What is office ergonomics? It is the science of designing work and workplaces to accommodate the user's physical and psychological needs. It aims to minimise the person's limitations and amplify his or her capabilities. Here are the general rules for posture at work: • Keep your shoulders relaxed and    elbows close to the body when using the keyboard or mouse. • Sit on the chair with your lower back fully supported by the backrest. • Adjust the height of the chair to achieve proper posture. • Maintain posture at an angle of 90 or more at the hips and knees. To avoid leg and foot strain: • Use a footrest to provide support for your feet if necessary. • Allow sufficient clearance to move knees and legs under the desk or keyboard   tray. To avoid straining your hands and arms: • Wrist should be relaxed and straight when typing or using the mouse. • Use minimum force when typing on the keyboard. To avoid eye strain: • Have the top of your computer screen at or slightly below eye level. The screen   should be about one arm's length away. • Give your eyes a break by looking at a distant object regularly. To prevent tiredness and muscle ache: • Interrupt long periods of sitting at regular intervals. • Alternate between tasks that use different muscle groups • Perform stretching exercises regularly. THE SGH ERGONOMICS PROGRAMME helps maintain ideal work conditions for employees by: • Reducing the potential for on-the-job injuries. • Encouraging an awareness of safe work practices in the workplace. • Promoting health awareness and job satisfaction. INFORMATION: Occupational Therapy Department Singapore General Hospital Tel: 6222 3322 (mainline) www.sgh.com.sg The above information is not a substitute for a doctor's medical advice. Consult your Family Doctor or a Specialist if you have any concerns about your health.