Ergonomic Chairs FAQs

Ergonomic Chairs FAQ's

Why to buy an ergonomic chair?

There are two primary reasons why investing in a good ergonomic office chair is important:

  1. Health benefits: Many people spend long hours sitting at their desks. An adjustable chair that fits and supports your body can significantly improve back and neck health, circulation, and shoulder comfort.
  2. Productivity boost: Consider the total cost of an employee, including salary, benefits, training, office space, and equipment. A good chair is a small part of this investment, but its impact can be substantial. Uncomfortable seating can lead to distractions, frequent breaks, and reduced productivity. In the long term, it may even result in absenteeism due to health issues.

Additionally, ergonomic office chairs, also known as task chairs, can improve employee satisfaction. Comfortable seating may encourage employees to work longer hours when necessary and contribute to a more positive work environment.

How to choose an ergonomic chair?

When selecting an ergonomic office chair or task chair, consider the following factors:

  • Adjustability: The chair should be highly adjustable to fit and support the user properly.
  • Seat height: Should allow thighs to be parallel to the floor with feet flat on the ground.
  • Seat depth: Ensure 3-4 fingers can fit between the front edge of the seat and the lower leg.
  • Armrest height: Adjustable to allow easy forearm support without interfering with keyboard or mouse use.
  • Lumbar support: Should match the natural curve of the user's lower back.
  • Movement: The chair should move naturally with the user, with appropriate casters for the floor surface and adjustable tilt tension

For a more in-depth understanding of ergonomic features and how they contribute to your comfort and well-being, we invite you to read our comprehensive guide on "Understanding Ergonomic Features in Office Chairs". This guide will provide you with valuable insights to help you make an informed decision when choosing your next ergonomic office chair.

Task Mechanism
Operator Mechanism
Tilter Mechanism
Multi Tilter Mechanism

How to sit in an ergonomic office chair?

A chair with proper lumbar support ensures better posture by keeping the hips, ears, and shoulders aligned

  1. Familiarize yourself with all the chair's controls and adjustments.
  2. Adjust the chair according to the guidelines in the "How to Adjust An Ergonomic Chair" section (below).
  3. Sit back in the chair, utilizing its full support rather than perching on the edge.
  4. Ensure your keyboard and mouse are positioned correctly, possibly using a keyboard tray or height-adjustable surface.

How to Adjust An Ergonomic Chair:

  1. Stand in front of the chair.
  2. Adjust the height so the highest point of the seat is just below the knee cap.
  3. Your thighs should be parallel to the floor, when you sit. This allows you to place your feet on the floor insuring good circulation in the legs.
  4. Use a footrest if the feet cannot rest flat on the floor or if there is pressure underneath the thighs. The footrest should be adjustable and support the whole foot.
  5. Sit so that the clearance between the front edge of the seat and the upper part of the legs behind the knee, is at least one finger width.
  6. Adjust the back height to provide support to the lumbar or lower back area. This will help you to maintain correct posture and reduce back pain.
  7. Adjust the seat angle by unlocking the mechanism to tilt the seat forward or rearward when working for extended periods of time. This minimizes pressure on the underside of the thighs and reduces tension on back muscles.
  8. Adjust the back angle to provide firm support and help reduce back fatigue.
  9. Adjust the optional armrest height to your comfort.
  10. If using a fixed height work surface, raise the chair to obtain the proper arm and upper body position.
  11. Adjust chair height so elbows are about the same height as the work surface.

The Benefits of Investing in Ergonomic Chairs

Investing in ergonomic chairs offers numerous advantages that can significantly enhance the workplace environment. These benefits include:

Workplace Happiness

Ergonomics and happiness are closely intertwined in the workplace, as demonstrated by Irvin Goldman's article "Good Office Ergonomics Lead to Happiness & Success". Good posture, a key aspect of ergonomics, has been shown to significantly impact an employee's mood, confidence, and overall productivity. According to data from Lumo Lift Posture Coach, only 36% of Americans' workdays are spent sitting with good posture, with workers spending up to 38 minutes per hour slouching. This poor posture can lead to various health issues, including back pain, which is the second leading cause of doctor visits after the common cold. By implementing proper ergonomic practices, such as maintaining good posture, employees can experience increased confidence, reduced stress, and improved organ function. These benefits contribute to a more positive work environment, better leadership qualities, and ultimately, greater happiness and success in the workplace.

Increased Productivity

Ergonomic office chairs significantly boost productivity by providing comfort and reducing physical strain. Employees experience fewer aches and pains, allowing them to focus on their work for longer periods without frequent breaks. A study by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries revealed a remarkable 25% increase in productivity after implementing ergonomic solutions in the workplace

Win-Win: Enhanced Worker Health Reduces Compensation Claims

Furthermore, investing in ergonomic seating can lead to a substantial reduction in workers' compensation claims. Spine Research Institute at Ohio State Universityfound that ergonomics-centered workplace interventions resulted in a 64% decrease in work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), a 71% reduction in MSD injury rates, and 77% fewer lost workdays. By prioritizing employee comfort and well-being through ergonomic solutions, businesses can minimize costly claims and reduce medical insurance expenses associated with treating chronic back and neck issues

These benefits underscore the importance of ergonomic chairs in fostering a healthier, more productive, and happier workforce.

Is Using Ergonomic Chairs a Cost or an Investment?

After analyzing the benefits, it is clear that not investing in ergonomic seating can lead to staggering costs in terms of health and productivity. Ergonomic chairs are not just an expense but a strategic investment that pays off by enhancing employee well-being, reducing absenteeism, and boosting overall productivity. The long-term savings and benefits far outweigh the initial costs, making ergonomic chairs a wise investment for any business.