Why Ergonomic Office Furniture Is Important To Your Health
The human body is designed to move, to be up and about, not chained to a desk, staring at a computer screen all day long. But, the fact is, for most people, sitting at a desk is what they do all day. Spending eight to 10 hours sitting in an uncomfortable chair can be sheer torture and can set your body up for a work-related injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Ergonomic office furniture is not only more comfortable, it can help to prevent injuries and make work life more pleasant.
What Is Ergonomics?
The dictionary says that ergonomics consists of designing furniture, usually found in an office setting, so that it fits the human body better, reduces worker fatigue and helps to prevent painful injuries and other discomfort. Using this type of furniture will boost a worker’s production because energy is not being diverted into his or her aching back and tired fingers.
Your Office Chair
An ergonomic office chair is one of the most important pieces of furniture in the work station set-up. When selecting an ergonomic chair, the seat must be comfortable and fit your shape and size. It should not be too long, preventing you from bending your knees fully. The seat height should be adjustable to a height that allows you to keep your feet on the floor. The lower back support should be comfortable, the back rest should provide good support and if you need a chair with wheels, it should have a five-pedestal base. Arm rests should be cushioned, contoured, comfortable and preferably adjustable.
The Desk And Computer Set Up
An ergonomic desk has different levels for the keyboard, the main writing surface and for the computer monitor. The monitor should be front and center, at eye level. A desk set up should have all of the items you use on a regular basis within easy reach to avoid straining your neck and back.
Your mouse should move freely and be placed on the side which feels the most comfortable for you. Work the mouse with your hand level, not tightly grasping the mouse, keeping your hand relaxed.
The keyboard itself should be tilted with the top higher than the bottom. Use the legs on the back of the keyboard to raise the top. Once again, your keyboard should be at the level of your hands when they are parallel to the floor when your arm is bent at the elbow in a right angle. Be sure that you do not have to stretch out your arms to type. Also avoid typing with your hands raised too high. Do not use a wrist rest because it puts your hands in an unnatural position, stretching the nerves in your wrists.
Take A Break
Every 30-60 minutes you should take a break from your task. Get up and stretch. Squeeze a ball, look around the room to move your eyes in different directions. Roll your neck. There are applications that you can use to remind you when it is time to take a break.
A Necessity
Ergonomic office furniture is essential for anyone that spends a great deal of time sitting at a desk or using a computer. Worker productivity will improve, injuries may be prevented and people will be able to work without pain.
When you are furnishing your office, a desk is an important piece of furniture. Take advantage of the many styles and designs to make your job of hunting for a desk Brisbane area simple.
July 4, 2010 | Posted by Terence Adler
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