Do you also spend your days sitting in front of your computer? It is essential to set up an ergonomic workstation for your health and productivity. In this guide, we explain what an ergonomic workstation is and guide you in setting up yours.

What is an ergonomic workstation?

An ergonomic workstation corresponds to a workspace that promotes the comfort, safety and productivity of its user while minimizing the risk of posture-related problems.

Here are the different criteria that define an ergonomic workstation:

Dynamic seating

Staying in a static sitting position for a long time is bad for your health. The use of ergonomic chairs or ball seats allows for dynamic seating that encourages movement and helps reduce fatigue with frequent position changes.

For example, the Ballon balloon seat is specially designed to promote dynamic and ergonomic sitting. You can find out more about Blouson active seating by consulting our article: Bloon active seating, The ergonomic solution for your well-being

In addition, if you would like more information on dynamic seating, do not hesitate to consult our posture: Dynamic Seating: The solution for better ergonomics at work.

Customizable desk height

An inappropriate desk height can cause pain and muscle problems. An ergonomic workstation should allow you to adjust the height of your desk according to your height. When you are in a seated position your elbows should be able to maintain a 90 degree angle.

Freedom of movement

An ergonomic workstation must allow you to move freely without restricting your movements, the space under the desk must be sufficient and the workspace adjustable. Good freedom of movement helps reduce fatigue and improves blood circulation, since it allows you not to stay in a static position.

Modular workstation

Your workstation accessories, such as the keyboard, screen and mouse, must be modular and adjustable according to your needs. Your computer screen should be positioned at eye level or a little lower to avoid neck strain and about 1 arm's length away to avoid damaging your eyes. Your keyboard and mouse should be placed so that your elbows are positioned at 90 degrees and your arms are not tense.

Adequate lighting

Concerning lighting, an ergonomic workstation must be sufficiently lit to avoid eye fatigue and reduce productivity. The ergonomic workstation must be equipped with adjustable lighting positioned so as not to create reflection on the screen. Suitable lighting improves concentration, reduces eye fatigue and makes the working environment more pleasant.

Explanatory image of an ergonomic workstation.

Choose the right furniture

Ergonomic ball seat

Dynamic seating is an essential criterion for an ergonomic workstation, the Ballon balloon seat is designed to promote active and ergonomic sitting which improves your posture, comfort and productivity. To find out more about the benefits of the Bloon Balloon, do not hesitate to consult our article: https://bloon-paris.fr/blogs/siege-ballon/swiss-ball-bureau-bienfaits

Click here to buy your Bloon balloon seat

Sit-stand desk

Using a sit-stand desk for your ergonomic workstation is ideal for customizing the height of your desk and for alternating between sitting and standing throughout your workday. This helps improve blood circulation, reduce fatigue and optimize productivity.

Footrest

The footrest can serve as an accessory to your ergonomic workstation, if your feet are not flat on the ground when you are in a seated position. The footrest helps maintain good posture by supporting your feet and reducing pressure on your lower back and legs. A good footrest is adjustable in inclination and height according to your needs.

Adopt good posture at work

It is essential to adopt good posture at work, to prevent pain, back problems and musculoskeletal disorders. Good posture improves your overall well-being and productivity.

ILLUSTRATION OF GOOD POSTURE

To adopt good posture at the office, the height of your seat must allow you to place your feet flat on the floor or on a footrest with your knees bent at 90 degrees. Be sure to choose an ergonomic chair or ball seat that provides good lumbar support to maintain the natural curve of your spine.

The Balloon chair is a great choice to incorporate into your ergonomic workstation. Thanks to its ergonomic design, the Balloon naturally supports your lower back and promotes good posture.

Your desk should be at a height that allows you to bend your elbows 90 degrees. Your screen about an arm's length away and at eye level or slightly lower. Position your keyboard so that your wrists are in line with your forearms, and place your mouse close to the keyboard to avoid excessive arm movement.

Regarding your position, keep your back straight and shoulders relaxed, avoid leaning forward and keep your head aligned with your spine without tilting it.

If you want to improve your posture on a daily basis at work or at home, you can consult our article: How to adopt good posture on a daily basis.

Stay active at the office

To have an active and balanced life, you need to stay moving even in the office. Spending long hours in the same position behind a desk can harm your health, which is why you should incorporate simple exercises into your daily routine, to reduce musculoskeletal risks, improve blood circulation and increase your well-being and your productivity.

We recommend incorporating stretching and muscle strengthening exercises into the office. You can consult our articles:

• 10 exercises with a ball at the office: For an active and balanced life
• The 12 Best Office Stretches to Relieve Stress and Tension

Finally, to set up an ergonomic workstation you just need to follow a few simple principles and integrate ergonomic furniture into your workspace, such as an ergonomic ball chair which allows you to have good posture naturally without putting pressure on your lumbar support, a sit-stand desk that allows you to adjust your working height. Then make sure to properly position your accessories such as your mouse, keyboard and screen and provide adequate lighting.

FAQ: Ergonomic workstation

• What is an ergonomic workstation?

• An ergonomic workstation promotes comfort and efficiency and productivity, reducing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. It adapts the workspace to the physical needs of employees, with an adjustable seat, a work surface at the right height, and correctly positioned accessories.

• How to make your workstation ergonomic?

• To make your workstation ergonomic, opt for an ergonomic ball chair which allows you to have good posture naturally, a standing-sitting desk which allows you to adjust the working height, place your screen at eye level and align your keyboard and mouse with your wrists.

• What are the rules of workplace ergonomics?

The rules of an ergonomic workstation are:

Adjustable seat height so feet are flat.

• Lumbar support to maintain the natural curvature of the back.
• Desk height adjusted so elbows are at a 90 degree angle.
• Screen at eye level and about an arm's length away.
• Correct keyboard and mouse positioning to avoid wrist strain.
• Adequate lighting to avoid eye strain and glare on the screen.

• What is the purpose of ergonomics at work?

• The objective of ergonomics at work is to adapt the workstation according to the needs of employees by improving comfort and safety. Ergonomics at work helps reduce fatigue, stress and improve productivity.

• How to be ergonomic at work?

• Maintain good posture with lumbar support, organize your space to avoid excessive movement, take regular breaks to stretch, use ergonomic equipment and incorporate exercises into your daily life to stay active.

• What is the correct posture at work?

• Keep your back straight, feet flat, shoulders relaxed, and head aligned with the spine. Elbows should be at 90 degrees, and forearms parallel to the floor.

• What are the advantages of ergonomics for the employee?

• Ergonomics reduces pain and injuries, improves posture and comfort, and increases productivity. It also reduces fatigue and stress, thereby improving general well-being and reducing absences due to occupational illnesses.