CHOOSING THE RIGHT WORKSTATION

CHOOSING THE RIGHT WORKSTATION

What does workstation mean?

A workstation is an area where an individual performs daily work-related tasks, for example in an office setting this might include a desk, writing area, computer and storage area for documents. The workstation should provide the user with space to carry out their typical work duties by allowing the person to use an organized area in order to increase the efficiency of their job tasks.

Since the invention of the desk and filing cabinet, office design was focused on only one thing: space. More specifically, filling that space with as many desks as possible. There was no other motivation but making the most out of the available space, to get the max number of workers in there. Fortunately, times and attitudes have changed. Companies are starting to realize that their employees are the number one asset in the company and are trying to make the time spent in the office as pleasant as possible. As the office evolves from a beige, efficient torture chamber to a comfortable, colorful bay of productivity, different types of office workstations are coming to the forefront. Workers and fostering creativity and productivity are the focus now.

Different Types of Office Workstations

  1. “L” Station

Just like the name suggests, the “L” station is basically L-shaped desk that can be placed in corners where they take up no more space than necessary. Two corners can be placed side by side, four can be placed with their corners meeting in the middle and three can be positioned in architectural features like pillars, therefore turning that obstruction into usable space.      

  1. Side-by-side Workstation

Are also known as linear, straight or row-type workstations. As the name would suggests, these workstations consist of multiple desks that run side-by-side with another. This type of workstation is ideal should for longer spaces. You need to make sure you choose desk runs that allow enough space for each individual to avoid that cramped feeling effect. Side-by-side workstations can come with built-in adjustable partitions that make them suitable for privacy or collaboration depending on the needs of the team.

  1.  Back-to-back WorkStation

This type of workstation is fast becoming the most popular type of office workstation in the modern office. They come in a variety of arrangements. The most basic has one desk separated from another by means of a partition and is referred to as 2-way workstation. However, there are also 4-way and 6-way workstations available. There are different spans too, so you can choose which best works for your space and how many people you want to fit in there.

  1. Sit-Stand Electric Height Adjustable Office Workstation

Nowadays, ergonomics is the word on the mind of many companies and business owners. The risk of sitting at the desk all day has become more widely known. A sit-stand desk that is adjustable can improve posture, circulation, mood and energy levels. Solo sit-stand workstations tend to take more room than the average so they may be best suited in closed office environments.

Conclusion

Hopefully, the points above have helped you better consider the space available of the office, as well as its layout, showing how different workstations work better in different circumstances. Making the best use of your office is about being efficient with the space first and foremost. The more people you can fit ergonomically and comfortably in a space, ensuring it meets their daily working needs, the better. Browse our products or get in touch if you have any questions or concerns.

headrest orthopedic chair

6 Features to look out for in a good Orthopaedic chair

1. The Adjustable Headrest

Supports the back of the head and the upper neck, reducing tension in the shoulders and upper torso. To accommodate various users the height and angle of the headrest should also be adjustable

2. The Adjustable Arms

Armrests help to reduce tension in the upper body and allow the shoulders to relax.The arms of an orthopaedic chair should be adjustable in 3 dimensions to allow the user to place their forearms in the most comfortable position. Soft padding on the arms is also necessary for added comfort.

3. The Adjustable Lumbar Support

Support to the lower back is an essential part of what makes an orthopaedic chair. It prevents slumping and reduces stress to the spine and hips. An adjustable backrest should allow the user to align the curve of the chair with spine.

4. The Materials

A good ergonomic chair uses the best mesh and fabrics. Due the climate in East Africa, it is essential the material allows the users back to breathe instead of sweat, choosing a mesh chair really enhances comfort for the user. Seat padding should be moderate not too hard that it causes pain and not to soft that it’s not firm to support the user.

5. The Adjustable Seat Depth

Good orthopaedic chairs come with a seat sliding depth adjustment mechanism to allow the user to align their body to allow the back and upper leg to be at 90° which is gives the optimum comfort level. Whether you are tall or short you can always adjust the depth to your most comfortable position. 

6. The Adjustable Seat Height

The optimum seat height is whereby the user is able to place both his/her feet flat on the ground while seated. The back, upper leg and lower leg should all be at 90°. Therefore a good orthopaedic chair should have an adjustable seat height that the user can either lower or increase the height to their desired position.

Stay safe and work from home!

YOUR HOME SETUP

There are key things to bear in mind while working when organizing your workspace.

-Be conscious about your seating. Your back will never forgive you for using a dining chair! Good chairs should support your back while allowing you to adjust your seat height.


-The work surface of your desk should be stable and not wobbly. A good desk should be designed in such a way to allow for mobility. Lastly if your budget allows, look into good quality height adjustable desks to allow better posture especially at home.


-Minimize clutter by having cabinets to put away unnecessary items on your desk, as studies have shown most people find clutter to be distracting hence a negative impact on productivity.

TIPS TO EFFECTIVELY WORK FROM HOME

-Get up! Dress up! Show up! – have a regular sleeping routine that ensures you wake up energized and motivated. Also, wear something different to what you slept in and avoid working in your bedroom, this creates a mental shift from ‘rest time’ to ‘work time’. You can even wear your work attire!


-Have predefined work hours to help your family get used to the hours when you’re available to spend time with them and when you’re not. If you’re having trouble focusing on tasks online without getting sidetracked, you may consider downloading apps or browser plugins that may help minimize that.


-Beat procrastination! Clearly map out your day to help to get tasks done and preventing being sidetracked.

YOUR HEALTH

-Sleep is directly proportional to productivity. Sleeping better at night can help you feel more energized during the day and can help you accomplish tasks more effectively.


-Fitness – short of there being a lockdown at time of writing this, it’s essential to get out in nature and go for a run or walk whilst practicing social distancing. A daily dose of Vitamin D will do your immunity good. You can also stay active in your home by doing home exercises.


-Nutrition – In order to keep your system in check, it’s important to have a well-balanced diet and there are plenty of resources to help you out. Key tip is to plan your meals in advance, perhapswhen planning your work commitments.

Quick tips on working from home

Always ensure that your work area has enough lighting. In addition to that, try to find an area of your house that has minimum distractions. Keep a routine and most importantly, get some sun.

How to be more productive working from home

Being productive is a function of will power, however there is a lot you can do. For example, ensure your diet is healthy, try to exercise and cut back on smart phone time