FT NEWS

Ergonomic furniture is gaining popularity in the furniture industry because of its ability to adapt to the individual requirements of the user. This type of furniture is specifically designed to function in harmony with the shape and natural curvature of the human body so as to ensure maximum comfort and overall wellness of the user. Ergonomic furniture is recommended in areas like the home office and offices where one tends to spend a lot of time sitting in one place.

What are the benefits of using ergonomic furniture?

• Ergonomic furniture keeps the user’s body in a safe and upright position so that good posture reduces the chance of any sort of body pain, stress or injury.
• This type of furniture is usually adjustable and can be customised to the specific requirements of the user.

What are the disadvantages of ergonomic furniture?

• Ergonomic furniture is more expensive than conventional furniture.
• Another drawback is that since every user has different requirements, the furniture that is ergonomic for one user may not be so for the other.

What are the characteristics of an ergonomic chair?
An ergonomic chair is user-friendly because it allows one to sit in a comfortable position throughout the day. Thus, ergonomic chairs for offices are in high demand.

• The height of the chair seat should be adjustable so as to achieve the correct height required by the user.
• The backrest of the chair should be adjustable vertically and should recline slightly. Also, the chair should have firm lumbar support for the lower back.
• The depth of the chairs should be such that it is comfortable for the user.
• The chairs should have a very stable base. A five-point base, as seen in the image above, is considered to be very stable.
• Ergonomic chairs have a swivel feature that enables the user to move around swiftly without getting up from the seat. As a result, this feature reduces unnecessary body movements.

What are the features to look for in an ergonomic sofa?
An ergonomic sofa provides good support to the body and maximises comfort. These sofas are available in various styles – the sectional sofa, sofa-cum-bed, modern sofa, chaise longue and so on.

• The height of the sofa seating should be such that one’s hips are not below the knees when in a seated position. Also, the knees should be at an angle of 90 degrees.
• The height of the backrest from the ground should range from 34 to 38 inches so that the user can maintain a correct posture while sitting. The neck comfortably rests on it at this height, so it supports the head as well.
• The sofa should have armrests at the height of the elbow.
• Ergonomic sofas have firm seats and a soft back.The foam used for the seats and headrest should be stress-resistant

What are the features of an ergonomic desk?

• The height of the desk should be such that the user’s forearm is not raised above waist height while working on the keyboard.
• The user should be able to sit comfortably with their feet flat on the ground and knees bent at an angle of 90 degrees.
• The desk should be designed to be uncluttered; all the basic stationary and other utility items should be within easy reach.
• The surface of the table should have a matte finish so there is no glare, which might be produced by a glossy surface.