Seating at work: ergonomic selection and adjustment

Health and Safety Executive Figure 10 VDU workstation Figure 11 An example of a good checkout chair Checkout work 53 This type of workstation can vary in design. Common problems include limited space for movement and the user having to deal with a variety of tasks. Choosing a fairly compact seating design with easily accessible adjustment controls for the seat and backrest can be a solution (see figure 11). Certain design features are important for checkout work: n upholstery needs to be comfortable, durable and easy to clean; n the seat should swivel, adjust in height, be well-padded, and preferably be forward-tilting; n the backrest should be adjustable in height, depth and tilt; n an adjustable footrest will be necessary as the chair is likely to be used by a variety of people. 54 The working area needs to be designed so that all frequent tasks are kept within easy reach (approximately 400 mm of the worker), and to allow the worker to sit close to the task without having anything pressing on the legs. Chairs should allow the worker to reach everything without strain and without having to perch on the edge of the seat. If foldaway chairs are used it is important to ensure that they are tightly secured, flexible and adjustable. Seating at work Page 17 of 22