Purchasing an office chair is an investment in your employees. Oftentimes business owners don’t put significant thought into what type of chairs their staff will be sitting in throughout the workday. However, since most office employees are seated for eight hours every day, purchasing suitable chairs is crucial for productivity.
Height Adjustments
The backs of your office chairs should have a range of vertical settings, so that your employees can adjust the seat to fit properly according to each of their heights. To adjust these settings properly, your employees should be seated in the chair with their thighs parallel to the floor.
Backrest Adjustments
Not only should your seat backs have vertical adjustments, they should also move forward and back, as well as have the ability to be angled. These settings may change throughout the day according to each employee’s current task. Whether you choose an office chair with an attached or detached backrest, these types of settings should be available.
Lumbar Support Settings
The contours of your office chairs should be shaped to fit the natural curvature of your back for ample support. Lumbar settings should be adjusted in a way so that it arches with your spine to provide adequate comfort. The right chairs will prevent slumping as the day progresses and minimize strain on the lumbar discs.
Seat Width and Depth
The space of the seat should be wide and deep enough for your employees to be seated comfortably. The depth of your chair will differ according to height. Choose a deeper chair for taller employees, and a shallower option for shorter employees. To know if a chair is deep enough, you should sit back against the backrest and still have about two to four inches of space between the back of your knees and the seat.
Material and Padding
Breathable material is best for employees who will be sitting in their chairs throughout most of the day. Lighter fabrics are suitable, and many new materials are available in a lighter option as well. The chair should not be overstuffed, nor should it be too hard. Padding should be comfortable to sit in and supportive, not strenuous.
Armrests
Most quality office chairs will also offer adjustments for the armrests. These settings are available to relieve some of the strain on your back, neck and shoulders. Position the armrests in a way so that your arms sit comfortably on top while you are sitting upright. This will dissuade slouching and uncomfortable sitting positions.
Adjustment Controls
To make sure an office chair is right for you, sit in the chair and make the adjustments from a comfortable seated position. You should be able to reach all of the settings while sitting in the chair without having to strain yourself. Adjust the height, tilt and depth while seated, and make sure your swivel has a full range of motion.
Most people can be sure if an office chair is right for them after about a week of use. Furniture by George allows our customers to try before you buy! Test drive an office chair for one week to make sure it has adequate adjustments and support for your needs. Visit us online at www.FurniturebyGeorge.com or call (727) 561-0325.