Remote Work:  Tips for a comfortable workspace

Colleagues,

Whether you or a family member are working from home or in the office, a comfortable workspace can help you feel your best. If you are working from home, it’s important to remember the ergonomic principles to improve the “fit” between you and your workspace.

A practical approach considers the match between you, the equipment you use, your work processes and the work environment. The key is to adapt your work area to your personal size and shape as much as possible.  A person’s capabilities, physical attributes and work habits must be recognized to improve ergonomic factors in the workplace, whether at work or working remotely.

Please keep these tips in mind as you set up or modify your home workspace:

Make sure your workstation fits you. Assess your home office space to ensure that your workspace meets your needs – especially when new furniture, equipment or tasks are introduced.

• Adjust seating so your arms can line up as straight as possible with your keyboard
• Put something under your feet for support if they don’t touch the ground while sitting
• Try to keep your eyes 20-24” from your computer screen, and adjust font size if needed to reduce eye strain

Find adequate lighting. Ideally, your space should have both natural and artificial light sources. Make sure lighting is not shining directly on you or your computer screen.

Minimize distractions. While working, set boundaries between your living and working spaces 

Improve your circulation. Set reminders to step away from your workspace to stretch, take a short walk.

Minimize storage and clutter. Clutter around your work area is not just a distraction, but a trip and fall hazard too. 

Get a full night of sleep. A good night’s rest has been linked to improved productivity and concentration and improved immune function.

Stay hydrated. Drinking water helps maintain brain function, and walking to the kitchen is a great way to keep your body moving.

I hope these tips help you make the best of your home workspace if you are working remotely.

Be well,

Scott Lanphear