Creating an ergonomic work zone on your desk can help boost your productivity and wellbeing. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the benefits of an ergonomically designed workspace, with top tips to create one for yourself.
With some simple changes to the arrangement of your equipment, you can make your desk more organised and comfortable without compromising your health. Don’t get bogged down by cluttered mess – keep reading and discover the secret to productive and stress-free working!
What is an ‘ergonomic working zone’?
Ergonomics is all about creating a space that meets your individual needs and reduces fatigue while you work. By organising equipment and tasks correctly, you can create an ergonomic work zone to maximise efficiency, reduce physical strain and prevent workplace-induced injuries.
There are three ergonomic work zones: primary, secondary and tertiary.
1. Primary work zone
Your primary work zone is the area that you come into contact with most often and requires the greatest attention to ergonomics. Your primary workspace should be organised in a way that will make it easy and comfortable for you to get your work done.
Your primary working zone should be a 30-40cm area around your neutral sitting position. This is the space that you can comfortably reach when sitting back in your chair, with your elbows relaxed. Place your most frequently used items in this zone to make them immediately accessible. This ensures maximum productivity without any strain.
Examples of items in the primary work zone:
- Keyboard
- Mouse
- Notepad and pen if you write notes frequently
2. Secondary work zone
Your secondary work zone should include items that are used on a regular basis, but don’t need to be immediately accessible.
To create a secondary work zone, you should position yourself so that your back remains in contact with your chair and your arms are extended outwards. This zone is considered to be anything between 40 cm to 60 cm away from you. Keep less frequently used items within this area, as they may not be easily reachable.
Examples of items in the secondary work zone:
- Telephone
- Water bottle
- Reference materials
3. Tertiary work zone
A tertiary work zone for desk workers is the furthest zone from the desk, typically located 60 cm away from the user. This zone should contain items which are used less frequently, such as lighting or organisers. You should not need to access these items often, as frequent reaching and leaning across the desk can lead to discomfort. By keeping this area organised, it will be easier to access these items when needed.
Examples of items in the tertiary work zone:
- Light
- Plant
- Personal items
- Rarely used stationery items
Together, these three ergonomic work zones create an environment that boosts productivity while minimising physical strain. Start organising your workspace today!
