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The goal of ergonomics is to make work more comfortable and to improve both health and productivity. Many ergonomic problems can be fixed by rearranging, adjusting or modifying existing furniture and tools, so don't be in too much of a rush to go out and purchase the next great ergonomic "THING".

One of the easiest to follow guidelines for any office set up is Officewise - A guide to health and safety in the office Developed by the Ergonomics Unit Victorian WorkCover Authority.

Officewise

Creating long, time-consuming design projects and reports, or surfing the Internet for extensive hours could be causing computer users to develop RSI. Most computer users remain unaware of the problems caused by poor posture or workstation design. Generally, people don't exercise or take breaks, which puts extra strain on the musculoskeletal system, making them candidates for computer related injury.

Working in ergonomically designed workplaces or using ergonomically designed products can reduce the stress and excessive physical demands we place on our body, thereby reducing the likelihood of getting RSI symptoms.

Ideal computer workstations should include appropriate lighting, height-adjustable keyboards facilitating a 90-degree angle at the elbows with the wrists naturally extended from the forearm, height-adjustable chairs providing firm lower back support, an appropriate mouse pad placed adjacent to the keyboard to prevent the need for reaching and a document holder attached to the side of the monitor to prevent neck strain.