The word ergonomic is the study of the interaction between individuals, machines or appliances in their environment that can affect their performance and productivity.

The purpose of ergonomic is to assess the interaction, or relationship between each component for determining optimum performance. Ergonomic therefore examines the relationship between three elements: the individual, the equipment, the environment and how they can be improved.

So what, you may ask?
Ergonomic is usually the focus of ‘work’ as in employment performance, largely in relation to the operation of machines /equipment in the employment environment. However, in view of the current economic climate, there is a growing shift in the employment environment toward self-employment activities. These activities are largely situated within the home, where there is less regulation over manual handling and movement education.

The new area of home-office performance needs closer monitoring through ergonomic awareness and education. This is because many self-employed individuals do not see the dangers inherent in the repetitive operation of most home office equipment and systems.

The most significant equipment to consider is the office chair. A combination of poor postural balance through improper pelvic control, usually caused by lack of physical exercise, creates a cyclical pattern of chronic musculoskeletal injuries.