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• The Self-employed Worker
• Self-appraisal
• The Action Plan
• Seven Pieces of Advice from Self-employed People
• Self-employment and Taxation
• Tools for the Self-employed
• Marketing
• The Ergonomic Workstation
• Insurance Coverage
• Eight Steps to Successful Transition

Health is undoubtedly the most important resource for the self-employed. Here are some recommendations for those who use a computer and want to protect their health.

The screen

• Should be at eye level
• Equipped with an anti-reflective accessory

The keyboard

• If the model is traditional, it is wise to use a wrist support to avoid developing metacarpal syndrome, which provokes loss of feeling at the fingertips.
• Arms should be parallel to the floor while typing.

The mouse

• The mouse should always be placed at the same level as the keyboard. If the keyboard is placed in a drawer, a tray can be added for the mouse
• Encourage shoulder and arm movement rather than wrist or else use a wrist support.
• Ideally, you should learn to use both hands to alternate movement.

The chair

• The backrest should follow the curve of your back and offer lower back support.
• The seat should be slightly inclined, long enough to rest your thighs but without touching the back of the knees.
  • Too short: forces you to sit at the end of your chair.
  • Too long: interferes with blood flow.
• Feet should be flat on the ground.
• If you have raised the seat to type, use a foot support or an old telephone book!
• Stand up at least five to ten minutes every hour.

Canadian Center for Occupational Health and Safety