Computer Ergonomics
Instructional videos and handouts are now available for:
NEW- Sitting and Standing at Your Computer(link is external)
Many people think it is a great idea to purchase a sit-stand desktop unit to work on the computer. Although good in theory, they are not recommended. They do not fit a wide range of users and without realizing it the thickness of the platform elevates the height of the desk, which is already too tall and usually prevents a safe seated posture. The height of the monitor has limited adjustability as well. The desktop units can provide the capability to stand for creative work, and health and wellness, but should not overshadow being able to achieve a good seated posture.
Please contact Be Well at Work Ergonomics before purchasing a sit-stand desktop unit.
Be Well at Work Ergonomics does recommend purchasing a stand-alone height adjustable desk that is part of the pre-approved product list. Matching funds can be utilized for part of the purchase price with a computer workstation evaluation and online training. Watch the video below to learn more about height-adjustable tables.
Ergo Tips For Using Your Mouse
Why it is important:
Ergonomics is the science of fitting jobs to people. One area of focus is on designing computer workstations and job tasks for safety and efficiency. Effective ergonomics design coupled with good posture can reduce employee injuries and increase job satisfaction and productivity.
Computer Ergonomic Risk Factors
Jobs involving computer use may pose ergonomic problems if they include one or more of these risk factors:
- Repetition: doing the same motions over and over again, such as using the mouse
- Awkward Body Postures: maintaining an unsupported fixed or awkward posture such as bending the wrist, reaching forward to type and use the mouse, and sitting in an unbalanced manner.
- Force: physical exertion or pressure applied to any part of the body while working, such as leaning on the wrist while maneuvering the mouse, tightly gripping the mouse, and bracing the telephone handset between the neck and shoulder.
- Contact Stress: pressure on soft tissues of the body, such as the wrist when leaning on the desk or the front edge of the desk.
Not all musculoskeletal risk factors are work-related, including:
- Certain medical conditions: rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, pregnancy, or menopause.
- Free time activities: hobbies or chores that involve repetitive motion, awkward postures, or force for extended periods of time.
- What are the common symptoms of repetitive motion injuries?
Common symptoms of repetitive motion injuries include:
- pain
- numbness and tingling
- stiffness or cramping
- inability to hold objects or loss of grip strength
Symptoms that go away overnight are usually signs of fatigue. Symptoms that are continuous and don't go away overnight may indicate a more serious problem. Those experiencing such symptoms should seek medical attention. Repetitive motion injuries are easier to treat in their early stages. Ignoring symptoms could lead to chronic or serious injury.
Matching Funds Program Update: November 1 - December 19, 2025
The Ergonomics Matching Funds Program will be placed on hold indefinitely beginning January 1, 2026.
Starting November 1, 2025 - December 19, 2025 the program incentive rate will change to a maximum of up to $500 per *employee. The new campus department financial aid rate will be 50% of the cost for approved keyboards and mice and 25% of the cost for approved chairs and desks. Applications will only be approved for one computer workstation - campus or remote.
Funding for this program is limited. Applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Funding reimbursement will be delayed or denied for applications that are incomplete or provide insufficient supporting documentation. The application deadline will be December 19, 2025.
**Must be a UC Berkeley employee (faculty, staff, Postdoc, GSR) receiving payment from the university and with job tasks involving the use of computer work for the university to be eligible. Postdocs and GSRs are only eligible for Matching Funds usage for campus workstations.
Additionally, employees must still complete the online RSS Computer Ergonomics training and self-assessment module for Ergo Matching Funds program eligibility, and should request an evaluation with a campus ergonomist for additional support regarding setting up and/or adjusting workstations as well as recommendations for ergonomic furniture and equipment.