Set Up Your Desk to Reduce Strain and Stress at Work

Learn these good ergonomic practices for a relaxing workday.

Just the normal stress and strain of the work you do is plenty. However, do you know that the way you sit and use your desk space can add to physical stress and strain at work? You’re probably not aware of just how much strain may be on your body by just being at your desk. Make these few changes and you will begin to see results.

That’s right, you’ll see results in the form of less stress and strain, and most likely you’ll even have more energy than ever after your day at work. Setting up your desk for good ergonomics means the goal is to keep your body in a neutral position as you go about your daily tasks.

Your desk or workspace should allow you to place your monitor at least twenty inches from your eyes and so it is centered with your body. The top of the monitor should be at eye level to prevent eye and neck strain.

Height of your desk should be about elbow height when you are sitting at your desk. Usually this is between twenty and twenty-eight inches from the floor. If you have a fixed desk height, you may consider using a keyboard tray to place your keyboard and mouse at the proper height for optimal ergonomics.

Avoid glass desktops or any finish that could cause a glare. Even a small amount of glare at your workstation can place undue stress on your eyes.

Also make sure there is sufficient space under your desk for your legs to be in a comfortable position no matter which way you are sitting. Minimum under desk clearance for your legs should be fifteen inches from your knees. Making a few simple changes to your desk can produce a much more comfortable and less stressful work environment

Reference: http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/computerworkstations/checklist.html#purchase