Office Ergonomics & Computer Workstations Flashcards

What is the recommended lumbar support height in an ergonomic office chair?

Answer: Between the iliac crest and the bottom of the rib cage (6–10 inches above seat)

Lumbar support positioned 6–10 inches above the seat pan targets the natural inward curve of the lumbar spine, maintaining lordosis during seated work.

Armrests that are set too high primarily cause which ergonomic problem?

Answer: Shoulder elevation and trapezius muscle tension

Armrests that are too high force the shoulders upward in a shrugged position, creating chronic static load in the trapezius and levator scapulae.

What percentage of the workday does OSHA suggest as a maximum continuous seated computer work before a break is recommended?

Answer: No more than 100% with microbreaks every hour

OSHA recommends short, frequent micro-breaks (5 minutes per hour) rather than limiting total proportion, to address cumulative static loading.

Which monitor characteristic most directly affects the ergonomic risk of eye strain and visual fatigue?

Answer: Refresh rate and resolution

Higher refresh rates (≥60 Hz) and sufficient resolution minimize flicker and pixelation, both key drivers of visual fatigue during extended computer use.

The preferred keyboard placement for a seated computer worker is:

Answer: On an adjustable keyboard tray below desk height at elbow level

An adjustable keyboard tray allows the keyboard to be positioned at elbow level with a slight negative tilt, reducing wrist extension and shoulder elevation.

Dual-monitor setups are best configured ergonomically when the user primarily uses one monitor by:

Answer: Centering the primary monitor in front and angling the secondary monitor to the side

Centering the primary monitor directly in front reduces chronic neck rotation, with the secondary angled to minimize deviation when occasional reference is needed.