October is Global Ergonomics Month
The importance of office ergonomics and how to create a workspace that fits your needs.
Many of us spend hours a day working at desks, focusing on screens, typing on keyboards, and sitting in chairs that may not offer the best support. Over time, these routine habits can take a toll on our bodies, leading to discomfort, pain, and even injury.
What is Office Ergonomics?
Office ergonomics is all about optimizing your workspace to fit your body’s unique needs. It involves selecting the right office furniture and accessories tailored to your particular body type and work tasks. When chosen correctly, these components will offer you healthier posture, less physical strain, and promote more movement throughout the day.
Why Office Ergonomics Matters
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Reduce Pain and Discomfort
Poor ergonomic set-ups can lead to physical discomfort such as back pain, neck stiffness, shoulder pain, wrist strain, eye fatigue, and more.
Using ergonomic office furniture and equipment in the workplace is proven to help reduce these negative health impacts.Â
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Boost Productivity
An uncomfortable workstation can cause unnecessary strain, leading to fatigue and low energy levels during the day.
Adjustable chairs, desks, and monitor arms allow individuals to customize their workspace to their personal needs, reducing the physical strain of sitting for long periods.
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Prevent Long Term Problems
Prolonged stationary work in a non-ergonomic environment can contribute to chronic health problems, including musculoskeletal disorders and repetitive strain injuries.
An ergonomic workspace set-up will reduce the likelihood of developing these conditions and promote optimal physical health.
How to Create an Ergonomic Workspace
Office ergonomics isn’t just about comfort, it is about creating a custom workspace that supports health, enhances productivity, and prevents long-term injuries. Whether you’re working from home or in an office, investing in your workspace is a smart decision that will benefit your health and wellness in the long-term.Â
Key Elements of an Ergonomic Workspace:
Ergonomic Chair
Your chair should be fully adjustable to tailor-fit to your body. Simply adjusting the back support, arms, or tilt mechanism can change the fit of the chair drastically.
Sit-Stand Desk
A sit-stand (or height adjustable) desk promotes movement in your work environment, allowing you to change positions from sitting to standing throughout your workday.
Monitor Arm
An adjustable monitor arm allows you to properly position your computer screen at eye level, and at the correct distance from your eyes. This eliminates the need to hunch forward, or strain your neck or eyes to see the screen.
Ergonomic Keyboard & Mouse
An ergonomic keyboard and/or mouse can reduce strain on your wrists and hands by keeping wrists in a more neutral position while working. This healthier working position reduces the chance of repetitive strain injuries, or repetitive motion disorders - such as carpal tunnel, from occurring.
Foot Rests
If you find your legs can’t plant firmly on the floor while at your desk, the use of a footrest could be a solution for you. Having your feet firmly planted while working (versus dangling legs) will reduce pressure on the back of legs and lower back, improving overall circulation.
Anti-Fatigue Mat
An anti-fatigue mat is an excellent option when working for standing periods. These mats can alleviate pressure and discomfort in your feet and legs caused by prolonged standing.
We understand there is a lot to remember when it comes to ergonomic products, and that it can often be overwhelming to know what is right for you. Every body is different, and there are a lot of products available for different applications and body types.
Chairlines is your Trusted Ergonomic Product Expert
If you're looking to dive into the world of ergonomics and optimize your workplace health, or if you are struggling to understand what is best for your ergonomic workplace set-up - Chairlines is here for you. With our headquarters located in downtown Vancouver - and over 35 years in business - we have grown to be one of Vancouver's top local ergonomic product specialists.
Being one of the first ergonomic furniture stores in the region, our reputation is spoken of highly within BC’s Occupational Health and Ergonomist community. From health professionals, to corporate clients, to local individuals, our wide range of loyal customers trust Chairlines to provide quality products, expert advice, and competitive prices every time!