Office Ergonomics: Fit the Workstation to the Person

Know the hazard

Team: General Small Business. Topic: Everyday Workplace Safety.

Office work can create strain when the setup forces the same uncomfortable position for hours. A chair, keyboard, or screen that works for one person may not work for another. The goal is a comfortable arrangement that supports neutral positions and allows regular movement.

Use the controls

Adjust the chair so the body is supported and the feet have stable support. Bring the keyboard and pointing device close enough that the shoulders can relax and the elbows stay near the body. Position the screen for comfortable viewing without persistent neck bending or glare. Frequent laptop work may require a separate keyboard, pointing device, and screen arrangement rather than simply tolerating the laptop's fixed geometry.

Work within the safe plan

Keep frequently used items within easy reach, and change position during the day. Short movement opportunities and varied tasks help interrupt prolonged static posture. Report recurring discomfort, tingling, or difficulty working; these are reasons to review the task and seek appropriate assistance. Expensive equipment alone is not a solution if it is never adjusted. Today, we will make one useful change and confirm that the worker understands how to maintain it.

Discuss with the crew

An employee raises a laptop to improve screen height but must now type with elevated shoulders.

Question: Why did one improvement create another problem?
Answer guidance: Screen and keyboard positions are linked on a laptop; raising both can make typing awkward.

Question: What arrangement could help?
Answer guidance: Use separate input devices with a suitable screen height and reassess the full workstation.

Prepare, act, and follow up

Leader preparation: Use a workstation where the employee can demonstrate adjustments without sharing private screen content.

Put it into practice: Make one adjustment chosen by the workstation user and have the person explain what feels different.

Supervisor follow-up: Check comfort after normal work and address any continuing symptoms through the company's reporting process.

Official reference: OSHA — Computer Workstations eTool
https://www.osha.gov/etools/computer-workstations

Awareness briefing. Apply current site procedures and applicable requirements. This talk does not replace required qualification, practical training, exposure assessment, medical evaluation, or a written program.

Suggested session: 5-7 minutes, including discussion and activity. Prepared October 18, 2026; recheck current requirements before use.

Show the crew

Make one adjustment chosen by the workstation user and have the person explain what feels different.