Spencer Safety Solutions

When I was completing my Health & Safety degree, I had to write a report on an ergonomic issue. I wrote one on the hazards of laptops. Even writing this now, I am using a laptop computer.

My report basically said there is no safe way to use a laptop on its own. Only by adding external devices can a laptop become ergonomically sound, especially when we think about ergonomics in the office. Let’s evaluate this.

Desktop vs. Laptop

A desktop computer is easier to set up safely. You can independently adjust the monitor, keyboard, and mouse to fit your posture. The trade-off, of course, is portability.

With a laptop, the monitor and keyboard are attached. If you raise the monitor to eye level, the keyboard is too high. If the keyboard is at a comfortable height, the monitor is too low — leaving you looking down and risking “tech neck.” Chair adjustments don’t solve this problem. This is one of the biggest challenges in office ergonomics today.

Making a Laptop Ergonomic

To make your laptop setup safe in the office:

• Laptop riser – elevates the monitor to eye level.

• External keyboard – keeps arms and shoulders in a neutral, relaxed position.

• External mouse – allows proper wrist and hand placement.

• Chair adjustment – now becomes meaningful once your screen and keyboard are at proper levels.

These adjustments bring your laptop setup closer to proper ergonomic office standards.

Key Office Ergonomic Set Up

No matter what type of computer you are using, there is a simple way of setting up your computer.

• Monitor: the height should be set where the top of the monitor is at about eye level. Having multiple monitors is also helpful if you are switching between screens often. If you have multiple screens, the joint of the two screens should be right in front of you.
• Keyboard: the height should be set at a level where your shoulders are not raised and your elbows are at an angle of just over 90 degrees. You may need to install a keyboard tray to accommodate this, especially at a permanent desk.
• Chair: the height of your chair should accommodate the angle of your arms, but you also want to make sure your hips and knees are also just over 90 degrees. You can also use a foot rest if your feet do not rest flat on the floor.
• Mouse: you want your mouse just beside your keyboard so you are not stretching your arm too much.
• Reach zones: anything you use more than 75% of the time should be within easy reach. Avoid extreme joint angles — no more cradling the phone between your ear and shoulder while typing.

These practices are the foundation of healthy ergonomics in the office, helping workers reduce fatigue and prevent injury.

Final Thoughts

Work shouldn’t hurt. If you experience discomfort at your desk, it’s time to have your workstation assessed. Talk to your supervisor about arranging an ergonomic assessment — and call Spencer Safety Solutions to help you improve ergonomics in the office and reduce further risk.

For further information, check out this information on The Modern Office.