Ergonomics is the study of how humans interact with their work environment and ergonomic supplies are designed to prevent injuries and increase productivity. The different types of ergonomic supplies include office supplies or office furniture. Many companies provide ergonomically designed equipment to their employees to reduce sick leave and on-the-job injuries.
Office related ergonomic supplies include wrist pads, keyboards, chairs, desks, and foot rests. Wrist pads are narrow foam pads that are placed along the bottom edge of keyboards. The user can rest his or her wrists on the foam pad while typing. This reduces wrist strain and may help prevent carpal tunnel syndrome.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by repetitive strain on the median nerve running through the wrist and arm. When a person has carpal tunnel syndrome, his hands may go numb and prevent him from using a keyboard. Many employees who work at keyboards all day opt to wear wrist splints designed to prevent or reduce the possibility of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.
Keyboards are ergonomic supplies often used by office workers. An ergonomic keyboard is different than the traditional QWERTY designed keyboard in that it is split down the middle. Instead of being rectangular, the ergonomic keyboard is slanted at an angle in the middle where the space bar is located. This allows the user to type in a more relaxed position and some models even have adjustable elevations.
Ergonomic supplies such as office chairs help reduce muscle and back pain. Office chairs made with a lower lumbar support allow the user to sit completely back in the chair and still have straight posture. The lumbar support portion of the chair curves in and provides more padding in the lower back area. Ergonomically designed chairs also have adjustable seat heights so users of varying heights can still be the appropriate distance and height away from their workstation.
Other furniture related ergonomic supplies like desks also help users sit and work at the appropriate height to prevent back and neck pain. Desks that can be raised or lowered depending on the users are the best option for companies searching for ergonomic supplies. Modular desks usually work well and some even include a slide-out keyboard drawer.
Foot rests are especially helpful ergonomic supplies for shorter workers. By placing their feet on a foot rest, the worker can still maintain the optimal 90 degree angle suggested by ergonomic specialists to reduce strain. Foot rests may also be necessary if desks and chairs are not adjustable since shorter workers may have a hard time keeping proper alignment.
