Ergonomics in the Home
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Ergonomic furniture plays a huge role in office fit outs in today’s work environment.  With thousands of dollars being paid in workers compensation suits that resulted from poorly made chairs and desks, businesses are now embracing ergonomic models. But what about our homes? Considering the amount of time spend sitting in front of PC’s, TV’s and other electronic equipment at home, it is just as important that we look for ergonomic furniture that will not contribute to poor sitting habits.
Here are some helpful tips for creating an ergonomic living environment.
- When looking for the right furniture ensure you sit on chairs and sofas the way you would at home before you purchase them. Make sure that your feet can touch the floor when sitting in your typical position. Lie on a sofa if that is how you use it.
- Look for lumbar support in your seating. A second lower cushion or a stiff bowed out back on a seat can provide good support while you sit in your living room. At minimum buy one good ergonomic chair for yourself and your family members.
- Check the reach to side tables with the sofa and chairs you are buying. Move them around in store if they are not near your seating. You want to easily reach your drink or the remote while sitting. Some end tables are too short for the sofa arms, making you bend your back out of shape. This position will prove unhealthy over a long period of time.
- Purchase matching ottomans if you do not have an ergonomic recliner in which to sit. A footstool or ottoman will help to take pressure off the backs of your legs, one of the first places to feel the effects of poorly fitting furniture.
- It is a great idea to take the whole family with you to shop. If that isn’t possible then at least consider the various sizes of your family members when you choose your living room furniture. Sofas with built-in recliners can be a good way to accommodate different heights and sizes.
- When positioning TV/PC screens ensure they are at the right height for eye focus so there is no strain. TV’s should be wall mounted or standing in a position that is comfortable for all people to watch so you head and neck do not feel strain. You can also optin for TV lifts to adjust height at the position you want to.
