Ergonomic Office Furniture

By Matt Jackson

What is ergonomic furniture and what can it do for me?

If you were to compare a modern office with an office from 100 years ago the differences would be massive. Computers are not only an integral part of the modern office but they are now the most important and most used aspect in any office environment. 100 years ago, desks were used for writing and this remained the case until the mid seventies when typewriters were first introduced.

Obviously, the action of writing is very different to the action of using a PC or typewriter and it was inevitable that office furniture would change to reflect this.

Advances in technology have brought about changes in almost every aspect of our lives, and they continue to do so at home, in the office, everywhere in fact. Because improvements in technology mean improved efficiency, the design of offices has changed to include the many new technologies evident in today’s society.

As with most technological advances, computers were resisted at first with many potential users believing them to be harmful. Whilst the initial radiation concerns (similar to recent concerns with mobile phones) were completely disproved, there is blatant evidence that continued use of a PC can lead to repetitive stress injuries. It makes sense that the human body isn’t built to perform these tasks on a regular basis.

In the 1980s, with the advancement of PC use in the office came the introduction of ergonomics. At first, however, it was only a fad and it is only fairly recently that ergonomics have become written in stone because of strict health and safety laws. The actual equipment does not cause these injuries, though; the movements associated with typing, twisting and turning whilst using this equipment in fact cause them.

Nearly everyone who works in an office now uses a PC and this has put greater pressure on employers to employ new methods to combat the back, arm, head, neck arm and even leg stresses which are associated with this work. Eyestrain is also another major problem for workers who sit in front of a VDU all day, the glare from the screen causing an eventual impairment in sight.

It is not only possible to buy ergonomically designed furniture, such as chairs and desks that are designed solely for computer users and are fully adjustable but one can also get other ‘accessories’.

Wrist rests are used to support the wrist when typing. Gel wrist rests support and are also comfortable and can be purchased for both typing and using the mouse. Screen guards are used to protect the users eyes from the glare of the screen and reflection caused by office lighting. Foot rests stop feet from dangling offering extra support for the legs and ankles and also improve posture when typing which will supposedly stop back ache, leg ache and foot ache.

Chairs come with arm supports to support the arms and wrists, although these aren’t always helpful for constant typists. They come with tall backs to support the neck. Desks are designed with matt finishes to prevent glare from lights above.

With every advance in technology there are numerous advances in the office furniture and accessories that we use in conjunction.

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