Mounting & Mobility Products

Ergonomics: Before and After

Wellness Tips

Correct placement of a monitor and keyboard can reduce eye, arm, shoulder and neck fatigue. Follow these tips whenever working at a computer workstation. The principles detailed here can be adapted to most any workstation: sitting or standing; CPU/display or laptop.

Display & keyboard placement

  • Adjust monitor so that the top of the screen is at or slightly below eye level (1). Your eyes should look slightly downward when viewing the middle of the screen
  • Position the screen no closer than 20 inches (50 cm) from your eyes (1). A good rule of thumb is an arm’s length distance. The larger your screen, the more distance you will want
  • Adjust screen position to eliminate glare from windows and ceiling lights
  • If lighting conditions permit, tilt the monitor back 10° to 20° (1): this maintains the same distance between your eyes and the screen as you scan it from top to bottom. If using bifocals, lower the monitor below eye level and turn screen upward, tilting it back 30° to 45°
  • The top of the keyboard should be level with the height of your elbow (2)
  • Tilt the keyboard back 10° so that your wrists remain flat (2)

Good habits

  • Periodically adjust the position of your monitor, keyboard or chair to stay flexible (1, 2, 3). Your body makes slight reflexive changes in posture throughout the day so you should use adjustable equipment that can adapt to these changes
  • Use an adjustable chair; change position as needed. Pay attention to posture (3)
  • Rest your eyes periodically by focusing on an object 20+ feet away
  • Stand and stretch your back and arms from time to time
  • Position whatever you are looking at most of the time (the screen or reference material) directly in front of you to minimize turning your head