Installing the wrong furniture in the workplace can be a real pain the neck, or even the back and the shoulders.

When picking out furniture, adjustable desks and chairs are ideal as they accommodate a range of users.

Consideration should also be given to the person performing the task and the requirements of people with special need.

In some cases, this might involve purchasing or customising special equipment, usually as a result of an ergonomic review.

A common complaint we’re seeing from local government employees is that built in furniture isn’t designed with the user in mind (and in many cases does not meet the AS/NZS 4442:2018 ergonomic standards).  

"It's not about cost," Injury prevention consultant Dane Casserly said. 

"Compliance is the key." 

Ergonomic furniture can minimise the risk of suffering musculoskeletal disorders and costly worker’s compensations payouts as it allows workers to sit or stand in the most comfortable position for them. Adjustability is key.

Libraries, aquatic centres and reception desks are the worst offenders when it comes to awkward bench heights, bad fit outs and unsuitable furniture, according the LGIS’ injury prevention consultants.

Five of the most common issues we’re seeing within these areas include: 

• Built in desks are too high and can’t be adjusted
• Desk width is too short 
• Computer workstations have no under-desk space for legs
• A lack of keyboard support
• Employees are sitting on inadequate stools

The aforementioned problems can cause back, shoulder and neck pain. 

To prevent these pains in the neck becoming expensive injury claims, it’s important to incorporate ergonomics into the mix during building fit outs.

The thickness of the desk can be an issue. This should be no more than 35mm. 

The height of book return areas within libraries needs to be lower in many cases as they are inaccessible to children/wheelchair users.

When building workstations a lack of consultation with staff is common.

Consulting employees about how they move through tasks during the workday can solve a myriad of ergonomic problems later.

For an ergonomic assessment within your facilities, contact Injury Prevention consultants Dane Casserly and James Larkin.