Workplace Ergonomics: Chairs, Desks, and Placement

• Examples of Ergonomics in The Workplace

Chairs with Adjustable Height

• Adjustable chairs allow employees to adjust the height, backrest angle, and armrest positions.
• Optimize comfort and posture by preventing strain and discomfort from static postures.
• Desk, seat, and equipment assessments encourage proper sitting posture and facilitate proper equipment setup.

Desks with Adjustable Height

• A desk with adjustable height allows changing the height of the desk surface.
• Adjust the desk to a preferred height for sitting or standing positions.
• Adjustable height desks offer a more ergonomic and customizable work environment.

Keyboard and Mouse Placement

• Correctly positioning the keyboard and mouse is essential for preventing strain and discomfort.
• This is especially important during long work sessions
• Keyboards should be positioned at or slightly below elbow level.
• Position keyboards parallel to the floor so forearms are parallel.
• A mouse should be at the same level as the keyboard.

Proper Lighting

• Adequate lighting minimizes eye strain and headaches.
• Natural light is ideal and can be supplemented by task lighting.
• Ensure the lighting avoids glare and shadows.
• Adjustable lighting, desk lamps, and floor lamps reduce glare and prevent eye strain.
• Prevent discomfort by not positioning the screen in front of a bright light source.

Footrest

• A footrest is a supportive device placed under a desk.
• A footrest helps keep feet flat on the floor when the chair is too high or to provide extra comfort.
• Footrests help maintain proper posture by ensuring legs are at the correct angle.
• Reducing the strain on the lower back and legs

Proper Monitor Placement

• The top of the monitor should be at or slightly below eye level to prevent tilting the head up or down.
• Correct placement reduces neck strain and is achieved by adjusting chair height or using a monitor stand if necessary.
• The distance between your eyes and the monitor screen should be approximately an arm's length away.
• Proper Placement minimizes eye strain and reduces the risk of nearsightedness

Headset for Hands-Free Communication

• A hands-free communication headset allows talking on the phone or participating in online meetings without the use of hands.
• These typically consist of a microphone and speaker, and connect via wire or Bluetooth to a device.

Regular Breaks

• Regular breaks are a fundamental principle of ergonomics.
• Regular breaks prevent discomfort, fatigue, and potential injuries associated with prolonged static postures and repetitive tasks.
• Ergonomics balances work and rest.
• Regular breaks are a crucial part of that balance.

Explore how ergonomic chairs and desks can adjust to the needs of workplace employees. Proper keyboard and mouse placements are important to prevent strain, especially during long work sessions. Adjustable height desks will offer a more ergonomic and customizable work environment.