Some workplace trends may ebb and flow, however, ergonomic office furniture is one facet of commercial office design that continues to gain popularity. The scientifically designed furniture and technology has been proven to benefit the health and well-being of office staff. Today, ergonomic office pieces blend state-of-the-art technology with an attractive aesthetic to help create a space that provides health benefits to users. Here’s what you need to know about ergonomic designs in your commercial space.
What Is Ergonomics?
Simply put, ergonomics is about creating a workplace in accordance with its users’ needs. Ergonomics focuses on designing everyday office tools to fit the handler’s form, thereby increasing efficiency and decreasing discomfort. This scientific approach to workplace design considers angles, placement, support, and most importantly, examines how each relates to our individual human forms.
Consider the height of your office chair in relation to the computer monitor. Ergonomic placement of each can dramatically improve posture, mobility, and comfort while reducing strain on muscles, joints, and eyes. Through understanding the human body and its movement, ergonomics seeks to improve all aspects of the office environment with conscious and thoughtful design.
What is Ergonomic Furniture?
The ergonomic office chair has been around for decades and continues to be a key piece in any modern commercial office space. Each year, we see new inventions in ergonomic design that seek to improve users’ experience by fostering their physical health. We spend about eight hours a day in the office and a significant amount of time in our desk chairs. The modern ergonomic office chair may now include tilters, adjustable lumbar support, memory foam seats, and moveable arm rests. The science behind each feature is based on the variety of human body types, abilities, and needs.
Ergonomics also seeks to encourage movement throughout the day. Traditional office furniture has forced users to remain rigid and sedentary; however, the sit-to-stand desk allows the operator to work in healthy seated and standing positions throughout the day. Providing comfortable mats with standing desks will reduce lower back pain and joint stress. Ergonomic keyboards, phones, and headsets encourage natural movement when using each item. Users won’t strain to hold a phone between their neck and shoulder, nor will they hold wrists and hands in awkward positions when typing or dialing.
Innovations in Ergonomics
Science has answered many physical needs through advancements in ergonomic office furniture design. We are now seeing a greater emphasis placed on the prevention of mental strain, stress, and burn-out. Ergonomics is growing to include practices beyond monitor placement, neutral positioning, and physical movement. Apps to promote micro-breaks and mindfulness can be considered ergonomic innovations, reducing pain and discomfort on a mental level.
Implementing ergonomic design and furnishings throughout your commercial office space can greatly increase the health and well-being of your staff. By choosing ergonomic chairs, desks, and technology, you may increase efficiency and provide a space that employees enjoy using each day. At Environments Denver, we understand the importance of attractive and functional commercial office design and can help you maximize the use of your space. For an ergonomic consultation, contact us today.
