It is a tragic, yet well known rule of human nature that people pay very little attention to things until they go wrong. People eat junk food until they get fat and out of shape, or until they develop serious health problems. They put off starting a savings account until they fall behind and get into debt. With so many people forgetting to do these kinds of basic tasks, it is no wonder that few people bother to select proper computer office furniture. Even relatively wealthy executives tend to have computer desks that are not right for them. They will select a lovely oak wooden desk, for example, that is too high so that they can convey their stature and importance. Or perhaps they will select a compact computer desk so they can save room for an indoor outdoor putting green. Whatever the reason, almost no one takes ergonomic design into consideration – that is until he develops serious health problems.
If you're an office worker, your computer desk and computer chair are absolutely crucial to your health. Most ergonomic experts recommend that everything be set up in a very precise way. Your keyboard has to have just the right angle relative to your arms, your screen has to be at just the right level, and your chair has to have sufficient padding and keep your legs at a comfortable angle. Although the ideal measurements vary a little bit from year to year, the essential design principles remain the same. Having a computer desk that is in line with the newest science can save you from incredible discomfort and long-term health problems.
Sitting still might not seem like such a physically taxing job, but it takes its toll when you do it hour after hour, day after day. If your computer desk is not at the right level, you might have to crane your neck up, put your arms in an awkward position, or slouch to get your work done. Any of these positions can cause problems, particularly if you do a lot of typing.
Of course, having a computer desk is where good workplace safety starts for office workers, but it is not where it ends. Even the best office desks are no substitute for healthy habits. People who spend a lot of time sitting down in front of a computer need to exercise at least three times a week. They need to get up for frequent, short breaks, stretch several times a day, and not sit still for more than an hour and a half at a time.
|
