Selecting your office furniture

Though office furniture should be selected carefully to meet the needs of individual staff, as far as possible its range of adjustment should make it adaptable to multi- purpose use. The overriding goal is the elimination of (a) static or awkward posture and (b) poor access and excessive reach.

The nature of the work will determine what your staff require in order to function “ergonomically". With this in mind, consider the following:

1) What is the nature of the work to be done?

• is it mostly computer work and data input?
  
• is it a mix of computer input and other tasks e.g. telephone work, meetings, note taking, filing?
  
• is there regular use of a mouse?

2) Main selection criteria

• furniture with a range of adjustment that can fit all prospective users.
  
• a fully adjustable chair with height-adjustable armrests.
  
• a height adjustable desk is preferable
  
• a footrest is recommended if you decide on a non-adjustable desk
  
• accessories, such as copyholders, wrist rests, task lamps, etc.

3) Consult your staff

Before you make a final decision, give your staff an opportunity to test new products. As staff will often resist change, having them actively involved in the decision-making process can help to smooth the way. Interactive training on how to use, adjust, and readjust new equipment and furniture is also very important for its successful introduction into the workplace.

N.B. Bear in mind that a manufacturer’s claim that his products are "ergonomic" is no guarantee of comfort.

selecting office chairs