Physical ergonomics in display screen work

Display screen work is often associated with neck stiffness or back pain to the extent that they are seen as a normal and unavoidable part of display screen work. However, it is important to understand that the use of ergonomic working methods in an ergonomic working environment can make display screen work completely painless. Working in an unergonomic working environment or using unergonomic working methods for a prolonged period of time will likely lead to physical stress and diseases of the musculoskeletal system.

It is all about the right choices. The first choice is to create a working environment based on the principles of physical ergonomics. The employer is ultimately responsible for this, but employees can also influence their environment.

The second choice is to decide whether one works in a manner that promotes their health and performance by utilising the ergonomics of the working environment. The employee is mainly responsible for this aspect of ergonomics. An employee’s responsibility is emphasised in remote work, when the employer cannot monitor the working conditions and methods as closely as at the office.

Pihlajalinna Occupational Health Care’s individual online course on ergonomic display work promotes ergonomic working. The course helps an individual work ergonomically and adjust their workstation also at home. The course increases one’s awareness of the optimisation of workplace ergonomics. The course is an easy way to improve the personnel’s competencies, especially in multi-location work.

Other services promoting the ergonomics of display screen work include an occupational physiotherapist’s interactive lectures and group training (also available remotely) and targeted workplace surveys. Please consult your organisation’s designated occupational physiotherapist to find solutions that best suit your goals.

Lauri Raivo

Service Manager, Occupational Physiotherapy