 | The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
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| The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
Eileen Mason, PhD, CSP, CIH, Department of Occupational Safety and Health, Murray State University, 157 Industry & Technology Center, Murray, KY 42071 and Sophie Kelly Thompson, MHS, CT(ASCP), Department of Medical Laboratory and Radiation Sciences, Old Dominion University, Cytotechnology Program, 209 Spong Hall, Norfork, VA 23529, 757-683-3016, sxthomps@odu.edu.
ABSTRACT: Numerous professions consist of sitting at a microscope to evaluate slides, blood samples, computer chips, component parts, etc. Because of the inherent flawed design of the microscope, musculoskeletal discomfort in the user may occur.
In one study involving laboratory professionals evaluating cell samples for cancer, over 85% of the cytotechnologists report some degree of musculoskeletal discomfort occasioned by poor ergonomic design of the workstation. A well-designed ergonomic program may reduce errors and increase laboratory productivity as well as the comfort of laboratory personnel. Instruction in basic ergonomics and problem solving should be included in all laboratory programs.
Fortunately, once employees are made aware of factors leading to ergonomic stress, they are often able to identify many useful ergonomic improvements. In this way, they can maintain and often improve upon initial ergonomic changes recommended by consultants.
Critical spatial relationships to be introduced for good design of the microscopy workstation include:
· height and angle of the eyepiece, relative to the user’s eyes · height of the table surface relative to the user’s normal elbow position · height of the focusing and mechanical stage controls relative to the table surface · horizontal distance from the user to the controls · height of the user’s chair and degree of lumbar support · new ergonomic microscopes
In cases where the purchase of new, ergonomically correct microscopes is not feasible, after-market aids such as arm rests, padded counters, and foot rests can greatly increase the comfort and productivity of microscopists. Selected aids will be discussed.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Ergonomics,
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.