What Should I Do if I am Experiencing Ergonomic Problems at My Computer Workstation?

• Assess your workstation and your work habits by using the User Friendly Workstation (choose format: html or pdf) diagram and Personal Workstation Checklist (choose format: html or pdf) on this website. Implement recommended changes that you can. Ask your supervisor to help you find solutions to problems you cannot resolve on your own.
  
  
• Rotate your job tasks or take a stretch break after every half hour of intensive computer use.
  
  
• Enroll in the next "Computer Health Matters" workshop to learn more about designing a user-friendly workstation and stretches to relieve computer-related aches and pains. You can enroll on line at http://hrweb.berkeley.edu/ice/home
  
  
• Ask your departmental computer workstation evaluator to evaluate your workstation. To find out who your departmental computer workstation evaluator is, ask your supervisor, Department Safety Coordinator, or call Ergonomics@Work at (510) 642-8410.
  
  
• Notify your supervisor and call the campus Occupational Health Clinic at (510) 642-6891 for an appointment if you are experiencing pain, numbness and tingling, stiffness or cramping, or loss of grip strength.

Repetitive motion injuries are easier to treat in their early stages. Ignoring symptoms could lead to chronic or serious injuries. Symptoms that go away overnight are usually a sign of fatigue. Symptoms that are persistent and don't go away overnight may indicate a more serious problem. Seek medical attention if you are experiencing such symptoms.

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