Ergonomics of computer work – with practical advice

Working at a computer can cause back, neck, shoulder and wrist pain, as well as eyestrain. The right sitting posture, an ergonomic workspace and targeted, preventive exercises reduce the risks of these issues or even prevent them altogether. Learn all about it in this course.

This practical workshop with a maximum of 15 participants takes place in your own workplace. At the end of the two-hour workshop, there are two options for an extra session:

• Practical application as a group (2 hours)
  We visit a number of workstations as a group.

• Individual advice (4 hours)
  You receive individual advice for your specific workstation (max. 10 participants per day).

It is preferable that you attend this session in person, but an online video session via MS Teams is also possible.

Theory

• Good basic sitting and working posture
• Practical tips to prevent neck and shoulder pain and eyestrain
• Smart ways to cope with developing back and muscle pain
• Step-by-step plan for setting up your workstation (table/desk, chair) and adjusting your monitor, keyboard, mouse, laptop, etc.
• Preventive exercises when working at a computer for a stronger back
• Practical application

You will be given an activity book with a step-by-step plan for adapting your workstation, exercises, theory and room for notes.

Practical advice

• Visit to the workstation(s) with an expert
• Demonstration of ergonomic working conditions
• Focal areas, improvements tips and practical advice

In this course, you learn how to work ergonomically when using a computer. After completing this course:

• You will know what causes lower back pain, neck pain and other physical ailments.
• You will understand the importance of good body awareness and the right balance between workload and work capacity.
• You will know the ergonomic basic postures and principles when working at a computer and adapt them to both your work and home situation.
• You will know preventive exercises for a stronger back and when experiencing developing back and muscle pain.
• You will know the preventive ergonomic (workstation) adjustments.
• You will be able to apply and practice preventive measures.
• You will understand the step-by-step plan in the activity book and be able to do the exercises described.
• You will have an understanding of the setup of general workstations or – if you opt for individual advice – your own daily workstation, with a focus on the right ergonomic posture.

VDU workers.

New employees must receiving training in how to properly set up their workstation. The Codex on computer work also states that all employees must be informed about the risks and measures taken.

Training courses on how employees can properly set up or adjust their workstation are worthwhile for both new and experienced employees. Proper use of a desk chair, table and monitor requires repetition and permanent awareness to bring about lasting behavioural change.

More info >

Since early 2016, the mandatory periodic health surveillance for VDU employees has been abolished. Instead, it is now sufficient to conduct a risk analysis for VDU employees every five years. You can have your employees conduct this analysis using our online tool: the e-Coach for screen-related work.

The price depends on how you participate in the training course.

If your organisation is affiliated with Mensura External Service for Prevention and Protection at Work (ESPPW) and you have prevention units, you can pay with these as long as your balance is sufficient.

We qualify for all kinds of subsidies and financing options because we are certified by many government agencies and sector funds.