How to create an ergonomic desk layout

Many of us will spend a few decades in a desk job, so ensuring we have an ergonomic workspace is essential. Poor posture and an uncomfortable desk setup can lead to health issues such as chronic neck and shoulder pain. The rise of homeworking and 'digital nomads' working from laptops means that many of us are not working in a way that is not good for our backs. We can prevent health issues from arising by using ergonomic, correctly positioned equipment. A good desk setup also improves focus and productivity by helping you maintain a good posture. Read on to find out how to create a healthy workspace.

Choosing the right monitor arm

Placing your monitor at eye level reduces strain on your neck and prevents you from hunching over, promoting better posture. The best way to do this is with a monitor arm. A quality monitor arm should be easily adjusted to position your screen to the perfect eye level.

Why fine adjustment is important

A monitor arm with fine adjustment will allow you to view different display content types better. You might need to adjust your monitor differently to view a spreadsheet than a video, for example. If you're using a standing desk you can reposition your monitor between sitting and standing. Good adjustment is also needed when users share desks, for example, in a control room or hotdesking situation.

How to choose a monitor arm for maximum ergonomics and productivity — Zpx monitor mounting system with integral cable management and design co-ordinated decals

Flexibility and Movement

Modern monitor arms offer a wide range of motion, allowing you to swivel, tilt, and rotate your screen. This adaptability lets you switch between tasks and collaborate with colleagues during discussions.

Reduced Eye Fatigue

Positioning your monitor at the correct height and distance minimises eye strain. With a monitor arm, you can easily adjust the screen to prevent glare and ensure proper lighting. Being able to easily adjust the screen reduces the risk of eye fatigue and discomfort.

Zgo monitor arm with colour co-ordinated decals

Clutter-free desks to maximise space

A clutter-free desk is essential for comfortable working. A tidy, organised desk helps reduce visual distractions and enables you to locate items quickly. Plenty of gadgets help keep your desk clutter-free, such as phone charging beds and pen trays. Arranging your desk in a way that puts frequently used items in easy reach enables you to keep a comfortable posture.

Monitor arms free up valuable desk space by eliminating the need for bulky monitor stands. You can organise your workspace more efficiently and keep essential items within arm's reach. Routing cables through your monitor arm helps keep them from cluttering your desk. Some monitor arms allow you to integrate a docking station, which further helps declutter the desk.

In a hybrid workplace, a universal docking station allows you to use the same laptop at home and in the office. It makes connecting and disconnecting your computer easier. Rather than having multiple cables clutter your desk, you can place your laptop on the docking station, converting it into a desktop. The monitor cables feed into the rear of the laptop docking station, creating a tidier desk surface with more space to work.

Laptop working

Now that we can work remotely, laptop working is more popular than ever. Cafes are full of laptop workers, and digital nomads work remotely from their laptops worldwide.

Many of us spend hours on our laptops, so using them safely is essential. Spending all day hunched over a computer puts you at risk of serious back issues such as sciatica or a herniated disc. Save yourself a trip to the physio by investing in the right equipment.

A laptop stand brings your screen to eye level for more comfortable viewing. It enables a healthy working posture and reduces neck, shoulder, and back strain. This more ergonomic way of working benefits your health and productivity.

A laptop stand also gives you more desk space and reduces clutter. You'll have room to use a separate keyboard and mouse. These reduce the strain on your hands and wrists, allowing you to work more comfortably.

How to maintain a healthy posture

Here are some tips on keeping good posture while you're working:

Position your monitor at arm's length away with the top of the screen at eye level; your sightline should be just below the top of the monitor.
Adjust your chair height so your feet are flat on the floor, and your thighs are parallel to the floor.
Keep good posture by sitting straight and leaning your back against the back of your chair.
Use an adjustable chair to ensure your desk is level with your elbows and your screen is at eye level.
Work at a desk or table with enough space underneath for you to move your chair as close to your desk to prevent leaning forward.
While using your keyboard or mouse, keep your wrists straight and your upper arms close to your body.
Keep your head and neck straight.

With so many of us spending our days sitting at desks, we need to pay attention to ergonomics. If we neglect our posture and comfort, we put ourselves at risk of chronic health issues and reduced productivity. Solutions such as monitor arms and laptop stands promote healthier working. Clever equipment use can create spaces that foster well-being, productivity, and a good balance between work and health.

Are you looking to create a healthier office? At Td, we stock a range of options to fit your needs Take a look at our products here

Susan Todd27 September 2023docking station, working from home, hybrid working, universal docking station, USB-C docking station, home office, Laptop docking station, monitor arm, monitor arms, monitor mounting sytem, large monitor mounting, multiple monitor mounting, six monitors one pole, heavy monitor mounting, smartarm, zgo monitor arms, zpx monitor arm, zg monitor arms