Top tips for an ergonomic desk set up

Why is ergonomic support so important at work?

An ergonomic desk set up will help improve your overall posture, avoid strain and injury and help you become a happier, healthier and productive worker.

Assess your comfort levels

Start by doing a Display Screen (DSE) Assessment. You can easily do this yourself. It’s just as important to carry out a DSE assessment for home workers too. Ensure you have all the equipment you need to do your job in comfort, such as the right office chair, foot rests a laptop riser or back support.

Discover the right Desk

An appropriate office desk can make all the difference to your comfort at work. Ensure you can move in and out from your desk easily, and that there is enough space for your knees and feet to stretch out in front of you. A cantilever desk is the ideal height for office work. For home working, a stylish workstation will ensure you work at the correct height, whilst fitting seamlessly into your home environment.

Choose the perfect chair

An office chair that is perfectly suited to your body is vital for maintaining good posture at work. The choice of chair is just about as individual as you are. Choose one with good spinal support and customise with arm rests, or even a head rest if you need it. The height of your chair is just as important as the chair itself. Ensure that you can rest your feet flat on the floor or use a footrest for additional comfort. For ease of movement, check whether the chairs arm rests fit underneath the desk. You may find you need accessories to help your chair become more comfortable. Use adjustable arm rests, back rests, additional castors and chair mats for a more supportive chair.

Protect your back by using your feet!

Using a footrest will help reduce strain on your back. Footrests help align your posture whilst seated and reduce pressure on your feet and legs. They are particularly useful for those who are under 5’2’’ and cannot rest their feet on the floor. Footrests also allow for better circulation, so can help prevent varicose veins or blood clots caused by sitting for too long.

Don’t forget your mouse and keyboard

Using an ergonomic keyboard can help avoid the wrist and arm strains associated with using a flat laptop keyboard. When using your mouse, consider your wrist position. If your elbows are in line with the height of the desk avoid a mouse mat rest as it may hinder your ability to move properly. An ergonomic mouse may also help avoid arm strain as the alternative shape allows your arm to turn to a handshake position rather than lying unnaturally flat. Ensuring your wrists are supported throughout the day with a keyboard wrist support to help reduce repetitive strain caused by typing.

Move your body

Allowing your body to move more at work is vital for your overall wellbeing. One way to work and move simultaneously is to use a sit stand desk for some tasks. Stand to make phone calls or respond to emails and match the task to your posture. The health benefits of using a sit stand desk are multiple, for both mind and body. Standing allows your body a break from a seated position to stretch out your muscles and change your posture. It also helps to give your brain a short break from monotony and straighten out your posture which help circulation and blood flow to vital organs.

Take a break

Our bodies are designed to move. Sitting (or standing) in one position for a long period of time can have detrimental effects on your health. Try and remember to move about every 30 – 45 minutes to keep your brain and body refreshed. It doesn't have to be much, studies have shown that just three minutes exercise every half hour can help prevent diseases associated with sedentary behaviour. 

Rest your eyes

It’s a fact that we blink less when we stare at a screen. Taking periodic screen breaks will prevent your eyes becoming dry and tired, helping you to feel less tired and become more productive.

Stretch your joints and muscles

Hunching over a desk for hours at a time has a negative effect on your muscles and joints. If you can’t break away from the desk, try rolling your shoulders, stretching your arms in the air, moving your head from side to side or stretching out your legs for some light relief.

Put the kettle on

Break time is vital for your overall wellbeing at work. Not just limited to lunchtime, taking short breaks throughout the day is beneficial too. Chatting to colleagues over a cuppa or going outside for some fresh air gives your brain a break from work tasks. You may find you are more productive if you go back to a task after a change of scenery. Find a range of catering essentials for your breaktime here.

Sundry Supplies are here to help

If you require help with your ergonomic set up, our furniture specialists are ready to advise you on exactly what you need for your workspace. Contact us for advice tailored to your exact requirements.