Activities conducted in a lab, such as using pipettes and microscopes can put stress on your body. Use the following tips to lower your exposure to risk:

Be Aware of Your Posture

• Sit against the back of your chair.
  • If you sit back and your feet dangle, lower the chair, adjust the foot ring, or get a footrest.
• Try tilting the seat forward or use a seat wedge to work in a forward posture without leaning or jutting your head forward.
• Try to work at a bench cut out.
  • Cut outs can help you get close to your work while sitting against the back of your chair.
• Do not push your chin forward when working. Adjust the position of your work, the work-surface, or the chair to sit in an upright, supported position.
• Keep frequently used trays and supplies within close reach.
• If standing for long periods, use supportive shoes and cushioned mats.

Keep Arms and Hands Relaxed

• Keep your shoulders relaxed and your elbows close to your sides when working.
• Avoid reaching out to use instruments and work materials.
• Maintain neutral or aligned wrist and arm postures when working.
• Sit close to your work area, keep objects close, and adjust your chair to match the height of the bench.
• Avoid repetitive or forceful twisting and turning motions (i.e. opening valves or adjusting microscopes).
• Make sure valves and knobs are clean and in good working order.
• Work with your wrist in a neutral or straight position as if you were shaking hands with someone.
• Use light pressure when performing tasks such as pipetting.
• Use electronic pipettes or light touch models whenever possible.
• Select equipment and tools that are the right size for your hand.
• Use padding and tubing to reduce pressure and force when working.
  • For example, use rubber tubing on forceps to increase diameter and reduce pinch force.
  • Soften sharp edges on work surfaces with padding.
• Use thin, flexible gloves that fit properly.
  • Ill fitting and poorly designed gloves increase pinch and grip forces when working.

Avoid Static Positions

• Weight shift often when standing to work.
• Use a stool or shelf to prop up a foot to relieve pressure on your back.
• If standing in one spot for long periods, use cushioned floor mats or shoes with good support.
• Alternate how you hold objects like forceps.
  • Switch holding with the thumb and index finger, and the index and middle fingers to vary the task.
• Vary activities.
  • Change your position and take breaks every 20 minutes to rest muscles to rest and increase blood flow and circulation.