Office ergonomics – how do I set up an ergonomic office?
Office ergonomics – regulations
Nowadays, the use of some kind of computer equipment is almost indispensable when performing intellectual work. Office work and sedentary work may seem easy, but in reality, countless factors can make it stressful.
With regard to screen-based work, a decree issued by the Ministry of Health in 1999 is still in force in 2021. Since then, however, there have been significant developments in computer technology that have not been reflected in the legal regulations. Desktop computers have been replaced by mobile devices and laptops, and so-called open office solutions have become widespread, presenting employees with a number of other challenges.
The vast majority of employers ensure compliance with the conditions set out in Decree 50/1999 (XI.3.) EüM, i.e. they provide adjustable chairs and tables with casters and strive to let in as much natural light as possible. Therefore, I would like to say a few words about the most common problems encountered by office workers.
Office ergonomics – what should you consider?
An office floor furnished with designer furniture looks beautiful, but it is useless if employees cannot work comfortably and healthily in it.
Numerous factors must be taken into account during the design phase of a building. Where possible, the building's fresh air intake should not be located at the same height as the exhaust pipe of the neighboring fast food restaurant's kitchen.
On countless occasions, employees complain that the ventilation system blows fresh air directly onto their desks, forcing them to sit in a draft all day and causing them to suffer from almost constant upper respiratory and joint pain. To remedy this, they try to „block” the opening in various ways. A good solution to this problem is a mobile workstation, which has the advantage of allowing employees to sit at a desk they like, even changing it every day. Another solution is a plexiglass panel installed at the outlet of the ventilation system, which changes the path of the exhaust air so that it does not flow directly onto the person sitting below.
Another common problem is when something like a ceiling lamp or safety lighting gets in the way of the worker's peripheral vision. It's a good idea to think about these things when you're planning where to put the desks, so you can save yourself a lot of hassle later on.
Huge glass surfaces may seem like a good idea, but in this case, it is important to remember to provide adequate shading and to consider the orientation of the building. During the hottest days of summer, a fully glazed, south-facing office can become unbearably hot in a matter of moments, even with air conditioning. Another problem is that poorly positioned desks can cause significant glare and image distortion on screens, even with shading.
When using laptops, it is important to bear in mind that prolonged downward gaze (hanging your neck) can cause harmful effects, including neck pain, headaches, and spinal problems. It is highly recommended to use a laptop stand to raise the monitor to a suitable height, thus avoiding permanent health damage.
If possible, provide additional peripheral devices for your laptop (mouse, keyboard, and second monitor).
If you have any further questions or need advice, please do not hesitate to contact us!
