Typing Etiquettes

Positioning the Keyboard
• The keyboard should be placed directly in front of the body to avoid twisting the neck and torso.
• The keyboard should be positioned in front of the computer monitor with the letters G & H approximately in line with your navel. This is particularly good positioning when doing a lot of keyboard work.
• The keyboard should be positioned according to the distance the forearms extend from the neutral position of the elbows by the side of the body.
Keyboard Height and Slope
• Arms should be parallel to the floor when placed gently on the keyboard. The seated elbow height should be a little higher than the height of the keyboard. Raise or lower the office chair to achieve this position.
• The slope of the keyboard should be as close to the flat position as possible. It is largely determined by what feels comfortable; however there should be a good straight alignment across the forearms, wrists and hands.
Providing a keyboard without a numeric pad can reduce the keyboard width and allow the mouse to be operated closer to the user.
Using a Keyboard Platform
• If a keyboard platform is used it should be large enough to accommodate both the keyboard and mouse on the same level.
• If the keyboard platform is not large enough the mouse tends to be placed on the desktop that is higher and further away. This will lead to excessive reaching while trying to operate the mouse.
Do Not Anchor the Wrists
• When typing, it is advisable to not anchor (rest) the wrists on the desk or a wrist rest. Resting the wrists while typing may be harmful because it encourages bending and holding static postures. It can also apply pressure to the underside of the wrists.
• A wrist rest is designed to provide support during pauses, when not typing (such as when reading from the screen). If using a wrist rest ensure that it is the same height as the front edge of the keyboard.
• Where possible, the feet at the rear of the keyboard should be kept in a lowered position to minimise the height and angle of the keyboard.