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Ergonomics puts human anatomy and behaviour at the heart of design. The field of ergonomics typically involves designing devices around the physical capabilities and comfort of the user. Ergonomic products are designed to minimize physical effort and discomfort and maximize efficiency.
In a 2021 survey carried out by Censuswide*, commissioned by Fellowes, 83% of respondents thought having a good ergonomic environment e.g., having the right desk, chair, monitor at eye level etc was important to their productivity. This is particularly significant for employers to consider, as 8 in 10 respondents think it is important that an employer invests in the ergonomic solutions they need to be productive at the office.
Fellowes introduced the 4 Zone Approach™ to help address the common issues relating to comfort and workspace design. This easy-to-follow guide is based on EN ISO 9241-5 and EU Directive 290/70, and breaks down the main aspects of the workstation into manageable sections, providing advice and tips on how each zone can be established ergonomically to create a healthier and happier workspace.
Find out more about our Four Zone Approach™ below:
Foot supports are designed to improve ergonomic positioning; supporting resting feet in the correct position keeps muscles relaxed and minimises cramping while improving circulation and blood flow.
1. Adjustable Height Configures the foot support to achieve optimal ergonomic positioning; removing the pressure on the legs and lower back by correctly angling the feet and improving seated posture. 2. Rocking Motion Provides a free-floating platform that encourages subtle movement in the feet for increased blood flow and relaxation over long periods. 3. Massage Surface Designed to relieve stress and rejuvenate tired feet. 4. Non-Slip Surface supports the user’s feet, removing further pressure from the legs. 5. Foot Adjustable Foot rests can be adjusted by foot movement rather than leaning down to adjust, avoiding further stress on the back.
Back supports are designed to help eliminate aches and improve back posture by ensuring the spine is correctly aligned when in a seated position.
1. Support Types Back supports are available as either Full Back or Lumbar variants. The type selected will depend on the body type of the user and the chair they are using. 2. Attachment Types Back supports come with an elasticated or adjustable strap that allows users to set the tension and fit the support to most chairs. 3. Material Type The fabric is typically foam, which moulds to the shape of the user for further support, or mesh, which promotes airflow and may be preferred in warmer working environments.
Wrist supports can help ensure your wrists stay in a neutral posture between typing and using a mouse, by resting the palm of your hand on them.
1. Material Type Avoid hard contact with the desk with a wrist support. Available in Fabric for a softer rest, or Gel for a firmer support while being easier to clean. 2. Non-Skid Ensures that the support/pad does not slip on the work surface. 3. Health-V™ Options Some supports will have the option of Health-V™ Channel that has been designed to help combat the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome by reducing the likelihood of pressure on the median nerve.
Monitor Arms free up valuable desk space and enable you to effortlessly move your screen to the correct ergonomic height. Ideal for screen sharing or where one desk is used by multiple users.
1. Type Available as Pole or Gas Spring. Pole arms provide height adjustment and an arm that pivots, whereas Gas Spring can provide full motion movement. 2. Maximum Height Arms have a maximum height they can be raised to, ensuring the monitor is ergonomically positioned. 3. VESA Fitting Also known as the Mounting Interface Standard (MIS, VESA is a universal standard for mounting flat panel and other visual display equipment. To avoid fixing issues, both the monitor arm and monitor should be VESA compliant. 4. Maximum Screen Size and Load Capacity A monitor arm can support up to a specific screen size without being detrimental to usability. With dual arms, following this guidance prevents monitors from overlapping. 5. Maximum Reach The extension of the arm should be set at the correct ergonomic depth for the user to ensure comfortable viewing and avoid eye fatigue.
Monitor Supports enable users to position the screen in-line with their eyes, therefore reducing neck, back and shoulder pain while using a computer.
1. Height Adjustable Height adjustable risers allow the user to optimise their viewing position. 2. Maximum Weight All risers will have a maximum weight which they can support. 3. Cable Management To help keep desks tidy and clutter free, specific risers may have built in cable management. 4. Storage Shelf/Tray An additional feature on some models, helping the user organise their desktop accessories or workload.
Laptop Supports elevate the laptop screen to eye level and natural line of sight, therefore reducing neck, back and shoulder pain.
1. Adjustable Angles Allow the support to be ergonomically positioned for optimal viewing, ideally this should be eye level with the top of the screen. 2. Supporting Ledge A feature at the front of some laptop supports that provide additional stability. 3. Foldable Frequent traveller? As more of us work on the go, a foldable support allows for a mobile ergonomic set up. 4. Circulation Some models are designed to ensure there is sufficient air flow to the base of the laptop, preventing overheating.
Document Supports help unnecessary twisting of the neck, reducing the likelihood of long term neck and spinal injury. The user can read and type at a comfortable level.
1. Sheet Capacity The maximum number of sheets that can be secured by the document holder. 2. Line Guides Helps with concentration and being able to work more efficiently by directing the eye to the key information. 3. Angle Adjustment Enables the user to set the angle of the copy holder for their preferred ergonomic positioning.
The Lotus™ range of sit-stand desk converters effortlessly transform your desk into a dynamic workspace, so you can remain active at work.
1. Desk Attachment Type Desk converters can either be freestanding or clamped to the back of a desk. 2. Adjustment Range Vertical adjustment or flexible TriMotion™ (180° rotation at the base, 90° vertical adjustment, 180° worksurface rotation). 3. Cable Management Integrated cable management keeps the workspace tidy and clutter free. 4. Waterfall Design The waterfall desktop design with device channel, creates more space for increased productivity.
Incorporate the Fellowes Four Zone Approach® into your workspace today, to help mitigate health problems and improve employee wellbeing.
Ergonomic accessories
Monitor Arms
Sit-stand solutions
*Censuswide, commissioned by Fellowes, 2021