In the last issue of Lab Manager, we began to explore the ergonomic risk factors associated with the use of
computers. To recap briefly, three of the fundamental ergonomic risk factors are: position/posture, repetition/duration, and force. These can all be influenced by the work area setup and the activities being performed.

It’s just a fact: In today’s modern laboratory you are going to spend some time using a computer. You used to feel good all day long, but now you hurt after just a few minutes at the computer.

New study investigates ergonomic effects of obesity-related functional performance impairment.

"It's possible that employers could be held accountable in the future."

In the past decade, a growing body of research has focused upon the cost of sedentary lifestyles and health outcomes rising from long hours spent sitting at work. More and more employees are considering alternatives to traditional desks.

Ergonomic injuries are widely recognized as a major factor in work place health. About one-third of all occupational injuries and illnesses stem from over exertion and/or repetitive motion.

There is a good chance you spend many hours at a computer workstation entering data and researching databases. By setting up your computer workstation optimally and paying attention to a few key elements of positioning and alignment, you can greatly reduce the chance of an ergonomic injury.

Because of the increased incidence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among laboratory workers, the principles of ergonomic design and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) are becoming increasingly important topics in the design of the biological safety cabinet (BSC).