Ergonomic tips for a comfortable workstation

How to make your workstation ergonomic.

Do you spend a lot of time at your computer desk? Unfortunately, not all of them are individually and ergonomically configured. Fortunately, many companies are seeing the benefits of providing employees with an ergonomic workstation where it's comfortable to work and perform well!

But what exactly is an ergonomic workstation? Is it just about the equipment? Does the choice of materials have an impact? We explain everything in this article.

The importance of a good desk surface

Forget about standard height and the fact that an electric table is only for sitting or standing. The great thing about having an electric table is that you can adjust your work surface to the ideal height that suits you, whether you're standing, but the same goes for sitting! Your forearms should be positioned at a 45-degree angle and parallel to your computer keyboard.

The other major advantage of owning an electric table is the ability to alternate your positions throughout the day. When you feel a drop in energy or tension, change positions. This helps manage body fatigue. Your brain activity is also stimulated.

It's worth keeping in mind that a suitable workspace must have minimum dimensions. We suggest 60 inches wide by 30 inches deep. Additionally, your work surface should be anti-glare to be as comfortable as possible for your eyes. Also, if you have an electric table, the motor should be as quiet as possible.

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Do you work with a computer? If so, your screen layout is crucial.

The minimum distance to place your screen is 20 inches. However, keep in mind that this dimension can vary depending on the size and style of the font you work with most often, as well as the number of pixels on your screen.

We recommend never squinting your eyes to avoid putting pressure on them. It's also important to keep your screen at eye level, as your neck should remain in the most neutral position possible.

If you're working with more than one monitor, it's important to position them as close together as possible. What's the benefit of working with two or more monitors? It limits the number of clicks you make. Fewer clicks means fewer repetitions of a potentially painful movement and less chance of errors.

If you're working with a laptop, we recommend connecting it to an external monitor to optimize your work. This monitor should be at least 19 inches. This recommendation is recommended if you're using this computer for more than four hours a day.

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Using a mouse or rollermouse will make your task easier!

For most of us, the mouse is the most used accessory on our desk. When using it, try as much as possible to avoid repeated movements, which are unnatural and leave your body in a static position. We also recommend bringing your mouse as close to your body as possible to avoid wrist and forearm pain. Think about all the mouse clicking and scrolling you do in a day! These repetitions can cause a lot of ailments if you handle your mouse incorrectly. Remember to take short breaks when working with your mouse for long periods of time. Allow at least 10 seconds to relieve pressure.

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Did you notice the word "rollermouse" in the title of this paragraph? This accessory replaces the conventional mouse. This centrally positioned mouse sits in front of the user, between you and your keyboard. This type of device relieves the tension you may feel in your shoulder muscles because outward rotation of the shoulder is no longer required to direct the movement. Both hands can work simultaneously.

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Your computer keyboard

This is an important work accessory, and not all keyboards are created equal. A comfortable, easy, fast, and quiet typing makes a difference! Keyboard feedback is an important factor. Key readability is also crucial. Imagine you're an air traffic controller working nights. You need to be able to see the keyboard keys. The size of your keyboard is also essential.

If you never use the numeric keypad, why add space between your keyboard and mouse? In this case, choose a keyboard without a numeric keypad. Reducing the distance between your keyboard and mouse will allow you to maintain a more comfortable posture. Do you write a lot in the language of Molière? Opt for a French-Canadian keyboard.

In order to let your hands relax and rest, as with using a mouse, it is good to take short breaks when working at the keyboard for long periods of time.

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Choosing a good ergonomic chair

In recent years, due to the popularity of electric tables, some people prefer to use a stool, or an active movement board.

However, if you prefer to work in a seated position, comfortably installed in an ergonomic chair, it's a good idea to adjust it properly. Even the best chair in the world, if poorly adjusted, won't provide the desired comfort. To do this, we recommend consulting this CNESST document .

A good ergonomic chair should also fit your height and build. We recommend ergonomic chairs that can be adjusted as much as possible, in various angles and positions. Arm support is also beneficial when working at a computer. Armrests should be height-adjustable and ideally laterally adjustable. Good arm support tends to reduce neck strain and fatigue.

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Next, if your work is very clerical, using a document holder can make your office life easier. We strongly recommend positioning it between your keyboard and screen, at a slightly inclined angle. The viewing distance and positioning of your papers contribute to greater comfort and reduce neck strain and eye fatigue. What's more, the document holder also allows for a tidier work surface.

A footrest is essential if you can't adjust the height of your work surface. A non-slip surface is preferable. Choose models that allow you to adjust the tilt angle as desired. Quick and easy adjustment is essential, especially for women who change shoe styles from day to day.

In short, a workstation that's well-adjusted to your reality limits and prevents discomfort and the risk of injury. An ergonomic work surface can also have a positive impact on your mental health, which is not insignificant. Don't forget the importance of taking visual and physical breaks. This will improve your mood, your health, and your concentration level.

For any questions specific to your ergonomics, we recommend that you contact a specialist. If you would like to schedule a meeting with us in our magnificent showroom, click here .