Achieve Better Ergonomics for Your Home Workspace

Published on May 04, 2020
Achieve Better Ergonomics for Your Home Workspace

The COVID-19 pandemic is creating a shift in the way people work at a global scale, making remote and flexible working the new normal.

Businesses and their employees are now facing new and unique challenges as a result of the evolving working landscape. Many have had to learn to adapt to working from home and operate as part of a remote workforce.

Due to the unprecedented nature of this global pandemic, these new ways of working are anticipated to continue for lengthier periods of time. Opting for the right ergonomic furniture and accessories will not only allow you to work in comfort at home, it can also prevent strain on your body and boost your productivity.

Tips on creating an ergonomic home office from our strategic partner, WINC:

1. An affinity for comfort

Sedentary work encourages our bodies to sit still for hours on end, putting us at risk for a wide variety of chronic and even life-threatening conditions. It’s important to invest in the right furniture to support you as you work, such as a height-adjustable sit-stand desk and an ergonomic chair with adequate spinal support.

When selecting the right chair, look for features like a comfortable backrest, adjustable height and lumbar support, ample seat depth and comfortable padding. Ultimately, a chair should be easily adjusted to accommodate a worker’s individual needs.

2. The set-up

It is recommended to place your laptop or monitor at eye level and allowing for an arm’s length distance between you and the screen.

If you are using a laptop or iPad, an external keyboard, mouse and monitor raiser may be required to achieve the level of ergonomics you get from a PC while still offering the convenience and portability of a mobile device. 

Your mouse and keyboard should be positioned to where they are easily reachable when your elbows are bent at a 90-degree angle. Your workstation should also provide ample leg room and be well lit.

3. Posture and movement

It is important to move regularly, change posture and work dynamically, taking frequent breaks and maintaining good posture. As the day progresses and fatigue occurs, people are more likely to slouch, slump and fall into bad habits. A quick yoga session, a short walk or some simple stretches are great ways to combat repetitive strain, prevent injury, and leave you feeling more energised and refreshed.

Take note of your posture throughout the day by making sure your ears, shoulders and hips are aligned.

Download WINC’s guide for creating an ergonomic home workstation here.

Procurement Australasia has solutions for your furniture, technology and office supply needs to smoothly transition your organisation into a remote working environment. 

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