Watch Out for 4 Common Workplace Hazards

March is workplace safety month – are you taking the necessary safety precautions in your office? Oftentimes, when we think of workplace safety, we think about major injuries, like those at a construction site. However, many serious workplace injuries affecting the musculoskeletal system can still occur in the office. Even sitting for too long at your desk job can be hazardous to your health.

How to Improve Workplace Ergonomics and Reduce Pain

Are you at risk for a workplace injury from poor office ergonomics? Check the following:

1. Assess your posture. Sit as close as possible to your desk to avoid unnecessary neck strain. The upper arms should be parallel to the spine and your hand should rest at the work surface. If your elbows and knees are not at 90-degree angles, adjust your office chair height accordingly.
2. Check your chair height. If you sit too high, you increase the likelihood that your ankles will swell and may even aggravate circulation problems. Depending on your height, your chair seat should be between 16 to 21 inches from the ground. To check for optimal height, slide your finger underneath your thigh towards the front of your chair. If you cannot easily slide your finger here, the chair is likely too high.
3. Support your back. Poor posture is a major cause for lower back pain. Check your chair: it should include cushioning that pushes your back forward when sitting and support an angle of 90 degrees. If your chair fails to provide this support, consider adding a lumbar support cushion.
4. Adjust the height of your computer screen. Without tilting your head up or down, your eyes should rest easily on your computer screen. This can sometimes be difficult with laptops and may require the use of a wireless keyboard that’s separate from the laptop to achieve an ideal screen height. This keeps your neck properly aligned and prevents the heading from leaning forward, which can strain the cervical spine and cause neck pain.

Do you ever feel pain in your back or neck after a day in the office? If you need a chiropractor for a work injury in Seattle and Edmonds, call us today!