Making Your Office Ergonomically Friendly

Ergonomics - a way of life

"Ergonomics" has become more than an office buzzword; in fact, for many employers, it's become a way of life. Such tenants of ergonomics as making sure employees have the correct type of office equipment and furniture, ensuring they they're seated in the correct position and are at the correct distance from their computer screens are common practices today. Poorly fitting office set-up can lead to a host of injuries: back pain, eye strain, headache and carpal tunnel syndrome, just to name a few.

If you aren't familiar with "ergonomics," it's a simple concept. An ergonomic office environment is one that gives the user special features, options and comfort, with equipment that can be adjusted to the size and shape of each person's individual body. A wide range of fully adjustable computer and office desks and armoires available today make a huge step toward creating an ergonomic office space without breaking the bank. Most ergonomic computer desks or armoires always have a few features: an adjustable keyboard tray; enough desktop space to write comfortably; a monitor shelf. Most armoire desks have room for a printer, monitor and speakers, not to mention the usual mouse and keyboard. Cubicle desks, used in a larger workspace, are often modular and can accommodate many different computer components depending on the user's needs.

Many computer desks also have adjustable height to make sure you are comfortable and do not sustain any injury at work. If, like many professionals today, you sit at your computer for more than five hours per day, ergonomics should be considered. Correct posture, hand placement and keyboard level, the distance from the computer screen distance to your face, and a chair that supports your back and hips are all pieces of the ergonomic puzzle.

Large office ergonomics

What makes a large office environment safer? Consider these tips.

• Make sure computer stations are correctly assembled and properly installed.
• Make sure computer monitors and keyboards are user-friendly and properly positioned.
• Buy adjustable chairs and make sure your employees know how to use them.
• Do not neglect comfort elements like foam wrist rests or cushions and footrests.
• Encourage employees to take periodic breaks.
• Finally, if an employee complains of any discomfort, react immediately to prevent injury.