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.

Ergonomics Explained

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.

Choosing An Office Chair

This is the piece of office furniture that you do not want to scrimp on. The office chair should be comfortable and fit your proportions. The chair’s seat must allow your knees to naturally bend, so it cannot be too long. Back support should be good, including good lumbar support. Adjustable seat height is important, as well. Any arm rests should be adjustable, if possible. The base of the chair, if it is on wheels, should be a 5-star pedestal.

Setting Up Your Computer Area

The desk should have two different heights: the main desk and a sliding shelf that is used for holding the keyboard and typing. Your computer monitor should be placed on the desk directly in front of you at eye level. This will reduce eye strain. A U-shaped desk set up keeps everything you use on a regular basis right at your fingertips, without overreaching and straining your neck and back.

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.

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

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.

A Must Have

To prevent injuries and boost worker productivity, it is very important to provide yourself and anyone who works for you with the proper ergonomic office furniture. Spending money now will save you money later when you inevitably develop an injury.

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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