Week eleven

Question 1

‘Correct’ posture

Answer 1

Importantly, this process of considering the range of potential contributing factors dispels the common notion of encouraging workers to use a ‘correct posture’. This could be defined as the position (in an office context) whereby joints (neck, shoulders, wrists, hips) are in neutral positions and supported appropriately. However, postural demands, and hence injury (or discomfort) will depend on the tasks performed, duration and a wide range of other contributing factors.

Question 2

Sedentary work

Answer 2

(prolonged sitting or reclining with little or no physical activity) has been increasingly acknowledged as detrimental not only by contributing to 
injury risk but to poor health in general. 


Question 3

Sit-stand desk

Answer 3

Height-adjustable desks, to allow sitting and standing work, are increasingly popular. Whilst there may be benefits such as reduced back pain, and increased postural variety is likely to be beneficial, the fundamental principles of ergonomics still apply – and the use of such equipment is likely to only be effective if other work interventions are put in place.
Introducing a sit-stand workstation which results in prolonged static standing can increase back discomfort and risk of varicose veins.
Sit-stand workstations should:
 Be easily adjustable, with regular adjustment during the day
 Be adjusted to suit characteristics of the user and of the equipment and tasks
 Allow monitor height adjustment
Sit stand workstations have been promoted to reduce the contribution long duration sitting postures might have on injury risk. However, long duration standing is just as harmful – so the postural variety offered by sit stand workstations is the main advantage.

Question 4

Activity based work

Answer 4

which is based on:
- people (behavioural environment),
- place (physical environment), and
- technology (including knowledge sharing)

The focus for ABW is on designing workspaces that are suitable for specific work tasks, so people can move between spaces depending on what tasks they are performing. Key to this concept is having the right technology, enabling people to work in different locations, and a supportive management culture. Successful Activity Based Working requires management to provide the means for effective flexible working whilst trusting the workforce to work and perform. 


Question 5

Remote work

Answer 5

Working somewhere other than the office. designing shared working spaces and the use of laptops, smart phones and other devices require the same process of assessment, design, and evaluation (ADE). Consider the process of choice where people work in flexible working environments, and the different tasks requirements of user groups.