When we discuss ergonomics on the NBF blog, we’re referring to the study of employee efficiency in the workplace. Unsurprisingly, the number one most important factor when it comes to good ergonomics is keeping comfortable while you work. After all, how can you expect to be efficient when your neck and back are in pain, your wrist is sore or your eyes are strained? A good ergonomic chair and a standing desk are obvious fixes for office fatigue, but what about your desk accessories? Sometimes it’s the little things that can make the biggest difference.
Footrests. These accessories are not only helpful, but necessary for office workers, especially those of a shorter stature. When you type, your wrists should be straight, not bent up or down. If you’re a shorter person and need to bend your wrists to type, then you may need to adjust your chair’s seat height up so that you can level them out. Of course, doing this may cause your feet to dangle off the ground, which is where a footrest will come in handy.
Keyboard tray. Speaking of typing, ergonomic keyboards and keyboard trays are the way to go. You’ve probably seen those crazy curvy keyboards somewhere or another, and they serve a purpose. These curved keyboards are designed to mimic the natural curve of your wrists as you type. For additional support, an articulating keyboard tray will allow you to adjust the position of your keyboard so that you can find a position that’s just right for you.
Wrist pads. You may also want to get some wrist pads to go along with that keyboard tray. Gel wrist pads that go underneath your keyboard tray and underneath your computer mouse serve as padding for your wrists so that you can get them into the proper position as comfortably as possible.
Monitor stand. The top of your monitor should sit at about 2” higher than your eye level when you are seated. If your monitor is too low, it’s best to get an adjustable height monitor stand to raise it to the proper position. If an adjustable stand isn’t in the cards, you can simulate a stand by propping your monitor up on a small stack of books.
Backrest. If your company did not provide you with an office chair equipped with adjustable lumbar support, then you will certainly want to get a good backrest right away. There are plenty of backrests available that simply slide over the back of your existing office chair, and they aren’t expensive. Finding an option with a nice curve in the lumbar region will help prevent back pain that stems from hour after hour of sitting in a desk chair.
Need help finding ergonomic furniture that works? Call our furniture experts today at (800) 558-1010 or shop our full assortment of office accessories here.
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