Telephone Ergonomics

In our world of continuous contact, we often find ourselves using multiple forms of communication simultaneously. It is not uncommon for a person to carry on a phone conversation while typing a report and sending instant messages. Humans only have two hands and typing requires both. So, how do we manage our telephone conversations while working? Usually, the answer is we that squeeze the receiver between our head and shoulder. Not surprisingly, doing this leads to chronic neck, shoulder, and upper back pain disorders. People often purchase shoulder rests for their receivers, but these still require the user to bend their heads which is not ergonomically correct.

The good news is that there are alternatives to the head and shoulder squeeze. When you are not concerned with privacy or professionalism, using your phone’s speaker option allows you to do as you please while carrying on a conversation. For phone conversations you are not comfortable sharing with those around you, a hands-free headset is your best option. Placed securely on your head, this allows you to move around freely in your workspace. They are also easily available and inexpensive.

If you are in a situation where neither of these options is available, remember these rules. Do not squeeze the receiver with your head and shoulder. Use your hand to hold it up to your ear. Try to limit the length of phone conversations so that your arm does not grow tired. If it is a necessarily long conversation, switch ears occasionally so that one arm does not get over used. Position your telephone close to your main working area so that you never have to twist or reach too far. Have a pad of paper and a pen or pencil handy near the telephone for the same reason. Keep the wires untangled and out of the way to avoid leaning too closely into the phone or, even worse, workplace accidents. Many desks and workstations have inconspicuous grommet holes which provide cord management.



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