Engineering CAD workstation from SIS Human Factor Technologies contains (left to right) a table for paper-oriented activities with two-drawer storage unit, bilevel computer system table with tilting and sliding surfaces, corner unit, tiltable drafting table, and chair. Each piece is height adjustable from sit to stand via crank mechanism (upgradable to electric motor).

Ergonomics — a science that concerns the relationship between workers and their machines, began during World War II with attempts to design cockpits that made pilots efficient and comfortable. Its principles moved into the factory, and then, when computers became commonplace, into the office.

Today, providing a properly equipped work environment is an important priority for companies that rely on computers for designing products and manufacturing systems. At stake is the health and productivity of engineers and designers. The sedentary nature of dedicated computer work, the fast work pace of the engineering office, and the long work hours can take a toll. Musculoskeletal strain and stress-related ailments can cause absenteeism, insurance claims, and even legal recourse.

By applying ergonomics, you can boost the productivity of the engineering staff, improve morale, reduce absenteeism, and lower medical costs. All it takes is careful planning, asking the right questions, judicious purchasing, and common sense.

Observe and ask

Start by reviewing your present computer work environment. Are lighting, temperature, and ventilation adequate? Are connections to power and communications adequate and accessible? Do the computer operators have suitable work surfaces and storage for manuals, catalogs, references, and supplies? How does work flow through your office? How closely must engineers and designers work together? How important is interpersonal communication?

Three steps can help you assess your needs: observe and evaluate the work environment, review maintenance records, and talk to the computer operators. To evaluate the environment, prepare a checklist based on requirements listed in the preceding paragraph, adding others as needed. Answer as many of the questions as you can based on observation and personal knowledge. Then review maintenance records, which may disclose problems in areas such as lighting, temperature levels, ventilation, and electrical requirements. Finally, discuss working conditions with the computer operators to gain insights into their satisfaction levels with work flow, equipment, and workplace comfort. These discussions can generate suggestions about improving their productivity through new equipment and workplace amenities.

Recent changes (or planned changes) in computer hardware can have an impact on the workplace. Larger PCs or workstations, monitors, printers, and other peripherals may crowd the area. Networking with other engineers or with the factory floor may require modifications to the area.

Lighting

Lighting engineers have found that standard office lighting is too bright for the computer environment. For example, suggested levels for typical office work range from 50 to 100 footcandles (fc).

Star base, waterfall-edge seat, lumbar support, discreetly placed adjustments, and recessed arms on this Girsberger chair are hallmarks of proper ergonomic seating.

In the computer area, however, suggested levels range from 25 to 75 fc. Overhead lighting and natural light creates reflected glare from computer screens, which causes distractions and eyestrain, as well as head and neck pain, thereby increasing the likelihood of errors.

Here are some steps to reduce lighting and glare problems:
• Reduce overhead light by removing fluorescent tubes, replacing them with lower output tubes, or installing louvers in overhead lighting units.
• Provide adjustable task lights to illuminate source documents rather than the monitor screen.
• Add a glare screen or hood to the monitor.
• Angle the monitor slightly down or to the side.
• Position computer workstations parallel to or away from windows.
• Position workstations between lighting sources.
• Install window blinds or shades.

Continue on next page