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Ergonomics Offers Dental Practice Benefits
Ergonomics is the science of environments and products to match the individuals who use them. We all know that an ergonomic office environment can result in less time devoted to sick days, less hours of muscle fatigue, reduced risk of injury, and less chances of chronic disability. The study of ergonomics has interested scholars for years. However, it is only recently that we have developed a science to describe the human factors involved in different environments. It is time for the dental profession to fully embrace the ergonomic concept, since this type of a work environment pays in terms of production time and employee job satisfaction.
The following is an easy checklist describing how ideal ergonomic areas can be maintained in your workplace environment.
Front Desk Computer Terminal
- The terminal screen is free of glare or shadows. Images on the screen are sharp, easy to read and do not flicker. The terminal is located away from windows or at a 90-degree angle to the window.
- The top of the monitor is slightly lower than eye level.
- When working on the keyboard, wrists are relaxed on a wrist rest to help reduce muscle fatigue.
- The operator is sitting directly in front of the keyboard and the keyboard is placed directly in line with the monitor.
Chairs
- Backrests or lumbar supports are contoured to support the contour of your spine and are height adjustable so they can fit the individual.
- A seat cushion that slopes down at the front of the chair helps improve circulation to the lower legs.
- All chair adjustments can be reached from a seated position and mechanisms can be adjusted frequently to accommodate body movement throughout the course of the day.
Work Surface
- Non-reflective to reduce glare and large enough to accommodate work material.
- Leg room is sufficient to change position of legs without getting up.
- Place commonly used items close at hand to avoid excessive stretching and store infrequently used items.
- Loose wires are well-managed by the use of grommets or wire management channels so they do not interfere with operator safety.
Visual Environment
- Lighting does not produce glare or shadows.
- Wall color is neutral or not too bright.
- Windows have blinds or curtains to prevent glare.
- Room lighting is uniform and slightly dimmer than usual office lighting.
- General work areas have indirect or diffuse lighting.
It is important to recognize the many danger zones within the office environment and how to correct them. Realize that what works for one person may not necessarily work for another. While instituting ergonomics in your office, provide individual solutions for each worker and area. By incorporating these principles into your work environment, you prevent physical damage or injuries that may occur, enhance performance and comfort, and improve productivity.
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