The ideal workplace, what does it look like? It just depends on what your work is and what tools you have available. An ergonomic workplace promotes the comfort and productivity of VDU workers. With some minor adjustments it is easy to create the ideal workplace. Check out our 16 tips below!
With some minor adjustments you can easily create the ideal workplace!
Good seating position
Chair height: feet flat on the floor, knee angles 90-110° Use a footrest if you cannot adjust the height of your desk yourself.
Table height: at elbow height so that you sit relaxed.
Armrest height: just below the table top so you can slide close enough to the desk to work comfortably.
Backrest: Tilt the back of your chair slightly backwards for good support. The backrest should be adjusted between 90° and 120°.
Screen height: Place the top of your screen(s) slightly below eye level.
Distance to screen: at least one arm's length Use an external monitor of at least 19 inches, an external keyboard and mouse.
Healthy laptop use
Avoid prolonged laptop use (>2 hours per day) without measures to improve comfort.
Use a laptop stand or extra screen with an external keyboard to reduce your neck strain and increase your comfort.
Place documents, your tablet or your smartphone in line with the screen on a slightly sloping surface for easy reading without bending your neck. Use an in-line document holder.
Mouse in line with the shoulder
Avoid reaching for the mouse; use a compact keyboard, possibly with a separate numerical part that you can also place on the left. Increase productivity by also using a separate compact keyboard when using a laptop or tablet.
For extra comfort, use a large heat-insulating mouse pad. The mouse cursor moves smoothly across the screen on any table and your mouse hand stays warm.
Work with 2 screens if you regularly work with two applications at the same time. Put the most used screen right in front of you. If you often need to compare data from multiple applications, put both screens in the middle in front of you.