An ergonomic workspace is more than just having an ergonomic chair or desk—it’s about setting up your desk equipment in an ergonomic way. By dividing your workspace into three ergonomic work zones, you can create a more organized, efficient, and posture-friendly environment.
By organizing your desk based on these zones, you can make working smoother, reduce unnecessary movement, and improve your overall comfort.
Why you should consider using ergonomic work zones:
- Improved Posture: Arranging your workspace with ergonomic zones reduces unnecessary reaching and awkward positions, helping you maintain better posture throughout the day.
- Increased Efficiency: Keeping frequently used items in close reach (Zone One) minimizes movement, allowing you to work more efficiently and stay focused.
- Reduced Strain: Organizing your desk setup reduces physical strain on your neck, shoulders, and arms, lowering the risk of repetitive strain injuries (RSIs).
- Enhanced Organization: A clear and intentional layout helps keep your workspace tidy and ensures everything you need is exactly where it should be.
- Personalized Comfort: Ergonomic zones adapt to your workflow, making it easier to tailor your setup to your specific needs and habits.
- Boosted Productivity: A well-organized, comfortable workspace leads to fewer distractions and a smoother workflow, ultimately increasing your productivity.
Incorporating ergonomic work zones isn’t just about comfort—it’s about creating a workspace that works for you!
Check out our YouTube video below where Jo, our expert workstation assessor, demonstrates how to set up your desk using the work zones.
Zone 1
When working in Zone One, your shoulders should remain relaxed, and your elbows should stay close to your sides. To determine the boundaries of Zone One on your desk, you can use the “sweep method.” Simply sweep your hands across the desk while keeping your elbows tucked in. The area your hands naturally reach without extending your arms defines Zone One.
This is the space for items you use most frequently—things you should be able to access effortlessly.
What items do you use most often on your desk?
The items you should have closest to you are:
Zone 2
The second zone should be an arm’s length away.
The second working zone should include items that you still use throughout the day but not as often.
Here are some examples of what to include in the secondary zone:
- Headphones/headset
- Drink
- Paperwork
- Telephone
Zone 3
Zone Three is the area that requires you to lean forward or stretch to reach items. To minimize strain, it’s best to avoid frequent reaching into this zone. Instead, consider standing up to access these items or moving them closer to reduce unnecessary movement.
This might include:
- Document folders
- Rarely used stationary
- Picture frame or plant
Now that you’ve learned how to set up your workspace ergonomically, it’s time to focus on your monitor. Proper monitor positioning is just as crucial as arranging your desk and chair correctly. Is your screen at the right height and angle to suit your needs? Ensuring your monitor is adjusted properly can help reduce neck strain, improve posture, and enhance your overall comfort while working. If you’re unsure, we have a YouTube video that will help. Jo explains how to adjust your monitor screen to suit you.
If you would like any advice on how to set up your workstation please contact us. We are more than happy to help.
