The following considerations should be made when purchasing or procuring office equipment. The OEHS staff can assist employees with purchasing decisions, and assist in the design of the workstation using ergonomic principles. Keep in mind there are alternatives to buying new “ergo”  equipment, and simple modifications to your current space may help you achieve the ideal setup. If you feel new equipment is necessary, “caveat emptor”, let the buyer beware. With increased headlines and media attention many items are now marketed as “ergonomic”, when in fact they are not ergonomic at all!! OEHS can help narrow down your choices should you need assistance.
 
 

Chair                       :

The chair is the focal point of an ergonomic workstation, and all other aspects of design should adjusted around it. Chairs should have an adjustable back to provide support for the lumbar region of the back and trunk. High-back chairs provide extra upper back support. Select a chair with easily adjustable height to permit the feet to rest flat on the ground with the upper legs parallel to the floor. Your feet should rest flat on the floor! A footrest may be needed by some people to achieve this position. Chairs should have a five-star base and casters compatible with the floor surface. T-armrests with adjustable height and width are recommended for intensive computer users. When seated, the seat pan should not hit the back of knee.

Work Surface         :

Work surfaces should be large enough to accommodate all the computer equipment, including a wrist rest in front of the keyboard and adequate viewing distance between the monitor and operator's eyes. A keyboard tray can be used to increase depth and to provide proper keying level. There should also be enough room under the work surface to allow free leg movement. The height of the work surface should allow the forearms to be parallel with the floor when working at the computer, while not forcing the shoulders to be elevated. A footrest can assist in supporting the feet as well, allowing the employee to sit back in his/her chair.

Keyboard                :

The keyboard and input device (mouse or trackball) should be at the same level (or slight negative tilt) and in front of the operator. The height of the keyboard and input device should allow the operator to position their forearms and hands parallel to the floor. Achieve this by adjusting or articulating the keyboard tray. A padded wrist rest for the keyboard and input device should be used to prevent the operator's wrists from coming in contact with the work surface when the arms are at rest. Avoid overreaching by keeping the input device close to the body.

Monitor                   :

Position the monitor directly in front of the operator with the screen at or below eye level. One exception is bifocal wearers who may prefer a slightly lower monitor level. Monitors should have good contrast, sharp focus, and be free from flickering and glare to minimize eye strain.

Document Holder   :

Position the document holder at eye level, close to the monitor.

Phone Head Set      :

Head sets reduce awkward neck and shoulder postures, notably by eliminating the habit of cradling the phone between the shoulder and chin. Head sets are particularly beneficial for people who work on the phone and computer simultaneously.

Lighting                   :

Excessive overhead lighting can cause glare and eye discomfort. Dimming overhead lights and use of a task lamp can reduce eye fatigue. Monitor shades and glare screens also reduce glare. Adjust monitor contrast and brightness for maximum personal comfort.

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