AEP AEP Workplace Design and Intervention 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: In office ergonomics, the recommended viewing distance from a worker's eyes to the computer monitor is approximately:
- 10–15 inches
- 18–30 inches (Correct answer)
- 32–40 inches
- 45–50 inches
Correct answer: 18–30 inches
A monitor distance of 18–30 inches (arm's length) reduces eye strain while maintaining comfortable neck posture.
Question 2: What is the primary ergonomic benefit of a split or contoured keyboard design?
- Reduces keystroke force required
- Allows typing at higher speeds
- Reduces ulnar deviation and wrist extension (Correct answer)
- Provides tactile feedback for each key
Correct answer: Reduces ulnar deviation and wrist extension
Split keyboards allow each hand to be positioned more naturally, reducing ulnar deviation of the wrists compared to a standard flat keyboard.
Question 3: For a worker who alternates between sitting and standing, an adjustable-height desk is recommended to transition to standing approximately how often?
- Every 20–30 minutes (Correct answer)
- Every 2–3 hours
- Once per day
- Only when the worker feels discomfort
Correct answer: Every 20–30 minutes
Transitioning between sitting and standing every 20–30 minutes helps maintain circulation and reduce static loading on the spine.
Question 4: An anti-fatigue mat is MOST beneficial for workers who:
- Sit at a desk for 8 hours
- Stand on hard flooring for extended periods (Correct answer)
- Perform repetitive overhead reaching
- Carry heavy loads frequently
Correct answer: Stand on hard flooring for extended periods
Anti-fatigue mats encourage subtle leg movements and reduce lower limb fatigue for workers who stand on hard surfaces for long durations.
Question 5: Which anthropometric measurement is MOST relevant when determining the appropriate height of a work surface for a seated operator?
- Shoulder height seated
- Popliteal height
- Elbow height seated (Correct answer)
- Eye height seated
Correct answer: Elbow height seated
Elbow height seated determines the optimal work surface height to allow the worker to maintain a neutral elbow and shoulder posture.
Question 6: Which lighting level (in foot-candles) is commonly recommended for general office tasks like reading and writing under OSHA and IES guidelines?
- 5–10 foot-candles
- 30–50 foot-candles (Correct answer)
- 100–150 foot-candles
- 200–300 foot-candles
Correct answer: 30–50 foot-candles
The Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) recommends approximately 30–50 foot-candles for general office task areas.
In office ergonomics, the recommended viewing distance from a worker's eyes to the computer monitor is approximately: