Talk

Flip

Chat with other users about all things related to working life on our Work forum.

Work

Computer desk /seating ergonomic assessments??

5 replies

janmoomoo · 07/04/2009 22:19

DH works from home for himself, but is graphic designer so is at desk ALL day. Is suffering from bad back (now its shoulders, small of back AND coccyx!) I am sure its his desk set up.

Anyone know anything about this? I was hoping there was a website which would tell you the ideal set up ie height and distance etc, but cant seem to find anything useful. Also can you get anyone out to give advice (and would it cost a fortune?). Heard there are charities that do this.

All advice appreciated. Must get him sorted out before he turns into a complete wreck...!!

OP posts:

Report

flowerybeanbag · 08/04/2009 08:46

A lot of the HSE guidance it looks like you have to pay for, which is a bit rubbish if you ask me, but this leaflet is free, and might be useful, about having screen level with eyes, that kind of thing.

Report

janmoomoo · 09/04/2009 13:11

Thanks beanbag.

OP posts:

Report

BetsyBoop · 09/04/2009 18:44

also if you google "display screen equipment checklist" there are loads come up, so you can pick one & effectively do your own assessment, rather than pay someone else to do it

Report

callmeovercautious · 10/04/2009 00:08

IME the best thing he can do is buy a really good chair (they can cost up to £200) and have a good desk. The screen should be adjustable and you can get keyboard and mouse "wrist rests" that help.

If he is short and his feet dont sit flat on the floor he should also have a foot rest (usually anyone under 5'5" but it varies).

If he is tall (over 6') look at raising the height of the desk.

Taking a break from the sreen every hour for at least 10 minutes is what we recommend at work, preferably walking about the office and getting a drink/snack. This tends to happen naturally in an office; you get up to go to the printer, chat to a friend, make a coffee while you are up etc. At home you tend to stagnate! I have been there I used to set my mobile to alarm every 90 mins which meant I got a fag break! (when I smoked!).

Report

janmoomoo · 10/04/2009 19:21

Thanks, all the info I have found on google is too basic really. Just says obvious things like make sure your stapler is in reach so you dont have to stretch etc.

He is 6ft4 so I was wondering about raising the desk. Might have to try putting it up on some bricks or something!

Think it is too easy for him to sit there all day without taking breaks like you tend to in an office.