If you are reading this, odds are there is probably a computer screen involved. And you may be one of the 400,000 U.S. workers that lost an average of 8 days away from work due to a musculoskeletal injury in 2004, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Work-related injuries due to poor office ergonomics is a constant burden for many companies. When was the last time you or your employees have had a computer station ergonomic evaluation?  If it's been awhile, then try these recommendations from our lead ergonomist Karl Siegfried at MEMIC:

1. Position your head so your ears are over your shoulders
2. Place screen monitor 18-24 inches from your eyes
3. Adjust your monitor’s height so it’s in direct line of your sight
4. Relax your shoulders
5. Keep upper arms in line with your torso
6. Put elbows at 90 degrees and close to the torso
7. Make sure wrists are in neutral posture. They should not be bent up or down.
8. Place mouse on same plane as your keyboard
9. Use a chair with a good lumbar support
10. Keep feet flat on the floor. If your feet do not reach the floor, use a foot rest

For more information, download Office Ergonomics: A Guide to Creating a Safe Office Environment.