Released on = March 14, 2007, 3:38 am

Press Release Author = Marvin Edson

Industry = Small Business

Press Release Summary = RSI (repetitive strain injury) is causing UK office workers
to take almost 5 million working days off sick according to a recent report by the
Health & safety executive, the Trade Union Congress and the Chartered Society of
Physiotherapy.

Press Release Body = The main causes of discomfort and pain sufferers complained
about was back pain, neck pain, muscle aches and wrist problems.
As a health check for desk workers online office supplies company Officeprofiles
have laid out some simple but effective measures to help combat RSI in the office.

Office Environment
Always clean up after eating at your desk.
Wipe desks down regularly with correct cleaning wipes.
With antibacterial contents.

Work surface
Place items required frequently within easy reach.
Always clear unused files etc away.
Place telephone in easy reach on favored side.

Monitor position (probably most important) Position monitor so the eyes are level
with the top of screen.
Avoid leaning toward the monitor.
Correct viewing distance should be 45-91cm away from the screen.
Use screen filter with anti glare facility whenever possible.

Document placement
Place document vertically on the same plane and height as the screen.
Place document on the same side as the 'dominant eye'.
Add task lighting to properly illuminate documents.

Work surface height
Adjust surface height between 66-81cm.
Position keyboard to be in flat or neutral posture.
Keep bottom of elbow even with home row of keyboard (not below) to help circulation.

Seating
Posture should be slightly reclined.
Keep back naturally curved.
Position knees slightly lower than hips.
Place feet flat on floor or on a footrest.
Allow 5-8cm between the back of the knee and the seat pan.
Do not tuck feet under the chair of rest feet on chair legs.

Keyboard/Mouse placement
Position keyboard flat or tilting away from you.
Forearms should be parallel to the floor with elbows bent to a near 90-110 degree
angle.
Position mouse at or below elbow keyboard height and close to the keyboard.
Add a separate keyboard to a laptop.

Finally always ask employers for the correct products to make working at your desk
an easier and more comfortable experience.



Web Site = http://www.officeprofiles.co.uk

Contact Details = Officeprofiles Limited
3A eagle Rd
Quarry Hill industrial park
Ilkeston, Derbyshire
DE7 4RB