Setting Up and Using Your System
Working in Comfort and Safety
Chapter 1
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example, if you are primarily using the keyboard, place it directly in
front of you, not to the side. If your work involves extensive use of a
mouse or other pointing device, place that device directly in front of
your left or right arm. If you are using both a mouse and keyboard,
place them both at the same work surface height and close together.
If a palm rest is used, the height should be flush with the front edge
of the keyboard. Other items, such as your telephone or notepad,
should also be considered.
CAUTION
Various aspects of using mice, keyboards and other input devices may
increase your risk of discomfort or injury. Optimize your comfort and
safety by positioning these devices properly.
Your Work Posture
Sitting in one position for long periods can be uncomfortable. To
minimize the potential risk for physical discomfort or injury, it’s
important that you maintain a proper posture.
•
Head. When viewing your monitor, your head should not be tilted
more than 15 degrees forward, and do not turn your head toward
either side.
•
Back. While sitting at your work surface, make sure your back is
supported by the chair's backrest in an erect position or angled
slightly backwards.
•
Arms. Make sure your arms and elbows are relaxed and loose, with
your upper arms perpendicular to the floor or tilted downward not
more than 15 degrees. Keep your forearms and hands approximately
parallel with the floor with elbows bent between 70 and 115 degrees.
Keep your elbows close to your sides (less than 20 degrees away from
your body).
•
Hands, Wrists, Forearms. Try to keep your hands wrists and
forearms in a relaxed neutral position when using your mouse
keyboard or other input devices. For example, while using your
keyboard and mouse, rest your forearms (flat) on your desktop.
•
Legs. Your thighs should be horizontal or angled slightly downward.
Your lower legs should be near a right angle to your thighs. Make
sure there is sufficient room under the work surface for your legs.
