• March 19, 2018
  • 4 min.

What exactly does ergonomic working entail? Ergonomic working revolves around a working method that prevents physical complaints as much as possible. These physical complaints arise in the workplace, for example, due to incorrect sitting posture or unsuitable furniture. Of course, you can also contribute to an ergonomic working method yourself. That is why we are providing various tips in this blog to help you work optimally. With these 7 tips, you can prevent physical complaints and make your working life a lot more pleasant.

1. Ergonomic office chairs

Ergonomic working starts with sitting properly. On an average working day, you spend around 8 hours sitting at your desk. Of course, you can make sure you have an optimal sitting posture, but one of the most important factors is the furniture itself. By choosing anergonomic office chair, you can be sure that your body will receive the right support while sitting. The great thing about ergonomic office chairs is that there are extensive options for adjusting the chair to your liking. This allows you to optimally adjust the chair to your height and sitting posture. In addition, the more luxurious models often feature various mechanisms that allow the chair to move naturally with your body. Enjoy a comfortable sitting position and the right support, and you will notice that your physical complaints will quickly disappear.

2. Opt for an ergonomic desk

In addition to the chair you sit on, there is another important factor for working ergonomically: the desk. It is important to have a desk that is adjusted to the right working height for you. This also ensures that your monitor is at a comfortable height and that your arms can rest comfortably on the desk. Take your ergonomic working method one step further by choosing a sit-stand desk. Theseergonomic desksallow you to break up long periods of sitting. With a simple adjustment, you can set the desk to the desired height. Regularly slide your office chair aside and choose to continue working while standing. By alternating between sitting and standing, you promote blood circulation and protect your muscles and joints.

3. Correct working posture

Have you opted forergonomic office furniture? Then it is important to use your new furniture correctly. Your feet should be firmly on the floor, with your legs at the correct sitting height at a 90° angle. Your arms should also rest on the armrests at a 90° angle. Wout Monseurs offers seating advice for the optimal adjustment of your office chair and desk. This ensures that you can take full advantage of your ergonomic workplace.

4. Choose the right accessories

The right accessories can complete your ergonomic workspace. Consider, for example, special ergonomic mice, designed to prevent finger, wrist, and neck problems. There are also various options available for adjusting the height of your monitor. If you use a fixed screen, a monitor arm can be the solution. This allows you to adjust your monitor to the height and position that is optimal for you. For laptops, a laptop stand is the solution. This puts your laptop at an angle and positions it at a better height.

5. Get enough exercise

We already mentioned this when discussing ergonomic desks: varying your posture is good for you. That's why it's important to get regular exercise. Avoid sitting or standing for too long by performing small tasks. Get moving at least once an hour: get your own coffee, ask your colleague a question directly at his or her desk instead of sending an email. Or go to the toilet on a different floor. This prevents you from sitting or standing still for too long and gives your body the exercise it needs.

6. Drink enough water

Drinking enough water ensures that waste products in your body can be eliminated more quickly. Drink at least two liters a day. An additional benefit of drinking plenty of water? You will have to get up more regularly to visit the toilet. And that in turn contributes to getting enough exercise during your working day. A win-win situation!

7. Less blue light and bright screens

Looking at a screen for long periods of time can cause health problems. Your eyes in particular have to work hard and can feel dry and/or tired. Make sure your screen is not too bright and that it is balanced with the light level in your working environment. In addition, screens emit blue light. This blue light can have a negative impact on your well-being. For example, blue light interferes with the production of melatonin, which makes you feel sleepy in the evening. Too much exposure to blue light, especially in the evening, can therefore affect your day and night rhythm.

Especially during the dark winter days and on days when you work longer hours, it can be wise to limit your exposure to blue light. There are handy apps for computers, such as F.lux, which regulate the amount of blue light depending on the time of day. Smartphones and tablets now often have a night mode that filters blue light. How do you ensure an ergonomic workplace where you can work comfortably without health problems? For advice on ergonomic furniture, you are welcome to visit ourshowroom in Breda.