As a computer user, in-office ergonomics is important. However, you spend a lot of time at home doing other activities. Pay attention to your ergonomic health while out of office with the following tips.

Working from Home

Remote work is becoming extremely common. Make sure your work from home space helps you maintain your ergonomic health while out of the office.

1. Start by using a chair that is the right height for you. Your feet should be able to reach the floor with your knees bent at a 90-degree angle and in line with your hips.
2. Your monitor should sit at eye level. If it’s too low, a monitor riser should do the trick.
3. Make sure that while you type, your wrists are able to rest comfortably on your desk with your elbows slightly bent and your shoulders relaxed.
4. Use the flexibility you have while working at home to switch up your working position. Take a few hours to work at a tall kitchen counter or schedule a call while you’re on a walk.

Gardening

Heavy tools and supplies are often needed while gardening. Pick these items up properly.

1. Start by bending your knees and picking up the heavy item with a straight back.
2. If you spend a lot of time kneeling on grass or dirt in front of your favorite plant bed, use a kneeling cushion or knee pads.
3. Invest in ergonomic tools that aren’t too heavy, have padding and are the right size for you.

Cooking

Making your kitchen a productive and comfortable place is no easy task. Many kitchens are full of mismatched gadgets, food storage containers and cups scattered throughout cabinets and drawers. One of the first ways you can increase your ergonomic health while you cook is to reorganize your kitchen.

1. Take everything out of your cabinets and drawers
2. Get rid of gadgets and tools that you don’t use.
3. Group items by function and store near their area of use. For example, store pans near your stove, food storage containers near your fridge, and so on.

Driving

If you have a long commute, your driving position can have a big tole on your ergonomic health. A few small adjustments can go a long way.

1. Adjust your seat so that your feet reach the pedals with slightly bent knees that are in line with your hips.
2. If your lower back gives you trouble, consider using a lumbar support or small pillow on long car rides.
3. Ensure the steering wheel is positioned so that your arms can comfortably reach with slightly bent elbows and relaxed shoulders.

Ergo Works® in Palo Alto, CA is your ergonomic expert. Whether you need ergonomic accessories for your at-home office or one of our ergonomic services, contact us. We can help you create a safe and healthy work environment. Our team was developed to combat ergonomic concerns among heavy computer users. Schedule any of our three levels of Ergonomic Evaluations to begin your ergonomic health journey.

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