the no line or progressive types of bifocals. Without a thorough analysis of the computer user, the incorrect type of hidden bifocal will be selected. {NOTE: some retail optical locations do not have access to certain bifocal designs like Varilux}. My recommendations for these type of no line bifocal lenses is the Adapter and Readable.
This overview of monitor placement should provide a basic guide. For specific questions I invite your
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Top Ten Health and Safety Violations Found at the North Pole
I received this great little piece through one of the newsgroups to which I subscribe. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
10. Exposure to radioactive material caused a sleigh-leader's nose to glow
9. Contaminants in cafeteria food have given workers an elf-like appearance.
8. Sleigh travelling with an unsecured load ( the sleigh has approx. 64 cubic feet of storage space to hold toys for 500 million children - you figure it out)
7. No reindeer stoop and scoop policy.
6. First aid kit contains only ju-jubes and pixie dust.
5. Improper personal protective clothing has resulted in a Lyme disease epidemic amongst all reindeer handlers.
4. Sleigh not equipped with proper hazard and fog lights.
3. The employer constantly smokes his pipe in the workplace.
2. Means of entrance and egress do not meet the building code, i.e.
doors are only 3.5 feet in height. As well, Chimney flues have not been allowable entrance/exits since 1973
1. The employer, when charged with violations of the Occupational Health
and Safety Act, threatened to put the Ministry of Labour inspector on the naughty list.
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Input devices
Working away from a traditional cubicle workplace poses ergonomic challenges for the telecommuter using a laptop computer. Most of the laptop's input devices we have evaluated do not really offer a perfect choice. Even today's technological advances in design have done little to improve the one size fits all in laptop features. If anything; the minute sizes lend themselves to less weight but I believe more physical difficulties. Whenever possible I encourage telecommuters to utilize a docking station with a multifunctional mouse. This graphic speaks for itself as the cons far outweigh the pros.
Mouse: Pros- relatively inexpensive, minimal finger movement to operate
Cons- gripping too tightly can cause strain, requires a dedicated area for proper usage, roller ball must be cleaned
Trackball: Pros-Less shoulder/arm motion, can be used in a more confined space
Cons- wrist is in a stationary position, more finger motion required to
operate, can be difficult to operate smoothly/efficiently
Touchpad: Pros-can be used in a confined space
Cons-more stress on fingers because of constant work/extension of one finger.
You still want to implement basic ergonomic rules when using a laptop. If you have specific questions; please contact me at 708-686-5266 or
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Right Angle Products Keyboard --- Product review by Duane Perkinson
This is the first keyboard tray we have endorsed and recommend. You might say to yourself keyboard trays are all alike. Well this keyboard tray's truly most unique design feature is a special area for mouse operation. Yes this keyboard tray has the normal bells and whistles of wrist rest, distance extension and level adjustment. But no other keyboard tray that I've seen has a supplemenal 3 inch extension for the mouse. In addition; this mouse area is covered with a very effective material which aids in mouse control. In our testing and evaluation; mouse operation especially up and down was accomplished with greater ease. This results in less repetitive movements for the shoulder. Your wrist is naturally maintained in the proper level position. And we all know what that means for prevention of carpal tunnel.
This keyboard tray is metal and in my opinion of the highest quality. I hope you'll visit their web site which is referrenced on our preferred resources page.
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TRANSITION LENSES
In December '95 I personally visited the Transition laboratory in Pinelles Park, Florida. The Transition option which is available in most current lens designs provides diminished glare from computer screens - reduces glare given off by fluorescent lights - protection for UV - a front side scratch resistant coating - and darkens in sunlight. The Transition lens will darken in the same manner as a "photogray" lens. But this lens doesn't age (stay dark inside) in the same way. Therefore it is non-interferring with a person's computer work. The commitment to quality this company maintains ensures a defect free lens in your glasses. The Transition lens is also available in a safety format. If you'd like to receive a brochure; you may either call my office or our e-mail address is: ergo1@earthlink.net
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Ultraviolet Light - The Invisible Threat
by Duane A. Perkinson
For some time Ultraviolet light (UV) has been known to damage the retina more easily than visible light .UV causes intense shedding of photoreceptors. The human eye can only detect a small band of frequency we call visible light. UV is split into UVA - UVB -UVC. UVA induces skin tanning and sunburn. UVB causes "snow blindness and skin cancer. UVC is absorbed by the earth's ozone. UV is a shorter wave length than visible light and has more energy.The damage UV causes cannot be seen or felt. Damaging effects of long term exposure of course is cumulative. The long term possible consequences: macular degeneration - maybe cataract formation. In our ergonomic evaluations of VDTs; the testing device we utilize indicates the level of UV in low, moderate, or high levels. Newer computer monitors [2-3 years old] have already a "built in" protective measure to reduce UV emissions to very low levels. What steps can you take to protect yourself from UV? * Follow our ergonomic guide's recommendation to position yourself 24 - 28 inches away for the computer monitor * Use the Polaroid CP90 Filter * Reduce direct sunlight into your office [50% of daily UV occurs between 10a.m. and 2p.m.] * Utilize Transition lenses or polycarbonate material in your glasses * Check with your doctor if you take prescription or over the counter drugs. For example tetracycline and oral contraceptives increase sensitivity to UV * Contact lens wearers can consider gas permeable materials made by Boston or Fluoroperm. Soflens wearers can look at a new disposable lens called Precision UV. All these contacts are fabricated with a UV filter. If you desire information on any of these products; I'm always just a call away......
