• Optimal work posture is achieved by workstation design.
• Static or fixed working postures should be avoided or if unable to be avoided, the duty requiring the static posture should be only completed for short periods of time.
• Duties should ensure opportunity for a variety of postures to be assumed to encourage a change of muscles used.
• Consider how tasks can be completed in alternate postures.  For example, standing to speak on the phone, using a chest height counter / table to complete reading / editing, standing to obtain printing, adjusting the chair position during meetings, extended periods of reading, speaking on the phone etc.

• Provision of a variety of work to break up intensive periods of computer or laboratory work with other tasks.  Task variety is important for ensuring that a variety of postures, movements and muscle groups are used.
• Can assist with managing physical and mental fatigue which aids concentration and adherence to safe work practices.

• Work breaks can be achieved by ensuring that a variety of work is provided.
• Where the job does not provide adequate breaks through task variation, frequent short breaks involving whole body movement should be completed to restore circulation to relieve muscle fatigue.
• Pause / stretch exercises (create link) should also be completed throughout the day.

• Work pressure to meet a deadline can lead to employees working beyond their physical and psychological capacity, which can result in muscle fatigue and an increase in stress levels.  Adequate planning and resource allocation for peak periods is important to avoid unrealistic physical and psychological demands.

• People have different physical and psychological capacities and requirements.  Providing autonomy in the way, the order and the pace in which tasks are completed is important for managing an individual’s physical and psychological ability.

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