Introduction
Cheap tips for safe
computing
Workspace Setup
Chairs and footrests
Monitor
Keyboard and mouse
Desktop layout
Lighting
Noise
Preventative Measures
Caring for your eyes
Back problems
Adjusting your posture
Stretching at your desk
Reducing stress
Organizing your work
Ergonomic devices
Health Concerns
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Repetitive strain injury
Eye strain
Summary Checklist
Helpful Links
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Chairs and Footrests
Are you comfortable at your desk? A poorly-adjusted chair can contribute to fatigue, headaches, or sore muscles you feel after a long day at the office. If your chair is part of the problem, there are several remedies to try.
Choose the right chair.
- The size of the chair should be appropriate for you.
- The seat pan should be wide enough for comfort.
- The chair should have casters that provide easy gliding without hazard.
- The front of the seat should be slightly rounded to ensure good leg circulation.
- The seat and seatback should not be rigidly joined together.
- The seatback should be easy to tilt forward or backward, preferably while seated.
- The seatback should provide sufficient lumbar support, and your lower back should lean against the backrest.
- The seat height should be easy to adjust.
- The chair should be supported by a five-legged base for stability.
- Elbow rests may be preferable to arm rests.
Adjust your chair.
- Your lower back should lean against the backrest. If you can't adjust the backrest for full support, put a small pillow, a lumbar roll, or a rolled-up towel behind your lower back.
- Adjust the height of your chair so your forearms are parallel to the floor and your feet rest firmly on the ground. You should have about 3 to 6 inches of leg room between the desk and your lap.
- If your feet don't reach the floor, use a footrest to support them.
Note: If you have a HermanMiller Ambi Chair at your desk, and would like to adjust its arm height, arm angle, back height, seat height, seat depth, or tilt tension, click here for instructions.
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