Ergonomic Information 

 
The modern workplace is evolving at a more rapid pace than at any other time in history. The way we work and the tools we use, whether in the office or production environment, change constantly. This is also the case with office ergonomics (the relationship between the worker and the working environment).

The most important component in any company is the human resource. As we demand more and more of ourselves in the modern, competitive workplace, we are made increasingly aware of our own fragility in the form of muscle aches and pains as well as actual nerve damage and permanent injuries.

The bottom line is quite simply that the human body was not designed to work the way we do. By studying the relationship between the worker and the work environment or the work to be done, ergonomists, occupational therapists, and kinesiologists strive to minimize the risk factors involved in our daily work. It is with this research taken into account that HORIZON develops seating and computer accessories to address and eliminate these risks.

Through continuing research, innovation, and product development, HORIZON endeavors to be a leader in bringing real solutions to market for the ergonomic and biophysical challenges of the modern workplace.

• Maintain between 20" and 26" distance from the computer
• Keep Monitor dust-free to improve visibility
• Computer monitors should be angled between 10 and 20 degrees for better visualization and should also be flicker free
• Keep monitor at a 90 degree angle to windows if possible to reduce glare
• Set the contrast and brightness of the screen to a comfortable level
• Consult your vision care specialist if you experience eye fatigue or discomfort
  
  

 
Neck/Spine/Legs: Seating/Adjustable Workstations

• Adjust seating so your spine sits in its "neutral" position; that is a slight inward curve in the lower back (lumbar) region
• Line up the top of the monitor screen with your normal line of vision; this will decrease the stress on the neck muscles
• Maintain knee angle of 90 degrees or less
• Computer interface (keyboard/mouse) should be height adjustable
• Seat pan should be at least 18" wide and height adjustable with a "waterfall" edge
• Make sure the backrest is adjustable and supports the lower back; If your chair has  insufficient adjustment its time for a new one                                            
• Keep your head in a comfortable but upright position
• Your feet should rest flat on the floor

Arms/Wrists: Articulating Keyboard Combos/Wrist Supports

• The keyboard should be positioned so that your arms are relaxed and comfortable
• Your upper arms should be vertical at your sides
• Your wrists should be extended straight, not bent up or down
• Elbows should be at a comfortable 90-degree angle
• Your wrist/palm support should NOT be used while actually keying, only during pause breaks or resting periods
• Your shoulders should be in a restful position, not arched up
• Keep arms and wrists as natural as possible while keying; A slight downward tilt is acceptable
• Keep mouse next to the keyboard as you should not have to stretch or reach for it

• Make sure all computer cords are safely out of working area
• Insure computer, CPU's are stored safely off the floor

• Every ten minutes look away from the monitor
• Every twenty minutes take a few minutes to grab a drink of water or stretch
• Change the way you sit throughout the day; Sitting fully erect for long periods of time can cause discomfort & fatigue
• Use a timer or a reminder to take breaks