2023-09-04 15:00:27
September 04, 2023
With the start of the school year, it is time to review the layout of your workstation. A point that is often overlooked and yet helps prevent musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
General posture. The feet should rest flat on the ground preferably. Or even on a footrest when the seat or work surface is not height adjustable and you are not able to put your feet flat. When using the keyboard, the angle of the elbow is straight or slightly obtuse. The forearms are close to the body. The back, straight or slightly back, supported by the backrest.
Armchair. Its backrest and seat must be adjustable, in the same way as the armrests (in height). These must be arranged to support the forearms without lifting the shoulders. The seat must also be deep in order to give you the possibility of supporting the lower back. “without the front edge exerting pressure behind the knees”, specifies the National Institute of Research and Safety for the Prevention of Workplace Accidents and Occupational Diseases (INRS). Finally, opt for firm padding.
The screen. The top of the monitor should be at eye level, at a comfortable reading distance. This corresponds more or less to the length of the arm. If you’re working on a laptop, use a riser that puts the top of the screen at the right height. And connect a standard keyboard if necessary to maintain optimal typing conditions.
Keyboard and mouse must be placed at the same level for use in line with the shoulder and the forearm. The keyboard is slightly angled and has a matte surface to prevent reflections. Note that there are vertical mice. She “allows a more neutral posture of the forearm”, as the INRS says. “They are a good compromise between posture, feeling and performance.”
Environment. Ideally, the worktop should be placed in a bright room, with the screen positioned – as much as possible – perpendicular to the window(s). If necessary, use a mobile and adjustable auxiliary lamp.
To note : musculoskeletal disorders are the leading cause of compensated occupational illnesses in France according to Public Health France. In 2019, they concerned 88% of occupational diseases recognized by the general system. MSDs affect the hands, fingers and wrists (37%), shoulders (31%), elbows (22%), back (7%) and knees (2%).
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