In this post, we explain how you should set up your desk and workstation so that it is ergonomic and can improve both your comfort and productivity.

Set your desk height

Most office desks are static and fixed at 72-75cm high which may not be the correct height for you when you have set up your chair correctly. A desk height that is too low can cause a 'C' shaped spine and musculoskeletal pain. A desk that is too high will cause the shoulders to 'shrug' leading to neck tension.

Standing Desks are electronically height adjustable at the touch of a button. Alternatively, Desk Raisers sit under the desk feet to increase height by 3cm increments.

Set-up your Monitor

Set the monitor screen at arm's length and at a height where the top of the screen is at eye level. A Monitor Arm is a great product to raise the monitor to the desired height. Position the screen at 90 degrees to any light source avoiding glare/reflections.

Have regular eye checks and ensure, if you need glasses, that you select the appropriate lenses for VDU use.

Set up your Keyboard and Mouse

The keyboard and mouse should be within a zone of easy reach. It is useful to be ambidextrous with the mouse so that either arm can be rested if doing a lot of mouse work.

To bring the mouse closer to your body, a shorter (300mm) keyboard is advantageous if the numerical keypad is not required.

Set-up your Telephone

Cradling the phone between your neck and shoulder causes severe muscle tension.

If you regularly use the phone, consider a headset.

Utilise Document Holders and Writing Slopes

When referring to paperwork, use a Document Holder to position the data to prevent prolonged periods of neck flexion.

A Writing Slope reduces the viewing distance, lessens eye strain and encourages a balanced posture.

Using a Laptop?

All the above principles apply. If using a Laptop for extended periods, a height-adjustable stand and separate keyboard/mouse are recommended.

A laptop stand should also be used to place the laptop in the most ergonomic position.