Workstation Design & Setup Flashcards

A user works with both a desktop computer and a microscope at the same workstation. What is the key ergonomic challenge?

Answer: Accommodating two very different posture requirements and optimizing transition between tasks

Computer and microscope work require different head, neck, and arm positions; the workstation must be configured to allow efficient transitioning without sustained awkward postures.

What is the purpose of a negative-tilt keyboard tray in an ergonomic workstation?

Answer: To promote a neutral or slightly extended wrist position by tilting the far edge of the keyboard downward

Negative tilt angles the top of the keyboard away from the user, promoting neutral or slightly extended wrist posture which reduces flexor tendon strain.

When evaluating a workstation for a user who is both left-handed and uses a numeric keypad frequently, where should the mouse be positioned?

Answer: To the left of the keyboard, with the numeric keypad to the right or replaced with a separate keypad on the left

Left-handed users should have the mouse on the left side; if a numeric keypad extends the keyboard to the right, consider a tenkeyless keyboard with a separate left-side keypad.

A workstation assessment reveals that a worker's feet cannot reach the floor when seated at the correct desk and keyboard height. What is the CORRECT intervention?

Answer: Provide an adjustable footrest to support the feet while maintaining proper chair height

An adjustable footrest supports the feet and maintains lower leg circulation while preserving proper chair height for elbow alignment with the keyboard.

Which of the following best describes the 'comfort zone' for monitor placement in relation to screen distance?

Answer: An arm's length away (approximately 20-28 inches), adjusted so text is readable without leaning forward

Monitor distance of approximately 20-28 inches (an arm's length) is the recommended range; the key is that text must be legible without forward head posture.

What ergonomic concern arises when a worker uses a very high-resolution 4K monitor at a small physical size (e.g., 24 inches)?

Answer: Text and UI elements may appear very small, causing the user to lean forward or squint, increasing visual and postural strain

Small physical monitors with very high resolution can render text too small to read comfortably at proper viewing distance, prompting forward head posture.

An ergonomic assessment identifies that a worker's chair armrests are causing the user to shrug their shoulders while working. What is the correct adjustment?

Answer: Lower the armrests so the shoulders are relaxed and elbows rest comfortably at approximately 90 degrees

Armrests set too high force shoulder elevation (shrugging), which increases trapezius muscle load; lowering them allows the shoulders to relax in a neutral position.