Ergonomic requirements for input devices

Abstract

The aim of this literature research was to gather information on ergonomic requirements for input devices that are provided by investigations applying biomechanical criteria. Firstly, international and national standards, guidelines as well as checklist of this topic had been looked for and their propositions were summarised. Secondly, a query on Internet search engines and databases had been conducted. A ranking system for the selected articles had been installed in order to comprehensibly rate the information obtained from each study. For every regarded input device, i.e. keyboard, mouse, trackball, graphic tablet/stylus and additionally forearm/wrist support, biomechanically based assessment parameters were deducted and outlined. Finally, these findings were discussed with respect to the recommendations of the standards and an overall ergonomic design of office workplaces with VDTs. In conclusion, this will lead to the development of a checklist for keyboards and mice that should be evaluated by occupational health practitioner. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2007.