Ergonomic Optical Microscopes
Stereo Microscopes
Optical Microscopes are used for a range of inspection tasks from sterilisation control, to electronics manufacturing, dental work and the study of natural sciences. When we think about microscopes, we often picture a person hunched over, looking into two eyepieces of a conventional microscope. Yet, what we don’t often think about is how the posture of the operator is affected, especially with the repetitive use of optical microscopes.
Employer’s OH&S Responsibilities
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), i.e. injuries to muscles, tendons, ligaments, etc., are commonly caused by poorly designed work stations. Furthermore, injuries such as chronic joint and muscle conditions can take months to heal and costs an estimated $20 billion a year.
The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2007 states that the employer must address the following factors to control MSDs*:
+ Posture
+ Movements
+ Forces
+ Duration and frequency of the task
+ Environmental conditions
Consequently it is critically important that users of optical microscopes are provided with comfortable working stations that reduce the risk of developing MSDs.
The Future of Optical Microscopes
With a larger focus on OH&S compliance and advancements in technology, traditional two-eye piece microscopes are being replaced with more ergonomic options. Products such as Vision Engineering’s Mantis and Lynx Evo range allow the operator to sit up straight, rather than be hunched over. They also allow the user to look into one ‘viewer’, meaning glasses can be worn. Good posture is important.
Patented Technology
Vision Engineering’s patented eyepiece-less Stereo Microscopes are naturally ergonomic because they don’t require special set-up or adjustment. Their unique designs provide:
+ An ergonomic work position: more comfortable, therefore less fatigue and easier to use
+ Freedom of head movement: no need to align eyes with eyepieces, so no fixed body position, resulting in less neck and back strain
+ A natural view of the subject: allows ambient light into the eyes, reducing eye strain as a result
+ Ability to wear glasses: because the user can sit back from the viewer
+ Easy hand-eye coordination: consequently providing much better peripheral vision
The Trusted Choice
With over half a million customers around the world, Vision Engineering Microscopes are the trusted choice for sterilisation departments, electronics manufacturers, dentists, precision engineers and laboratory technicians.
If you’re looking at introducing stereo optical microscopes into your workplace, get in touch with Hawker Richardson for a free demonstration.
*Source: http://www.consoleconcepts.com.au/ergonomic_consoles.html
