3ARRANGINGYOUR WORK AREA
Keyboard and Pointing Device
Place your keyboard, mouse, and other input devices, so that you can use them with your body in a relaxed, comfortable position. In this way, you don’t have to reach or shrug your shoulders while working.
Positioning the Keyboard
Position the keyboard directly in front of you to avoid twisting your neck and torso.This makes it possible to type with your shoulders relaxed and your upper arms hanging freely at your sides.
Adjusting the Keyboard Height and Slope
Your elbow height should be near the height of your keyboard’s home row (see illustration under "Shoulders and Elbows"). Adjust your keyboard slope so that your wrists are straight.
Aligning the Mouse and Keyboard
When using a mouse or detached trackball, position the device immediately to the right or left of your keyboard.
Using a Keyboard Tray Comfortably
If you use a keyboard tray, make sure it is wide enough to accommodate your pointing device, such as a mouse or trackball. Otherwise, you will probably place the mouse on your desktop, higher and farther away than the keyboard.This will lead you to stretch forward repeatedly, and uncomfort- ably, to reach the mouse.
RIGHT
Position your pointing device immediately to the right or left of your keyboard.
WRONG!
Don’t position your keyboard and pointing device at different levels and distances.
16