Developing Products with You in Mind
Ergonomics Matters
There is equipment that is designed purely for function, and then there is equipment that performs functions flawlessly and includes the added benefit of ergonomics. Ergonomics are extremely important in the eye care profession for both patient and professional. Neglecting to consider the natural structure of the human body when designing ocular equipment can result in musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) in eye care professionals. MSD symptoms have a higher prevalence among eye care professionals than in the greater working population but there are adjustments that can be made. Ergonomically designed equipment stands out from the rest, because both patient and professional are at ease during examinations and the body is able to rest as it would naturally, thus reducing stress.
It is with this knowledge in mind that Reliance and Haag-Streit are committed to product ergonomics and consequentially, patients’ comfort and health.
Haag –Streit’s new slit lamp table top, and Reliance’s improvement on the 5300 series exam stools are just some examples of ergonomic integration in their professional medical equipment.
Reliance’s 5356 stool model, a part of the 5300 series, has an adjustable back for different patient heights allowing for flexible back support. In addition, all models in this series have a five-leg base in order to ensure even weight distribution and stability for all patients’ builds. However, the 5356 model, unlike other series models, has the improved addition of a 3-way adjustable support arm so patients can allow their bodies to relax naturally during examinations.
Haag-Streit’s new slit lamp tabletop is designed with both patient and professional in mind. The engineering of the new and improved slit lamps works well during operations and lessen fatigue by providing adjustable eyepieces to all papillary distances to make exams more comfortable. This product is versatile and comes in five different models to ensure whatever the use, be it routine practice or in the emergency room; the slit lamp allows for superior examinations.
Continued Partnership in Research
Haag-Streit and Reliance are providing examination equipment for an ergonomic study for the purpose of increasing knowledge concerning the risks of MSD development in eye care professionals and reviewing equipment and techniques that will reduce this risk.
The study is designed to:
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Quantify the levels of MSD risk factors associated with different types and designs of equipment.
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Quantify the levels of MSD risk factors associated with examination techniques.
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Identify current best practices in equipment design and in examination techniques.
Using lab based and field measurements and techniques the study will focus on quantification on the most important MSD factors in ophthalmic work and postural stressors. Primary emphasis will be placed on the slit lamp examination procedure.