The role of the science of ergonomics in WRULDs

The role of the science of ergonomics in WRULDs

Abstract

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR 203 doi:10.1093/occmed/kqp037 Dear Sir, I was delighted to read Burton et al.’s timely paper on work-relevant upper limb disorders and causation, impact and case management in the workplace [1]. Could I make some comments directed primarily at the huge numbers of workers covered by the Display Screen Equipment (DSE) Regulations etc. While I fully endorse the need for a full history and examination (always starting at the neck), in my opinion most workers can be accommodated by reasonable adjustments in the ergonomics of their workstation. My working definition of ergonomics is that ‘its common sense but only when it is pointed out’. I remain concerned at the lack of understanding of most health and allied support professionals of the need for a reasonably detailed knowledge of anthropometrics and its implications—it is the individual ‘matchstick’ components that are important in the DSE setting rather than stature—and the biodynamics of the upper limbs and shoulder girdle in the individuals’ interactions with the DSE data handling devices. This is especially true of the types of keyboard and mouse and making recommendations to ensure maximal comfort and minimal strain. A classic is forearm-related problems, when a ‘cure’ can