Operator Interface Mounts and Arms

Operator interface mounts and operator interface arms are articulating components used to hold and position industrial computer monitors, keyboards, or other operator interfaces. Operator interface mounts and arms are designed to improve the physical/spatial relationships between machines and the humans that operate them. This science of these relationships, called ergonomics, is the study of human/machine interactions. Ergonomically-compatible products are designed to maximize productivity and minimize operator fatigue, discomfort, and injury. The goal of using operator interface mounts and arms as part of an ergonomics program is to reduce injuries, illnesses, and musculoskeletal disorders in the workplace.

Several of the most common types of ergonomic operator interface mounts and operator interface arms products include computer accessories (e.g., keyboard drawer, mouse tray, glare screen, wrist rest, and monitor support arm) and workstation accessories (e.g., instrumentation booms, articulating supports, foot rests, chairs, document stands). A monitor support arm is a type of operator interface mount that is designed to support computer screens or monitors in work stations, control centers, and operating theaters. A support arm should combine stability and full adjustability to meet the operator’s needs. A support arm can be a desk, wall, ceiling, or mobile mounting arm. Articulating supports are movable support arms so that a user can readjust positioning for the height or location of monitors and equipment in relation to the user’s eyes or hands. Keyboard drawers are used to store unused keyboards. A monitor drawer mounts an LCD and keyboard within a rack frame or enclosure so that a monitor can be folded down and stored when not in use. Instrumentation booms are another type of operator interface mounts and arms. This type of operator interface mount is used to support various types of equipment, including computer or industrial monitors, video equipment, and manufacturing equipment.

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has a four-pronged, comprehensive approach to ergonomics, including operator interface mounts and arms, that is designed to quickly and effectively address musculoskeletal disorders in the workplace. The OSHA approach includes industry or task specific guidelines, enforcement actions, outreach and assistance activities, and a national advisory committee.

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