The principles of ergonomics are sometimes applied during the design of tools used in the workplace or during the design of workspaces. The goal of ergonomics is to improve safety and comfort of workers and to prevent injuries and reduce healthcare costs. In some workplaces, the goal is to increase productivity.

There are catalogs of ergonomic tools for many jobs and functions. Common workplace tools subject to ergonomic design include:

• Office chair. Sitting for long periods of time can cause increased pressure on the intervertebral discs in the spine and may contribute to a pinched nerve. Chair components that may be specially designed include casters and base, seat pans, backrests and armrests.
  
  
• Desks. Can be raised or lowered depending on a person’s height. Desks should also have ample space underneath to allow for stretching.
  
  
• Computer monitors. Can be raised or lowered so they are positioned at the appropriate eye level. Screens can be purchased to minimize glare.
  
  
• Keyboards. Specially designed keyboards aimed at preventing carpal tunnel syndrome are available.

• Mouse. A computer mouse is often designed to minimize shoulder, elbow, wrist and arm pain.
  
  
• Forearm boards. These devices, attached beneath the front of the desk, keep the arms in a neutral 90-degree position and can help prevent arm and shoulder pain.
  
  
• Telephones. Use of headsets may avert neck pain in those who often are on the phone.
  
  
• Lighting. Lighting that is unsuitable for performing computer applications is a major contributing factor to eyestrain, burning or itching eyes, and blurred or double vision.

Workplaces that are subject to ergonomic design include:

• Offices. A variety of features are considered when designing office environments, such as making sure workstations have adequate space for workers to perform duties and ensuring that lighting is appropriate for the type of work being performed.
  
  
• Laboratories. Laboratory researchers are at risk for repetitive motion injuries due to routine procedures, such as working with microscopes.
  
  
• Industrial workplaces. Many industrial workers are required to lift heavy items on the job. This can be strenuous and requires proper training to be performed safely. Back pain and injuries may be avoided by lifting with the leg muscles instead of the back because leg muscles are larger and stronger. Some workers wear back braces to provide support while lifting. Factory workers on assembly lines may be taught techniques to avoid repetitive motion injuries.
  
  
• Trucking. Long-haul drivers are at risk of sciatica and other types of back pain and leg pain. Stretching and other exercises, manipulation therapy and physical modalities such as thermotherapy and cryotherapy can help in addition to ergonomic modifications.

An ergonomist, occupational therapist or physical therapist can perform a job site analysis to make recommendations that may reduce risk of workplace injuries. Therapists can also conduct a functional capacity evaluation to assess an employee’s ability to work physically.

There are also many ergonomically designed tools for home. These include items widely available in discount and department stores, such as kitchen and garden gadgets with improved, easy-to-grip handles. Other items are available from occupational therapists, physical therapists, medical supply stores or other specialty stores, catalogs and some discount stores. Examples of these goods include bathtub benches, commode chairs, reachers, jar openers, long-handled shoehorns and button hooks.