Working in an office may not seem like a very physically taxing job, but it can be if you don’t have good ergonomics. Ergonomics refers to how a worker interacts with the work environment. When the office ergonomics aren’t the best, the worker can certainly suffer pain, fatigue, irritability, and inadequate productivity. Proper office ergonomics helps ease these issues, and most of it comes down to choosing the right ergonomic office furniture. Read on!
Desk
The type of desk that you work at can make a big difference in how your body feels. To start, make sure that you have a suitable desk for a computer if you’re using one, such as an L-shaped or U-shaped one. Next, make sure that there is the clearance under the desk to accommodate your knees, thighs, and feet. If you’re scrunched up under your desk, you will not be comfortable.
Chair
An uncomfortable chair makes even manageable tasks take longer. No one likes sitting in an unsupportive chair. Choose one that supports your spinal curves and accommodates different heights so you can get the perfect size for you. The goal should be for you to rest your feet flat on the floor. If you can’t, consider getting a stool or footrest so that your feet don’t dangle. Armrests are another standard feature of a good chair, and they should be adjustable so that your shoulders are relaxed when your arms rest on them.
Monitor
The ideal placement for your computer monitor is directly in front of you. Try about an arms-length away, with the top of the monitor at about eye level. We highly recommend that you don’t angle the monitor so that you have to turn your neck or body to look at it.
Keyboard and Mouse
Your keyboard should be directly between you and your monitor so that your body does not have to twist. The mouse should be on the same surface as the keyboard, and you should use a wrist-rest so that your wrists don’t flex while you’re typing. Whenever possible, learn keyboard shortcuts so that you can use the mouse less.
Desktop Objects
Finally, anything else that you use routinely should be within easy reach. Don’t put it in a low drawer or a high shelf if you’re going to need it multiple times a day. Finally, if you spend a decent amount of time on the phone, consider using a headset to minimize neck strain.
Furnish, Design, and Protect Your Office Space with Mark Downs
Mark Downs is happy to help you get the most productive, creative, and positive office environment possible through our office furniture and design expertise. We have the knowledge and equipment to ensure your office is attractive, productive, and an excellent hub of activity in your commercial facility. Stop by our Cockeysville showroom to see what we can offer or give us a call at 410-771-6800. To see examples of our work and what we are up to, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.