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Ergonomics and the Lab Workstation:Part One

Lab Safety Advisor, May 23, 2006

Ergonomics Basics for the Lab

Part One of a three-part series

Although keyboard and mouse injuries are probably the most common repetitive motion injuries, such injuries can also occur during routine laboratory procedures such as pipetting, working at microscopes, operating microtomes, and using cell counters. Repetitive motion injuries develop over time and occur when muscles and joints are stressed, tendons are inflamed, and nerves are pinched and the flow of blood is restricted. Standing and working in awkward positions in laboratory hoods or biological safety cabinets can also present ergonomic problems. The following lab tasks can cause repetitive motion injuries:

Pipetting. Pipetting is one of the most common tasks performed in a laboratory. It involves several ergonomic stressors-thumb force, repetitive motion, and uncomfortable postures, especially of the wrists, arms, and shoulders. The following are recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for ergonomics hazards associated with the use of pipettes:

  • Use pipettes with newer trigger mechanisms that require less force to activate; use the pointer finger to aspirate and the thumb to dispense.
  • Use pipettes that fit comfortably in the user's hand.
  • For tasks such as mixing or aliquotting, use an electronic pipetter with mixing functions.
  • Use a multichannel pipettor for large aliquotting tasks.
  • Use short pipettes. This decreases hand elevation and consequent awkward postures.
  • Use low profile waste receptacles for used tips. They should be no higher than the top of the tubes being filled.
  • Take micro-breaks of 3-5 minutes for every 20-30 minutes of pipetting. Mild hand exercises and stretches are beneficial.
  • Laboratory personnel should not go from keyboarding to pipetting activities (or vice versa) without an adequate break (at least 15 minutes) to allow the hands to recover.
  • Clean pipetters on a regularly scheduled basis-this reduces "sticking" and improves quality of work.
  • Adjust the workstation or chair so the individual doesn't have to work with arms in an elevated position. Work with arms close to the body.
  • Rotate pipetting activities between laboratory tasks, hands, and people.
  • Use thin-wall pipette tips that fit correctly and are easy to eject.
  • Use minimal force when applying pipette tips.
  • Keep samples and instruments within easy reach.
  • Use an adjustable stool or chair when sitting at a lab bench.
  • If employees must stand for long periods of time during pipetting, provide anti-fatigue floor matting.

Microscopes.The following are recommended by the CDC for control of ergonomic hazards associated with the use of microscopes:

  • Don't use a microscope for more than 5 hours per day. Spread the use out over the entire workday, avoiding long uninterrupted periods of microscope work.
  • Try pulling the microscope toward the edge of the work surface to position the operator in a more upright posture.
  • Use a cut-out work table. This puts you close to the scope and gives an area for supporting forearms.
  • If possible, try elevating the microscope or placing it at an angle so you can look directly into the eyepiece. This can help position the operator in a more upright posture and reduce rounding of the shoulders and neck.
  • Provide arm rests to support the operator's forearms while using adjustment knobs.
  • Use an ergonomically designed chair that provides adequate back support, adjustable height, and an adjustable seat angle.
  • Make sure there is adequate room under the work surface so the operator can pull the chair up to the
    ocular(s).
  • Provide footrests and discourage the use of foot rings on stools.
  • Provide sit-stand seats for areas where there is restricted leg room.
  • Encourage frequent breaks from microscopy work. Encourage employees to take breaks to do stretching exercises.
  • Use television systems, where possible, to eliminate the use of binocular eyepieces.

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