Ergonomics of Workstations and the NCIDQ Exam

Spending eight hours per day at the office could make your workstation a potential place of discomfort. We found this great blog that outlines four ways to improve the ergonomics of workstations:

1. Chair. Specify an adjustable chair that gives the user lumbar support while keeping their back straight.
2. Monitor. Reduce eye strain by positioning the monitor at a distance suitable to the eye strength of the employee. For example, avoid placing a monitor in a location where light sources will directly affect the employee’s eyes.
3. Keyboard and mouse. Keep the keyboard at the same height as the employee’s elbow. Slant the keyboard at a similar angle as the employee’s forearm to keep wrists straight.
4. Space. The space allocated to each employee should be large enough to allow free movement within the workstation.

Following these tips can help improve employees' health and comfort, resulting in happier and more productive workers.

Why should designers taking the NCIDQ Exam be concerned with Ergonomics?

On the Interior Design Fundamentals Exam, ergonomics is part of IDFX Content Area 2. Human Behavior and the Designed Environment, 10 Items – 10%
For example:

• Influences (environmental, social, psychological, cultural, aesthetic, global)
• Human factors (e.g., ergonomics, anthropometrics, proxemics)
• Sensory considerations (e.g., acoustics, lighting, visual stimuli, color theory, scent, tactile)
• Universal Design
• Special population considerations (e.g., Aging in Place, pediatric, special needs)

Hi Qpractice Team! I passed all three exams this season! Feeling very good and proud! Couldn't have done it without Qpractice modules & the mock exams were crucial!

Sarah Taylor

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