Our bodies were not designed to sit in front of computer screens typing for 8-10 hours a day or more, but we do it for work or school or pleasure. Office furniture that does not support your body properly, that is not ergonomic, coupled with long hours sitting, is a recipe for disaster. Repetitive stress injuries, numbness, tingling in the arms, wrists and hands, backaches and more are all caused by poorly fitting furniture.

Ergonomics Defined

According to The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, fourth edition, ergonomics is “design factors, as for the workplace, intended to maximize productivity by reducing operator fatigue and discomfort.” So, in order for workers to be most productive, the work area must be designed to minimize fatigue and pain.

The 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 Arrangement

Setting your work space up in such a way as to keep all of your most used items at your finger tips is essential. A U-shape or right angle shape are both popular configurations. Your computer monitor should be at eye level, while the keyboard should be at the same height as your hands when your arm is bent at the elbow, hands parallel to the floor. Most desks have a slide-out tray to accommodate the keyboard.

Avoid overreaching by keeping the mouse within reach. Use the mouse on the side that you are most comfortable with. Make sure your hand is level and relaxed when operating the mouse.

Your keyboard should be sloped, with the top row of keys higher than the bottom row of keys. Use the legs on the back of the keyboard to raise it. Make sure that your keyboard is at the correct height. Sit in your chair with your upper arms close to your body and lower arms extended into a right angle, parallel to the floor. Your keyboard should be at the level of your hands.

Take A Break

In addition to having an ergonomic office space, it is very important to take periodic breaks to give your body a chance to get up and move around. Stretch your arms and legs, exercise your hands by squeezing a ball, move your eyes up, down, and side to side. All of these exercises should be done every 30-60 minutes.

Prevent Injury

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.

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