Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 84-417-1745, Minneapolis Police Department, Minneapolis, Minnesota

摘要

A request was made by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees to examine reasons for diagnoses of carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis occurring in the wrists of clerical workers at the Minneapolis Police Department (SIC-9221). Ergonomic measurements were taken from 12 employees of the transcription, homicide, and juvenile departments during normal operating hours. In general, those individuals who reported symptoms were found to type with their wrists in extension (24 degrees) beyond the normal typing position of 10 to 15 degrees. Employees who had been employed for shorter periods of time in the transcription department appeared to be at the greater risk for wrist problems. It is recommended that wrist rests be provided for the typists. Chairs should also be of the kind where quick adjustment of the seat height and the height and angle of the back support are possible. Typing tables must be adjustable in height, have adequate knee clearance horizontally and vertically, and adequate surface areas for the typewriter and documents being processed.