How To Apply Ergonomics To Your Office Environment

Sitting for long hours increases the risk of neck strain, hand, wrist and shoulder tendinitis, low back pain as well as bursitis. While you can’t reduce the time you spend sitting in front of the computer, you certainly can do something about your posture. Easier said than done, right?! It certainly seems so, however, you can give your work space a makeover and apply the power of ergonomics to your office. Here’s a simple ergonomics office guide that can definitely help you feel comfortable and more productive.

Start with the chair

Ensuring ergonomics in the office starts with choosing the right chair. The main features that make an office chair ergonomic are: lumbar support, a five caster base, a good padding, adjustable and removable arms, waterfall front edge, a height adjustable back and seat as well as easy to reach controls. In other words, you need a chair with adjustable features, so that you can adjust the chair to your specific needs.

Desk Dimensions

In general, when it comes to ergonomics office desks that are most comfortable come in the following dimensions: height – 86cm, width – 76cm, depth – 48cm. Another important thing to keep in mind is that the area under the desk must be clear, so that you have enough space for your legs, knees and tights.

Keep everything within reach

Keep within your reach the objects you use while working such as the keyboard, the mouse, the telephone, staplers, papers, etc. Make sure that reaching these objects doesn’t require a lot of stretching. Place them within your arm’s reach so that you are able to get them comfortably while sitting.

Position the monitor properly

Setting the monitor in a proper position is important not only for your vision but for your neck and shoulders as well. The monitor should be centered to your look when sitting. Simply said, you should look at the monitor without rising and lowering, nor turning your head to the left or to the right. Also the distance between you and your monitor should be the length of your extended arm. By placing the monitor in the right position you will reduce the risk of neck and shoulder pain and injuries.

Use ergonomic accessories

Wrist rest, foot rest and document holders are some of the ergonomics office accessories that can make you feel more comfortable while working. These accessories are specially designed to provide support for certain parts of the body and keep them in a more natural position.