Associating the Use of Ergonomic Office Chairs with Increased Productivity

The Importance of Ergonomics in Productivity

Ergonomics come from the terms ergon and nomoi, which in Greek means work and natural laws, respectively. In general, the science of ergonomics is aimed to fit the work to the worker rather than trying to fit the worker to the work. This discipline studies the interaction between man and other environmental factors that can affect his ability to perform efficiently the task at hand.It is the task of an ergonomist to apply this principle in developing new job plans and designing or improving existing work systems that can fully utilize a person's capabilities. They also analyze the tasks that results to products and the system in general, then make recommendations on how to improve these factors to suit the requirements and boundaries of the worker.

Ergonomics in the Office Environment

One such application of ergonomics principle is the design of office furniture, specifically the office chairs. When a job requires that a worker be confined to a chair most of the time, it would be best if that chair can provide the comfort and support that the body needs. In cases like this, the best solution is to use comfortable and functional chairs for the staff. Providing the workers with this necessary work place comfort not only benefits the worker but also the productivity of the company as well.

Ideal Office Chair Features

To maintain the air of professionalism, chairs used in the office must be comfortable enough without straying away from being conformist. Ergonomic office chairs come in various designs but not all can offer comfort and functionality at once, therefore the following guide should be ample enough to aid in choosing the best chair for every kind of people in the office:

1. The seat: The height of the chair seat should be adjusted easily by the user to allow their feet to fall flat on the floor and reduce stress. The seat's dimensions should also be sufficient enough to support the worker.
2. Back support: The chair's back rest should support the lumbar and upper back of the worker to protect him from back aches and pains even after long periods of sitting.
3. Chair armrests: The worker should be able to comfortably rest his shoulders and arms at any level he wants with the adjustable armrests.