NATIONAL ERGONOMICS MONTH | October
National Ergonomics Month is an annual designation observed in October. In case you’re not too sure what ergonomics means, it’s the study of people’s efficiency in their work environment, and the science of refining the design of products to optimize them for use by humans. Ergonomics are actually referred to sometimes as human factors engineering. Some of the main focuses of ergonomics are computers and related products like the desk your computer sits on, the chair YOU sit in, how the keyboard works with your hands, etc. This is because typically, these products are used the most during a work day. If they are poorly designed for us to use, we may suffer unnecessary stress, fatigue, or even injury. The ultimate goal is to arrange and build things so we can use them easily, efficiently, and safely.
OBSERVE
Use #NationalErgonomicsMonth to post on social media. Take a few minutes to learn about ergonomics this month, it definitely can’t “hurt!” (See what we did there?) Here are some things that may be beneficial to keep in mind.
- Posture and ergonomics go hand in hand. Whether you are sitting or standing, keeping proper posture reduces stress on your spine and back.
- A lack of ergonomics is actually linked to work related injuries. Some of the most common include overexertion, awkward postures, vibrations, and performing repetitive motions.
- Small changes can have big benefits. If you incorporate ergonomics into your workplace, you’ll have healthier, happier coworkers, and it’s not a costly or difficult process to make minor adjustments.
HISTORY
The Human Factors and Ergonomics Society designated October of every year to be National Ergonomics Month in 2003. Celebrate this month by incorporating ergonomics into your every day life. You’ll be glad you did!