When shopping for office furniture, what should you look for? There are several issues to consider, including the material, size, and color. Another important matter is office furniture design. As with other types of furniture, the design of office furniture plays a crucial role in both its form and function.
Today, one of the key components of furniture design (such as office furniture) is ergonomics. Basically, this is the science of making various human tasks as functional possible. Ergonomics draws from various fields, ranging from psychology to engineering. The term “ergonomics” actually refers to “human engineering.” It differs from traditional engineering, as it also takes into account various humanistic factors. Here are some of the main benefits of furniture (such as office furniture design) that uses ergonomics:
1. It benefits people of different heights and weights
Unfortunately, office furniture that’s mass-produced on assembly lines, doesn’t take this fact into consideration. For instance, those who are particularly tall or wide may have difficulty fitting into “standard” furniture. On the other hand, office furniture with ergonomic considerations can be comfy for people of different shapes and sizes. The functionality of such furniture will make all workers more at ease.
2. It reduces injuries
This is another key benefit of office furniture design that incorporates ergonomics. That’s because the human body’s structure is considered when engineers design the various types of furniture. For instance, ergonomic chairs are designed in a way to reduce the amount of strain on a worker’s neck, back, and so on. Consider the fact that most many office workers remain seated for most of the eight-hour workday. By manufacturing furniture that “fits” the sitter better, he or she will be less prone to become injured by working.
3. It makes workers more productive
Workers who use ergonomic furniture will be more comfy throughout the day. And that translates into higher levels of efficiency. On the other hand, “standard” office furniture can make one’s work seem uncomfortable or unnatural. And ultimately that will result in their work being more efficient and productive.
Here are some helpful tips for buying ergonomic furniture for your office:
1. Adjust desk heights when necessary
How do you know when an office desk is the proper height? While your hands are sitting on a computer keyboard, your upper-arm should be perpendicular to the floor. If necessary, you can prop up or cut down a desk’s legs, to adjust their height.
2. Choose a chair that helps your body to sit pretty
When choosing ergonomic office furniture design pieces, the chair is one of the most important pieces. If the chair has a back, then make sure that it supports the sitter’s entire back. This will help to ensure that the back, neck, and head are aligned properly. Look for chairs that are adjustable, so they can fit people of different heights and widths. Also, if the chair has wheels, then look for those with a minimum of five wheels-to prevent the seat from toppling.
3. Drawers and cabinets should be high enough
For instance, file cabinet drawers should be high enough off the ground that you don’t strain your back muscles when you need to bend down to open or close them.