Finding the right ergonomic chair is a common problem especially for people who want to purchase new equipment to make workstations safer and healthier places. There are many “ergonomic” chairs available but it can be a mistake to purchase one simply because it is labelled “ergonomic”.
Say No to ONE chair fits all
Some features are mandatory for a good chair regardless of how you intend to use it:
Adjustability – Check to see that seat height is adjustable.
Seat height range – Check whether the seat height can be adjusted to the height recommended for the worker(s) who will use it. Other chairs may have to be selected for very short or tall workers.
Backrest – Check to see that the backrest is adjustable both vertically and in the frontward and backward direction.
The right chair for you
Today, in industrialized countries, many people sit for most of the time that they are awake. They sit while having breakfast, while going to work in cars or buses, in school classrooms, in meetings, in offices, during dinner, and at home while watching television. Many people also sit at work operating machines which new technology has developed to replace manual work.
Solving the Ergonomic Problem
A well-designed chair allows the user to sit in a balanced position. Buying an ergonomic chair is a good beginning but it may not bring the benefits expected. The actual sitting position depends on an individual’s personal habits; he or she has to learn and practice how to sit properly.
What is Ergonomics
Ergonomic chairs are designed to suit a range of people; however, there is no guarantee that they will suit any one person in particular.