CES Office & Computer Ergonomics 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the recommended monitor height for a seated computer user to minimize neck strain?
- Top of the screen at or slightly below eye level (Correct answer)
- Screen center at eye level
- Monitor positioned above eye level
- Monitor placed at desk surface level
Correct answer: Top of the screen at or slightly below eye level
Positioning the top of the monitor at or slightly below eye level allows the user to gaze slightly downward, maintaining natural cervical spine curvature and reducing neck extension.
Question 2: Which keyboard position is recommended to minimize wrist extension during typing?
- Flat or slightly negative tilt (front edge higher than back) (Correct answer)
- Steep positive tilt (back edge higher than front)
- Vertical orientation
- No tilt preference exists
Correct answer: Flat or slightly negative tilt (front edge higher than back)
A flat or slightly negative keyboard tilt encourages wrist neutral or slight flexion, avoiding the wrist extension that occurs with a positively tilted keyboard and increases carpal tunnel pressure.
Question 3: What is the correct elbow angle for a seated computer worker using a keyboard at the correct height?
- Approximately 90-110 degrees (right angle or slightly open) (Correct answer)
- 60 degrees (acute angle)
- 140 degrees (widely open)
- Full extension at 180 degrees
Correct answer: Approximately 90-110 degrees (right angle or slightly open)
A 90-110 degree elbow angle allows the forearms to rest near horizontal with relaxed shoulder muscles, reducing upper extremity loading during keyboard use.
Question 4: Why is a document holder recommended for workers who reference paper documents while typing?
- It positions documents near the monitor to reduce repetitive head turning and neck strain (Correct answer)
- It keeps the desk surface clear for other tasks
- It prevents documents from being contaminated
- It is required by OSHA for all computer workstations
Correct answer: It positions documents near the monitor to reduce repetitive head turning and neck strain
Placing a document holder adjacent to the monitor at the same height and distance reduces the repetitive head rotation and neck flexion that occurs when looking between the desk and screen.
Question 5: What is the recommended viewing distance from the eyes to the monitor for most computer tasks?
- 18-30 inches (approximately arm's length) (Correct answer)
- 6-12 inches
- 36-48 inches
- Greater than 4 feet
Correct answer: 18-30 inches (approximately arm's length)
A viewing distance of 18-30 inches reduces accommodative strain on the eyes and allows workers to read screen content without leaning forward or squinting.
Question 6: Which type of chair adjustment is most critical for preventing lower back discomfort in prolonged seated work?
- Lumbar support height and depth adjustment (Correct answer)
- Armrest color selection
- Seat pan upholstery material
- Chair base caster size
Correct answer: Lumbar support height and depth adjustment
Proper lumbar support positioned at the lumbar curve maintains lordosis and reduces disc pressure and muscle fatigue during extended sitting.
CES Office & Computer Ergonomics 1
What is the recommended monitor height for a seated computer user to minimize neck strain?