How to Choose an Ergonomic Workstation
The most important component of an ergonomic workstation is the desk. An ergonomic desk surface will be large enough to place all frequently used objects in reach and deep enough so that you can set up a monitor with a keyboard directly in front of it. Ideally, the desk will have adjustable height for different applications but if that is not possible, the desktop should be elbow height. The leading edge of the desk should be rounded rather than a sharp angle for optimal comfort. The other signs of an ergonomic workstation are sufficient clearance underneath the desk so that the thighs do not touch the underside, and sufficient room for the legs to move around and stretch out.
No matter how ergonomic the workstation is, its effect will be diminished without the use of the proper chair. Bad office chairs are one of the biggest causes of back pain worldwide. While many chairs are marketed as ergonomic, truly ergonomic chairs are frequently designed by physiologists and have a few common features.
A real ergonomic chair will have back support for the lumbar area, a padded seat with rounded edges, and supportive armrests. The more adjustable the chair is the better. Being able to adjust seat height, angle of the backrest and armrests make a real difference in comfort because every single body is different.
The best way to know if your workstation and chair are truly ergonomic is to check posture. If you've properly followed the advice on how to choose an ergonomic workstation, you will be sitting up straight rather than leaning forward. Neither the head, neck or torso will be twisted. Shoulders will be upright and in line with the torso rather than leaning forward or elevated. Forearms will be parallel with the desktop and feet will be flat on the floor. Changing a few elements to make your workstation ergonomic will make an immediate impact on comfort and have even more positive results over the longterm.
Published by Nancy Lichtenstein
Nancy Lichtenstein is a freelance writer and journalist, a mom, a fashionista, and frequently can be found backstage at rock concerts in her spare time. She has written for Woman's Day, CNN, USA Today, the... View profile
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- The more adjustable office furniture is the more ergonomic it is.
- An ergonomic office chair must provide lower back support.
- A properly set up workstation will have room to place a keyboard directly in front of the monitor.