People who have to sit a lot often have health problems. However, working in the office can be simplified. This has the advantage that many areas of the body are spared. Therefore, ergonomic work equipment should be available at every workplace.
What does ergonomics mean?
If you have an ergonomically designed workplace, you will feel better and achieve better results. The science of human work is called ergonomics. This term is composed of the Greek words “ergon” (meaning work) and “nomos” (meaning law, rule). Working conditions are adapted to people and not vice versa. In doing so, the physical and mental health of the worker is promoted. Thus, in order to create good ergonomics, only the basic rules must be observed. The environment, work content and organisation are also very important. People should notice as few negative effects as possible when working while seated. It is essential to take preventive measures for occupational safety and health.
Ergonomics at the workplace is important
The workplace can be in different places. This includes the office provided by the employer, but also the home office. An ergonomic workplace is best adapted to the worker. This allows the worker to perform at his or her best and remains mentally and physically healthy. The working atmosphere improves and the number of cases of illness is reduced. Tasks can be performed more efficiently through an ergonomic arrangement of aids and work equipment. Since there is too little movement in an office job, this topic is often underestimated.
The basic rules of ergonomics
To ensure that the job has fewer health consequences, there are some basic rules. The noise level should be kept fairly low. At the same time, sufficient lighting or daylight is important. The workplace should be at least 10 square metres per workstation. The optimal temperature is between 20 and 22 degrees Celsius and the perfect humidity between 40 and 60 percent. Plants in the office provide a better working atmosphere.
Furniture should also be ergonomic. A desk should be adjustable in height. A standing desk is also suitable. An office chair must also be adjustable to the user. Adjusting it to one’s own height ensures that no tension or damage to health occurs even when sitting for long periods of time. The screen should be at least 22 inches. If all ergonomic requirements are met, the screen, chair and table are optimally coordinated. Now an upright sitting posture is possible and the worker is looking straight at the screen.
Ergonomic sitting
Comfortable office chairs enable the worker to sit upright. This strengthens the back muscles. It also prevents back pain and improves breathing. To enable ergonomic sitting, a chair must be adjustable in height. When sitting correctly, the legs should be bent slightly more than 90 degrees. The feet should be firmly on the floor. The seat must be deep enough to reach the back of the knees when sitting. There should be a free area between the backrest and the seat to encourage sitting upright. Locking armrests allow the use of an extended armrest to the desk.
A number of things should also be considered when choosing a desk. The work surface must be large enough. After all, a lot of space is needed here to place the mouse and keyboard, as well as the monitor and laptop. Other work equipment is also needed in the immediate vicinity. In addition, there must be space to rest your arms. The height of the desk should allow enough room for the legs.
