subject: Choosing Comfortable, Ergonomic Office Chairs [print this page] Many of us spend the majority of our day sitting in an office chair, with the only break being when we go to the restroom or out for lunch. While it may seem enjoyable not being on one's feet all day, this can be incredibly bad for one's back and blood circulation. Choosing office chairs that properly support good posture can prevent neck, back, and wrist injuries. Not to mention comfortable employees will function better at work, hopefully increasing productivity.
As you shop for ergonomic office chairs, consider all the features and the quality of the chair itself. Start with the height. The chair should provide height adjustment so that the user can sit comfortably with his feet on the floor and his knees at a 90 degree angle and parallel to the hips. As for the armrests, they should allow the person to sit with his shoulders at a relaxed position when working. They, too, should be adjustable. This is important for people who type at the computer for a majority of the day. The backrest should support the natural curve of the spine, providing support in the lower back. It should also be high enough to support the shoulders and neck. The seat should provide ample cushioning for the hips and buttocks, with a seat depth of 2 to 4 inches from the back to the back of one's knees.
The ergonomic features may be the most important aspect, but it is certainly not the only one. Consider whether you want a stationary or mobile chair. If employees work in close quarters they might prefer to "roll over" to other people's desks. A full motion chair will allow users to turn the chair itself without rolling the chair. Stationary chairs are heavier, and sometimes they are often more expensive.
Think about the material and style for the chairs. Leather is a popular option because it's not only comfy, it's durable. With all the sitting, you do not want an upholstery that is going to tear easily. It's also easy to clean. Fabrics and mesh chairs can catch a lot of crumbs and dirt. (Most people end up eating lunch at their desks and this could quickly prove to be a messy choice.) Chairs intended for an employee's private office and those higher up on the pay scale might want to choose a more luxurious executive chair.
Lastly, factor in price. Many online retailers offer discounts when you purchase in bulk. While it's good to stay within budget, do not skimp on quality and comfort for your employees.
