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Ergonomic furniture is designed to prevent repetitive stress injury by following scientific principles of ergonomics. This includes chairs, tables, and desks that allow for healthy and efficient use of the furniture. Ergonomic studies are used to design equipment that allows for safe and comfortable work, especially for computer workers who sit for long periods of time. It is important to consult with an ergonomic specialist to ensure that the furniture is appropriate for the individual and their job.
Ergonomic furniture is any piece of furniture – a chair, table or desk – designed to allow someone to use the furniture without suffering repetitive stress injury. Ergonomic furniture designers follow a set of scientific principles that help people use furniture in ways that stay healthy while maximizing performance. Essentially, any piece of furniture designed around the science and study of ergonomics would be considered ergonomic furniture.
Ergonomics, also called human engineering, is the study of how the human body works and interacts with objects. The results of ergonomic studies are used in the design of methods and equipment that allow humans to do their jobs efficiently, comfortably and safely, both in the short and long term. For example, an ergonomics study might involve determining the best method for performing a repetitive task, such as cutting beef. The study could focus on avoiding short-term muscle fatigue that could lead to injury and to avoid long-term damage to joints and tendons from repetitive stress.
This kind of furniture is designed in line with the results of ergonomic studies. For example, an ergonomic chair would be designed to ensure that the person sitting in the chair uses correct posture. The chair would have a 90 degree back angle and with lumbar support for the lower back, to avoid stress on the back muscles or long term damage to the spine. An ergonomic chair would also offer adjustable features, ensuring that people of different sizes could adjust the seat height to allow them to sit with their feet flat on the floor and their knees at a 90-degree angle. The design of the adjustable armrests can also contribute to the comfort of an ergonomic chair.
The equipment in use does not have to actually touch the operator to be considered ergonomic furniture. A desk or table can also be designed as ergonomic furnishing accessories. For example, an ergonomic desktop should be at the right height for the worker so they don’t have to stretch or bend uncomfortably to work on the top of the desk. If the computer equipment will be used on an ergonomic desk, a keyboard tray should be at the correct height and the display monitor should also be angled correctly.
When it comes to computer equipment, using this type of furniture is especially important. Chairs, desks, tables and computer equipment should all work together to ensure worker safety. Repetitive stress can be a serious health issue for computer workers who tend to sit and type for long periods of time. Using ergonomic furniture can help prevent repetitive stress problems.
Even if you buy ergonomic types of furniture, you may want to consult with an ergonomic specialist to make sure it’s appropriate for your body type and the type of job you’ll be using it for. Ergonomic furniture alone won’t protect against repetitive stress injuries—you also need to have it set up correctly. If you want more information on ergonomics, you may want to check out the US Department of Labor’s findings on ergonomics and ergonomic furniture. Conducting a search for “OSHA and ergonomics” should help you get there.
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