Guides & Toolkits

2 310-AQT-01-IGDO © 2019, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS) 1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | www.wsps.ca OFFICE WORKSTATION DESIGN The Mouse Hand-held input devices, such as a computer mouse, are commonly used in computer work. A mouse should be placed as close to the user's side as possible and at a height that allows the arm to hang relaxed from the shoulder. The wrist should be in a 'neutral' position (that is, so the hand is in line with the forearm). This position causes the least physical stress. The mouse should be able to move freely. The size and shape of the mouse are also important. For example, to prevent cramped hand postures, different-sized devices may be required for different users. The mouse should also be shaped to minimize bent wrist postures. Buttons on the mouse should be located to avoid awkward finger and hand postures. Settings can be adjusted for left-handed users and to change the speed and distance of mouse travel and clicking actions required. Users should loosely hold the mouse and move it from the shoulder rather than just the wrist. This distributes muscular demands better and reduces wrist movements and static loading. Alternative input devices are also available such as trackballs, joysticks and digitizing tablets, and may be preferred by some users depending on task, application and/or personal preference. Monitor Position Proper positioning of monitors is essential to preventing neck and eye strain. Computer monitors should be placed so that the top of the screen is at, or slightly below, the user's eye level. The viewing distance between the user's eyes and the screen should be 50 to 100 cm. If the screen is viewed continuously or frequently, it should be directly in front of the worker. For bifocal or trifocal wearers, the top of the screen should be slightly lower (or moved back further) to avoid awkward neck posture. An alternative is to obtain prescription lenses for computer work. Some offices have multiple monitors which pose additional challenges. Contact WSPS for further guidance. WSPS.CA

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