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Chair Topics |
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Chair Topics |
The Seat Back supports your upper and lower back. The seat back height should be adjusted to support the lumbar region of the lower back. The seat back angle should be adjusted to comfortably support the upper back. Generally, you should sit back in your chair and tilt between 100 and 120 degrees backward.
To adjust, look for knobs or other adjustment devices on the back and/or under the chair, as shown in the picture. By loosening the knobs, then moving the seat back, you should find a height and angle that are comfortable for you.
Your chair may or may not have armrests. Chairs without armrests are acceptable to use for VDT work. However, armrests are useful for resting your forearms. This can help prevent and/or reduce muscular tension in the neck and shoulders. Armrests also provide support when you get in or out of the chair.
Chairs equipped with armrests may be adjustable. Look for knobs on the side of the armrest (as in the picture) or under the chair. By loosening these connections, you can adjust the height, width and angle of the arm rest.
The Seat Stand supports and evenly distributes your weight in the chair. The pivot point at the top of the base provides tilting and swivelling of the seat back and seat pan. Try to recline back in the chair slightly while working with your VDT.
It is important that the seat stand be stable, preferably with 5 legs on caster type wheels. This helps you move freely for proper positioning at your VDT.
The chair tilt and swivel tension are often adjustable. Look for a knob connected to a spring under the chair. By turning the knob, you can increase the tension of the spring to provide "stiffer" tilting. Turning the knob counter- clockwise loosens the tension. You should adjust the chair for the most comfortable "stiffness" when tilting back.
The Seat Pan should be firmly cushioned and have a lip on the edge. This allows you to sit comfortably and distributes the weight of your legs, thighs and buttocks evenly.
You can vary the height of the chair by changing the height of the seat pan. The height should be adjusted so your thighs are parallel to the floor and your feet rest flat and firmly on the floor.
To adjust the chair height, look for a lever (as in the picture) that allows you to adjust the height while seated. Simply raise the lever to increase or decrease the chair height. If you do not find a lever, you may have to turn the chair upside-down to adjust the height. Spin the base clockwise to lower the height or counterclockwise to raise the height. If neither of these methods works, consult the manufacturer's instructions that came with your chair.
