Working at a desk that isn’t appropriate for your height or suited to your preferences can present a number of challenges.
- A desk that’s too low can cause you to stoop while working. It can also mean leg space is cramped, which will be uncomfortable for long periods of time, and may make it difficult to move around in your chair (for example, if the arm rests of your chair are the same height as your desk, you’ll be unable to swivel or pull your chair in close to your desk)
- A desk that’s too high or wide can mean you having to abduct your arms to reach your work
- A curved desk may create an asymmetrical posture if your computer is parallel to you
- A small desk may not leave you with enough space to work comfortably, especially if you need to use a computer and complete paperwork or use tools at the same desk
Solutions
When it comes to perfecting your workspace set-up, there are a few things you can do to make sure your desk is right for you.
Desk height
When setting your desk to the right height for you, the general rule of thumb is:
- When sitting comfortably at your desk, the flat of your hands should be level with your work and your elbows should be held at a 90-degree angle.
If you find that your desk is too low, installing desk raisers may be an option. However, it’s important to select the right type for the design of your desk (i.e. a desk with adjustable, cantilever legs will require different raisers to a desk with traditional, fixed legs).
Another option can be to adjust the height of your chair and raise yourself to working height. However, it’s important to make sure that in doing so you don’t then adopt an awkward or uncomfortable working posture.
When sitting at your desk, your back should be straight and well supported by your chair, and your feet should be flat on the floor. If this position is impossible due to the height of your workstation, consider introducing a footrest which will allow you to keep the correct position.
Built-in features
Some desks are designed with a built-in bar for foot support. Where this is the case, be sure to double-check that the foot support doesn’t obstruct or restrict your movement and will allow you to sit comfortably whilst maintaining good posture. If you feel the built-in support may be more of a hindrance, it may be necessary to consider other desks.
Other built-in features, like drawers, storage cupboards, or keyboard shelves, can also present a similar challenge. Where there are built-in features that may make it difficult to maintain good working posture or to work comfortably, see if there is an option to have these removed. If not, you may need to look at a different type of desk.
Positioning
When selecting and setting up your desk, it’s important to consider which hand is your dominant hand, as this will help you get your positioning right.
Positioning is especially important when using a curved or corner desk. When working at a curved desk, you should try to make your torso parallel to the flattest part of the curve, with the curved edges surrounding you evenly on both sides. This will help you to maintain good alignment whilst preventing you from having to overstretch to reach areas of your workstation.
When working at a corner desk, be sure to position yourself so that your body is facing into the corner where the two sides of the desk meet. This will again ensure you’re able to reach all areas of your workstation with minimal stretching or movement.
If you’re finding it challenging to maintain good posture and work comfortably at your curved or corner desk, speak to your employer about switching to an oblong desk instead.
