Ergonomics deals with the design of jobs, tools, equipment, and environments to complement the abilities and limitations of the human body.  It has mainly focused on the workplace, however, school staff and students can also benefit from learning how to appropriately set up a computer workstation, the best backpack design and use, and how to adjust their posture during after school tasks.

Tips for students

-    At home and at school, adjust the computer workstation to a comfortable position

-    Take breaks every thirty minutes, move around and stretch

-    Do not overload your backpack; it should weigh up to 10 to 15% more than your weight

-    Establish a schedule to play computer games, and switch between games that allow you to use different controls so that your thumbs don’t get numb

-    If you have an after school job, avoid lifting, carrying, and working with your hands overhead, bending your back, and repeating movements

-    Ask your employer about the ergonomics principles they recommend

Tips for school staff

Teachers

-    Adjust the computer workstation to a comfortable position
-    Do not bend your back for a long time when working with the students, sit down or squat for short whiles

Custodians

-    Do not lift heavy mop buckets to pour into sinks, look for a floor drain and tip the bucket over, or get a bucket with a bottom emptier

Kitchen staff

-    Store heavy supplies on lower shelves
-    Open heavy boxes and put items away individually
-    Use carts to move pots, supplies, and other heavy objects

Librarians

-    Adjust the computer workstation to a comfortable position
-    Put books that are frequently requested on a cart near the front
-    Use the appropriate ladder or step to reach books on high shelves without straining your body

Administrators

-    Before buying furniture and equipment, determine the product’s use and research the available options to find the ones with the best ergonomic principles
-    Purchase appropriate back supports for the members of the staff who spends long hours sitting in front of a computer due to the demands of their jobs

There is no question about it; appropriate ergonomics will enhance school staff and students’ performance while at school, and even during after school activities, without mentioning the positive attitude it will bring into their work and lives due to the feeling of wellness that comes with improving ones general posture.

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