The new work year is now in full swing and some people will be back at work in a less-than-ideal office. But there are ways to make your desk and workspace healthier and a bit more bearable.
Richard Andrews, Managing Director of Inspiration Office, an Africa-wide office space and furniture consultancy, said: “Making even small tweaks can make the workplace a more comfortable and pleasant experience in 2017 and beyond.”
These are his top 10 suggestions for reducing the risk of injury and improving workplace well-being:
1. Bin the ball
It has become quite trendy to sit on an exercise ball while at your desk. The truth is that many find them unconformable and impractical. If you don’t like the ball, the best bet is to use a comfortable, ergonomic chair.
2. Get the screen right
To reduce eye and neck strain, raise your screen so your eyes are looking directly at it when you are sitting normally. Most people tend to look down at their screen, placing particular strain on the neck. If budget allows, a computer monitor arm will help workers easily set the screen at optimal height.
3. Remember a wrist rest for keyboards
Typing on a keyboard for long periods can place unnatural strain on the wrists. Adding a wrist rest is a quick, cost-effective and ergonomically-sound solution.
4. Light up, light down
An adjustable work lamp on the desk is a boon for workers so they can control their immediate lighting. This can help with controlling glare on computer screens and illuminating your work when necessary.
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5. Sit and stand
Vary your posture between sitting and standing. Many offices now offer places where you can stand and work. Standing meetings are another option. It tends to keep them short!
6. Move, but treadmills are for gyms
To stay active, it’s best to take short walks through the day. Lunch break is a good time. It helps to clear the mind, and reduce body stiffness from sitting too long in one position.
7. Rest your eyes at regular intervals
To reduce eyestrain from staring at a computer monitor for long spells, add rest breaks to refocus and rest your eyes. It often helps to look into the far distance during these breaks.
8. Expose yourself to sunlight
Long hours under artificial light can sour the mood of even the sunniest character. It’s a good idea to work in a sunny spot or at least walk through a sunny area a few times a day.
9. Surround yourself with plants
Place plants in your workplace or visit greenery during the workday. Plants are proven to reduce stress and increase productivity.
10. View the outdoors if you can
It’s not an option for everyone, but if you can look at a natural setting while working at your desk, it improves memory and focus. If it’s not possible, even looking at images of nature through the day will help create a sense of well-being.