Lab and research staff may experience ergonomic strain from factors like workbench height, posture, repetition, excessive force, contact stress, vibrations, pinch grip, and the amount of time you spend doing research activities.

To help prevent ergonomic strain:

• Store frequently used items within reach.
• Use a fully adjustable lab chair with back support and a footrest. Adjust the arms to be parallel to the floor and ensure the legs fit comfortably under the table.
• Limit the amount of time you spend at cryostat stations and take breaks.
• When working inside biological safety cabinets, keep work materials within your reach and support your feet.
• Raise computer-controlled equipment like flow cytometers to avoid reaching too far or flexing your neck during specimen processing.
• Use an ergonomic manual or electronic pipette to increase neutral thumb motions and reduce static force and pressure on your hands.
• When using microtomes, use an ergonomically designed chair with adjustable height and back support. You may need to raise or lower the microtome to reduce bending your wrist upward and thrusting your shoulder forward.
• During microscopy, use height adjustable lab tables and chairs to reduce neck and shoulder strain from thrusting your head and neck upward and forward.