Did you know that seven out of 10 working adults in Singapore suffer from back, shoulder and neck pains? And these aches and pains are a result of poor work habits or badly designed workstations?

Now thanks to the launch of a new standard by SPRING Singapore (Standards, Productivity and Innovation Board), we can say goodbye to these aches and pains. The new Code of Practice for Office Ergonomics or SS 514 sets recommendations for the design and improvement of work situations to make the office more comfortable and productive.

Ergonomics - What is it?
Ergonomics refers to the study of designing objects such as chairs, keyboards, and workstations so as to align them to the shape of the human body.

As many of us spend a significant amount of time on our personal computers at work, good ergonomics at the work place is critical. By learning the proper way to handle and use office equipment, we can prevent undesirable health problems such as headaches, neck and shoulder pain.

Is your workstation ergonomically designed?
See the figure below for some guidelines and tips that will help to alleviate those aches and pains from poorly designed workstations.

By adopting these recommendations, organisations can instil good posture and work habits. This will lead to fewer health problems such as muscular aches, visual discomfort and work stress, and ultimately, fewer days of absenteeism from work and lower healthcare costs. The end results are better work attitudes, higher productivity and better quality work life for office workers.

For more information, visit www.spring.gov.sg/portal/newsroom/news/releases/05_10_27a.html

Organisations who want to reap the benefits of good office ergonomics can purchase a copy of the standard from SPRING Singapore’s Information Resource Centre, Level 4, 2 Bukit Merah Central, Singapore 159835. You can also order online via SPRING’s eshop @ www.spring.gov.sg/eshop.