> A special note: because children's crystalline lens provides incomplete blockage; their glasses should have a UV filter, watch their exposure time and distance from the screen.<
UV ABSORPTION OF OPHTHALMIC MATERIALS
Lens % of UV Blocked
UVA / UVB
Clear Crown Glass 50 /98
Photogrey Extra Clear 87 / 98
Photogrey Extra Darkened 93 / 99
Transitions Clear 93 / 99
Transitions Darkened 96 / 99
Clear CR -39 plastic 74 / 98
Hi-index 96 / 99
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Vascular Headaches
Vascular headaches include migraine, hypertensive, and post traumatic. Migraine headaches typically affect between 15% & 19% of men and 25% & 29% of women. Usually migraine headaches are classified in three categories: classic, common, and complicated. While all have common characteristics the most noteworthy are: being preceded by a visual aura, nausea, or mood change. Very often migraine headaches begin in adolescence. Episodes of car sickness as a child are often reported. The head pain may start on one side and become diffuse. These types of headaches can pulsate or throb. They may last for hours or days.
Hypertensive headaches are caused by elevated blood pressure. Often people report waking with severe pain. These headaches will diminish by lowering blood pressure. Post traumatic headaches can follow even minor head injuries. Pain is dull, aching, and bilateral. Memory loss, emotional impairment, and vertigo are associated with this type of headache. If the person suffering this type of headache also was prone to migraines; in 60% of the cases the pain lingers for months.
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Observational Screening for chemical/drug abuse
Fortunately I have never performed a study and evaluated an employee who was under the influence of drugs or alcohol. But I wish to pass along the information I would use in an observational screening to indicate the likelihood of drug/alcohol abuse. Your office can easily implement this screening yourselves as a part of your safety program. Unfortunately the misuse of both prescription and illegal substances by employees is a fact we in business must prepare ourselves for. This screening would be conducted in normal room light.
General observation The white part of the eye is constantly red and blank stare
Pupils abnormally dilated or constricted
Pupils reaction is slow, sluggish,or absent (to a pen light for example)
Inability to maintain focusing - concentration - an attentive gaze
Decreased blinking rate
Besides blood/hair testing, a complete and thorough eye health examination can detect drug reactions. The misuse of prescription and illegal substances have a profound effect on the ocular health of an individual.
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On the road protection
While we are all out on the road, driving can cause a strain on your eyes. So you want to consider sunglass protection. For Some time Ultraviolet light (UV) has been known to damage the retina more easily than visible light .UV causes intense shedding of photoreceptors. The human eye can only detect a small band of frequency we call visible light. UV is split into UVA - UVB -UVC. UVA induces skin tanning and sunburn. UVB causes "snow blindness and skin cancer. UVC is absorbed by the earth's ozone. UV is a shorter wave length than visible light and has more energy.The damage UV causes cannot be seen or felt. Damaging effects of long term exposure of course is cumulative. The long term possible consequences: macular degeneration - maybe cataract formation. Newer computer monitors [2-3 years old] have already a "built in" protective measure to reduce UV emissions to very low levels. What steps can you take to protect yourself from UV? * Follow our ergonomic guide's recommendation to position yourself 24 - 28 inches away for the computer monitor * Reduce direct sunlight into your room /office [50% of daily UV occurs between 10a.m. and 2p.m.] * Utilize Transition lenses or polycarbonate material in your glasses * Check with your doctor if you take prescription or over the counter drugs (For example tetracycline and oral contraceptives increase sensitivity to UV) * Contact lens wearers can consider gas permeable materials made by Boston or Fluoroperm. Soflens wearers can look at disposable lens called Precision UV, Acuvue, and Surevue. All these contacts are fabricated with a UV filter. * Wearing a hat blocks up to 50% of the harmful UV * Gray lenses in your sunglasses provide optimum protection without altering colors * Utilize Polaroid or mirror coated lenses for higher protection levels if you have a light colored eye like blue, green, or gray * The sunglass lens tint should be uniform from top to bottom and side to side (avoid gradient colors) and if you can see through the sunglass, it doesn't have enough density for protect
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Violence in the Workplace
At this time of year our thoughts are more focused on festivities, celebrations, and the holidays. And it's not my intention to damper the spirit of the holidays; but rather share some input for your '99 safety program on a unfortunate challenge for business. While violence in the workplace takes many forms, there are very distinct identifiers and indicators that managers need to be aware of. Amongst of those are a history of violence, psychosis and/or personality disorders, chemical dependence and sudden interest in weapons. The profile which law enforcement agencies have developed looks like this:
male between the ages of 25-40 with a violent history, presently owns weapons, he is angry and socially withdrawn, and constantly complains- then withdraws.
The best weapon for businesses is to acquaint managers with the following criteria and develop a
plan for security. The security should include a safe area for supervisors and managers, policy to address threats & harassment, termination procedures, and thorough pre-employment screening.
Level One
Refuses to cooperate with immediate supervisor
Spreads rumors and gossip to harm others
Consistently argues & swears with co-workers
Belligerent toward customers/clients
Makes unwanted sexual comments
Level Two
Argues increasingly with customers, vendors, coworkers, and management
Refuses to obey company policies and procedures
Sabotages equipment and steals property for revenge
Verbalizes wishes to hurt co-workers and/or management
Sends sexual or violent notes to co-workers and/or management
Sees self as victimized by management (me against them)
Level Three
Frequently displays of intense anger resulting in:
Recurrent suicidal threats
Recurrent physical fights
Destruction of property
Utilization of weapons to harm others
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