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GUIDELINES: • General • Workstation • Laboratory • Other Occupations • Home, Sports, & Hobby • ErgoKids Program • Ergonomics & Aging

Continuous use of a laptop significantly increases your risk for a potentially disabling illness called Cumulative Trauma Disorder. Therefore, apply the ergonomics principles listed below to avoid this painful condition. Do not forget to take a micro break at least once an hour to stretch the upper body. And please, read our article on laptop use which explains the problems which arise from laptop use in greater detail.

1. Attach an external mouse and keyboard whenever possible. A PS/2 "Y" cable or USB hub might be necessary to attach both input devices. Sources for these are listed on the laptop products webpage. In some cases, such as with the IBM Think Pad, splitter cables and "Y" cables do not work. In that case, it's generally possible to use two ports on the laptop to plug in the mouse and keyboard. If there is a USB and a PS/2 port, purchase devices with compatible connectors, one of each type.
2. Keep the keyboard and mouse at the edge of the worksurface that is set 1" below or equal to your sitting elbow height. If the worksurface is not adjustable, use a keyboard tray to hold external devices at the correct height. Please refer to the laptop products webpage for information about small, height adjustable tables you can set up in your home.
3. Move the laptop close enough so you do not hold your head forward to see what is on the screen.
4. Raise the laptop so the top of the screen is at your straight-ahead vision. We suggest you use one of the adjustable monitor stands or laptop holders when you have a fixed workstation where you use the laptop.
5. Sit back in the chair and keep your head directly over your shoulders.
6. Do not lean on the worksurface while typing; keep your elbows in line with your shoulders, hanging loosely at your sides.
7. Never drop your wrists on the "wristrest" of the laptop. Instead, move your hands freely across the keyboard; keep hands in line with elbows.
8. Use keyboard commands whenever possible.
9. Avoid reflective lighting. Adjust screen brightness to a comfortable level.
10. Keep screen clean at all times.

When traveling (with a laptop):

1. Refrain from packing non-essential items or extra gadgets (but don't forget the mouse).
2. Avoid working on the hotel bed or at a high table.
3. Use a small pillow to support your lower back in the car/on the plane.
4. Carry the laptop in a backpack instead of a shoulder or handbag. There are many options on the market. Some we have found to be good are shown on the laptop products webpage.
5. If you must use the laptop without external devices and monitor stand, it is best used in your lap (as it was designed!) or on a worksurface no higher than 27". We recommend the Lapworks Laptop Desk Ultralite or v2.0 with "mouz pad" shown on the laptop products webpage for convenient ways to support your laptop at a workstation or while traveling.
6. Support your feet with a portable footrest (or pillow or baggage) if your knees are much lower than your hips and your low back is not being supported.