Wellbeing
We are a healthy university. We create an environment that promotes healthy learning, working and living environments. Well to work and injury management and Wellbeing initiatives.
Most people spend more time at work than they do anywhere else. We have a range of support systems available and procedures in place to ensure staff are kept healthy and safe at all times.
To prevent musculoskeletal injuries, learn the correct workstation setup by completing the online Workstation Ergonomics module - now available in Discover in the Health and Safety section.
Setting up your workstation properly can reduce the risk of muscle strain or overuse injuries. Most of these injuries come from little things being maladjusted or performed incorrectly over a long period. Small changes such as adjusting the height of your chair or the distance of your monitor can make a significant difference.
It is important when you are working away from the office that you also consider how you are set up to work. Take a look at this video and tips available on our working from home page.
Watch 'How to set up your workstation in the office.'
Please complete the Workstation Ergonomics online training in Discover and use the workplace ergonomic self-assessment checklist (PDF, 601KB) to review your workstation.
Chair – the correct chair is important. It should have an adjustable back and height and a five point base. When resting on the desktop your wrists should be at the same height or slightly below your elbows and your feet flat on the floor.
Monitor – the monitor needs to be directly in front of you and at eye level. It should also be at arm's length. If you are working with multiple monitors, see general guidelines (PDF, 86KB) for additional information.
Desk – your desk should be high enough to ensure your legs fit underneath and be set up so you don't have to lean for frequently used items such as your telephone, mouse and pens.
Telephone – put your telephone on the opposite side to your mouse and avoid pinching it between your shoulder and ear.
Mouse – your mouse should be within easy reach of the side of your keyboard.
Keyboard – the keyboard should be straight on the desk and the B key in line with the centre of your body.
Laptops – are designed for use for short periods and should not be your primary computer unless you have a docking station with monitor and keyboard.
It is important to take regular breaks to avoid stiffening, blurred vision or headaches. You should stop work to stretch at least three to four times a day. Help your eyes relax by doing vision exercises every 30 minutes.
If you experience pain or are not happy with how your workstation is set up, you can get an individual consultation from the Health and Safety Team. This team can help you with information on what can be done better or advise on customised equipment such as an ergonomic keyboard, footrest or telephone headset. All customised equipment is at the cost your area.
Manual handling is lifting, pushing, pulling, holding, lowering, throwing, carrying, packing, assembling, cleaning, sorting and using tools. If you use correct manual handling techniques you can avoid muscle strain and overuse injuries.
Where possible you should look at ways to limit the strain on your body such as using a trolley or asking a colleague for help.
The steps to proper manual handling are:
You should also stretch before and after.
Manual handling training is available for all staff. See the Health and Safety section of Discover for training dates.
For specialist advice and assistance contact the Health, Safety and Wellbeing Team.
Personal protection is the best way to reduce biting by mosquitoes:
Mosquito facts:
*Source and further information: Hunter New England Population Health
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.