General Ergonomics
This webpage outlines the requirements necessary to prevent or lessen the potential for work-related repetitive injuries at the University of New Mexico. It is designed to provide information to the University faculty, staff, and students about the preventative measures necessary to avoid musculoskeletal injuries and the risk factors that can cause or aggravate those disorders. The purpose of this webpage is to improve employee well being through the reduction of workplace discomfort by the identification and correction of ergonomic hazards. This webpage applies to all University employees.
Ergonomic Complaints - Almost everyone becomes fatigued at some time or another while working at a computer. Workers who must lift and move material may complain of back soreness, fatigue, or pains. Some employees may also experience occasional aching, cramping or soreness. While this does not necessarily indicate the presence of a repetitive motion injury, these early warning symptoms may indicate that an underlying problem needs correction.
Employee discomfort that lasts more than two weeks or that affects job performance should be reported to a supervisor. The employee should consult with the supervisor or medical professional if there is severe or chronic pain. This includes pain, soreness, or burning sensations numbness or tingling fatigue, weakness, or stiffness, frequent headaches, eye discomfort, and discomfort in the neck, shoulders, upper back, wrists, hands, lower back, hips, or legs.
Ergonomic Hazards - Conditions that lead to biomechanical stresses have been identified over 100 years ago. Recent changes in the way work is done have led to an increased interest in biomechanics (ergonomics). Such hazards include, but are not limited to, faulty workstation layout, incorrect work methods and postures, improper lifting, and overuse of poorly designed tools. It may also include job design problems that include aspects of repetitive workflow, excessive speed demands, poor postures, force requirements, and the lack of work or rest cycles. These hazards also exist in the home environment, and with many sports activities.
NOTE: The information contained in this program is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. SRS recommends that employees consult with a health care professional at the Employee Occupational Health Services.