Ergonomic for Screen-based Workstations

Introduction
Roles and Responsibilities
Guideline Procedure
Documents/Forms
References

Introduction

This procedure outlines recommendations for the management of screen and keyboard based equipment in keeping with ergonomic recommendations and standards. The WorkPace ergonomic software program is provided as part of the standard operating environment to assist in the prevention of musculo-skeletal injury.

Roles and Responsibilities

Line Managers/Supervisors are responsible for:

providing a safe work environment and safe systems of work
applying this procedure in their area of responsibility
ensuring workstations and work areas comply with relevant standards
ensuring staff are consulted in relation to the arrangements and procedures to be followed in relation to workstations
ensuring appropriate information and/or training is provided to staff in relation to ergonomic principles and practices
ensuring ergonomic inspections are conducted of workstations.

Staff Members are responsible for:

not placing themselves or others at risk of injury
reporting hazards associated with their workstation and consulting with line managers and supervisors in relation to appropriate risk control measures
using furniture, equipment, and accessories in accordance with good ergonomic practices.

Health and Safety Representatives are responsible for:

assisting line managers and staff in the identification, assessment and control of workstation health and safety risks.

Guideline Procedure

Workstation design at the University must provide adequate flexibility in order to accommodate the needs of different individuals, particularly with multi user workstations. It should ensure the application of established ergonomic principles in relation to keyboard and screen-based equipment in accordance with the requirements of Australian Standard AS 3590.1-3/1990 Screen-based Workstations.

Workstations must be set up using appropriate ergonomic furniture and equipment that will enable staff working at a screen and keyboard equipment to adopt good practice in relation to work posture.

The use of WorkPace is recommended for all staff and its use should be encouraged, both at work, at home and when using notebook computers to assist in the reduction of occupational overuse injury.

Laptop and notebook computers present additional hazards and further information is provided at the following WorkCover Hazard Alert.

Where notebook computers are used for extended periods of time eg (greater than one hour at any one time) it is preferable that notebook computers are placed onto a stand of approximately 100mm high and that a standard sized keyboard and detached mouse is used. It is also highly recommended that the WorkPace ergonomic software program is also loaded onto all notebook computers.