Ergonomics
Ergonomics is an interdisciplinary field of knowledge that aims to understand the interplay between people and various elements in the working environment in order to optimize working techniques and people’s welfare.
Note: Our ergonomics services are in great demand. The expected waiting time is currently 4-6 weeks. Please make inquires through bht-post@admin.uio.no.
The position of ergonomics in preventive work at UiO
Ergonomics is part of systematic health, safety and environmental work in several areas. The HSE section is tasked to support line management in its work with.
HSE reviews
- Assist management and safety delegates with mapping and evaluating the working environment
Mapping the workplace
- Assist users with planning new workplaces or changing existing workplaces
- Offer advice for the design of a furnishing plan
Building applications
The HSE section assists in the processing of building applications to safeguard HSE matters for new or modernized workplaces that require approval according to § 18-9 of the Working Environment Act.
This also includes HSE reviews of plans to ensure accessibility and arrangements for the physically challenged in accordance with the aims of universal design. Courses, guidance and training in groups are also offered as part of the preventive health work, where better insight and an understanding of the interplay between outer stress/strains and the body’s reaction to these is desirable.
Arranging and designing workplaces
- Assist in designing workplaces. After moving in, a physiotherapist can assist by giving an orientation on the principles for the design and adaptation of workplaces
- Help with the selection of aids/furniture/equipment
- Evaluation of the lighting conditions with respect to health
Strain injuries in relation to working conditions and absence due to illness
If employees develop strain injuries that may be related to their workplace conditions, or if a situation has arisen in which an employee may return to work by means of a graded sickness benefit, a percentage of sickness benefit or a form of internal rehabilitation, advice and guidance with respect to arranging the working conditions will be appropriate. It is recommended that the HSE section physiotherapist be contacted for individual follow-up.
Adaptations for physically challenged employees
The HSE section is able to assist with advice and guidance for arrangements and accessibility at the workplace for employees with various types of physical disabilities.
Arranging computer workstations
The HSE section physiotherapist offers consultancy assistance in the design of computer workstations.