Are there any ergonomic challenges when working in a fumehood?
Working in a fumehood (aka Biological Safety Cabinet (BSC)) requires laboratory personnel to assume a variety of awkward postures due to limited work access, which restrict arm movement, and therefore significantly increase the amount of stress on joints of the upper limbs, neck, and back. Associated risk factors include: • Repetitive motions of the hands, wrist, and forearms, especially when pipetting Constrained knee and leg space, especially in fume hoods and older BSCs • Contact pressure on the forearms, wrists and knees, or legs • Awkward and static posture of the neck, torso, legs, arms and wrists • Constrained body position • Overreaching • Prolonged standing in unnatural positions or in restricted postures Preventive measures you can implement immediately or when new equipment is being purchased are: • Place materials as close as possible, avoid extended reaching • Always assume a proper posture, use adjustable chairs/stools with foot and arm rests. • Avoid contact pressure (fo
