Computer Workstation Ergonomics
Workplace Ergonomics is the science of ensuring that the physical workplace is optimised to suit the shape and size of each individual’s body, to minimise any discomfort (or pain). Once good ergonomics are established, this can also lead to an increase in the efficiency and productivity of the individual concerned.
Ergonomics Services
Joyworkz offer the following ergonomic options:
1. Workstation Assessor Training
This comprehensive, yet practical, training programme is designed to equip Office Managers, HR Personale and Health & Safety committee members etc. with the skills and confidence to conduct Workstation Assessments for their own staff. Training takes approximately 5 hours: A 2.5 hour theory session – based on a 45-page training manual, followed by 1-2 “real-life” practical coaching sessions, over about 2 hours.
2. Single Workstation Assessment for Chronic or Acute pain cases
If an individual staff member is carrying high levels of discomfort, our experienced assessor can carry out a comprehensive workstation assessment to help minimise their discomfort while working at their computer workstation.
What is a Workstation Assessment?
A workstation assessment is a comprehensive process that aims to identify and correct any poor ergonomic settings and practises which could be causing current chronic or acute discomfort (or pain). Computer work is commonly associated with neck, shoulder, back or arm pain, as well as with fatigue and eyestrain. Even small changes made to your staff’s workstations and work practices can improve their productivity, whilst ensuring discomfort, pain and injury are minimised.
Types of Ergonomic Assessments available for Chronic or Acute pain cases:
- Individual Workstation Assessment (conducted at Company office)
- Individual Home Office Ergonomic Assessment (conducted at Home-office)
- Individual Home Office Ergonomic Assessment (conducted via Zoom meeting)
Joyworkz Ergonomic Assessment includes:
- An initial self-assessment questionnaire that highlights current areas of discomfort
- Office Desk design, size and height settings (including standing desks)
- Chair set up, adjustments and correct seated posture
- Monitor screen(s) / Laptop positioning
- Footrests, keyboards & copyholders
- Correct type of mouse & positioning
- Telephone / Headset check
- Lighting / Air-conditioning and other environmental factors
- Helpful postural advice
- Appropriate stretching and rest break advice
- A Written Report which includes:
- A summary of all changes and adjustments made at the time of the assessment
- Any ergonomic hardware that may be required to correct existing discomfort
- An assessment of environmental conditions that could be contributing to staff discomfort
3. One Hour “Be a Happy Computer User” seminar/webinar
Equip staff with the skills to avoid computer related discomfort. This one-hour seminar (or webinar) provides information about the causes of computer related pain. It then outlines the steps required for someone to set up their own workstation successfully with optimal ergonomic settings and appropriate hardware (both in the office and/or working from home). Finally, it discusses the need for regular movement and helpful stretching during the day.
This training can be presented either “in-person” at your office or as a webinar (via Zoom).
4. One Hour “Work Ergonomics and Manual Handling” seminar/webinar
Does your workplace have staff that carry out computer activities alongside manual handling duties? If so, you will be aware that both activities can result in varying degrees of discomfort and/or injury. This seminar provides information about the causes of both computer and manual handling related pain. It then outlines the steps required to:
1. Help you set up your Workstation successfully (with optimal ergonomic settings).
2. Help prepare, both body and mind, for manual handling (light) duties.
This training can be presented either “in-person” at your office or as a webinar (via Zoom).
5. “Do it yourself” Computer Workstation Set Up
If an individual has installed their own workstation (e.g. home office) and would like to ensure that the basic ergonomics are set up properly, then these FREE “DIY Basic Computer Workstation Set Up” instructions will be helpful.
Trainer/assessor/presenter expertise:
Our assessor/trainer/presenter is very experienced (over 10,000 assessments completed during the last 15 years), professionally trained in the management of discomfort, pain & injury (Diploma, NZCM) and is an NZQA work-station assessment accredited practitioner (NZQA standard 17591).
All training/seminars/assessments comply with:
- Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA)
- Guidelines for using computers, ACC 5637(Nov 2010)
- AS/NZS 4442 – 2018, Office desks, office workstations and tables intended to be used as office desks
Ergonomic Training Feedback
Ross was fantastic at conveying information and moved at a great pace which maintained a consistent level of attention. The Joyworkz website will be a great resource to me. Thanks for creating such a fantastic resource with a variety of information. Amy McNaught, Tower Insurance.
A fantastic course! Ross answered all questions really clearly and explained everything in an easy to understand way. His approach is fantastic. Kim Morris, Bevie
The training was great. There were so many areas that I had not thought about! Yvonne Walker, Hobbiton Movie Set Tours
Ross was very helpful and answered all our questions in an informative way. He was very hands on – which helped met to learn by experiencing. Reegan Hill, Woods Ltd
Great training by Ross. He is a very knowledgeable trainer and the practical tips were very helpful. Hannes Strydom, Tower Insurance.
Thankyou Ross for the information. I have all the tools I need to start doing assessments! Training was informative and I learnt heaps! Ross was very thorough and very clear. Sheena Fatialofa, HealthWest
Ross was very personable and had a great depth of knowledge. He was able to suggest options and alternatives easily and delivered the training in an interesting and engaging manner. Jenny Williams, Dairy Nutraceuticals Limited
I liked both sessions of the training but especially the practical part of it when clients adjusted to the (new) requirements. Joseph Wambia, PricewaterhouseCoopers New Zealand Ltd
Very easy to follow, Great hands-on session and guidance. Ngaire Clayton, Kristin School
Really enjoyed this workshop. The facilitator kept us engaged throughout the session. I have come away confident that I can undertake a professional (workstation) assessment. Megan Ranford, South Taranaki District Council
Health and safety compliance
The Health and Safety at Work Act (2015) requires the PCBU (Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking) to take responsibility for the health and safety of anyone working for them. They are required, so far as is reasonably practicable, to provide and maintain a work environment that is without risks to health and safety. They are also required to provide adequate facilities at work and monitor the health of workers and the conditions at the workplace to prevent illness or injury. Providing ergonomic assessments for your staff helps you to meet these obligations.
Joyworkz 