Office Organization Overview

The physical layout of your work area is one of the most important factors in reducing the risk of an ergonomic injury. Here a few things to consider when designing or redesigning your work area. Locate the objects that you work with based on the following: Your immediate work area should be kept clear to accommodate the task at hand. Locate objects based on your handedness to avoid twisting or reaching across your body. Light weight, low use objects should be located outside of your immediate work area. Heavy and/or high use objects should be located within arms reach of your work area Group together items used for the same task to avoid unnecessary, excessive motions. Place heavy items where they are easy to manage. Vertically position heavy items at elevations between your knees and shoulders to avoid bending at the waist and overhead reaching. Avoid placing heavy items in overhead bins. Place heavy items so that they can be slid into position rather than lifted (e.g., at desk level rather than on a shelf). Allow yourself space to move freely about your work area. A clear work area allows items to be placed where they are most comfortable, rather than by where they will fit. Clear space under your desk will allow you to roll yourself into a proper position rather than twisting and reaching. Consider obtaining equipment that will help you conserve space in your work area and give you easy access to tools (e.g., organizers, bulletin boards, support arms, moveable trays).