Rank: Forum user
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We are embarking on a refurbuishment of our office space which will lead to the introduction of 12 "breakout rooms" on each floor. The plan is to have a computer workstation within these rooms for people to use should they have the need. We anticipate the usage of the rooms to be ad-hoc, with people generally spending no more than a two hour session in there.
My question is, to what extent do we have to go regarding the ergonomic setup. We will not be introducing height adjustable desking as this would be impossible to manage, so does this mean we should provide a suitable task chair for these rooms, i.e. minimum of adjustable seat height, backrest, castors and swivel?
I am of the opinion that this should be what we provide, where others are suggesting that a visitors style chair will suffice.
Thoughts please?
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Rank: Guest
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Stephen
While you write 'My question is, to what extent do we have to go regarding the ergonomic setup, you then curiously focus on simply a very small aspect of ergonomics.
An adequate answer to your question requires reliable data on the range of tasks to be undertaken in the 'breakout' space, relevant body dimensions of a good sample of the users, their ages and details of any physical impairments which is apt to contribute to musculoskeletal or eye fatigue or other sources of stress.
Any bona fide 'ergonomic' response would design a solution based on this data and includes relevant training and guidance for all employees involved, their line managers and senior management. Its scope should be far more than tabales and chairs (or possible sit/stand options for working) and should have regard for lighting, ventilation, heating and possible sources of stress.
I regret if this is contrary to your notion of ergonomics; unfortunately, too many safety texts dwell on a version of ergonomics that is simply over 30 years out of date.
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Rank: Super forum user
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Hi Stephen - I worked with a company that used these break out room ideas.
It was really sofas and arm chairs in a room or in a corner of the corridor and was for informal chats, brain storming sessions etc.
It worked for coming up with ideas, team building etc as it was informal.
The formal meetings and big decisions followed the usual format - meeting chair, minutes, dial ins etc.
As for the ergonomics, I found some of the sofas etc unconfortable after a short time and was happy to stand or sit on a stool. Anyone having to source info from the computer had the standard adjustable DSE version, but was encouraged to have the info to hand before we sat down.
So - encourage the break out rooms but manage the situation.
I would not allow the computer station to be in these rooms. Encourage them to enjoy the break from their own work stations and see that they are productive.
Hope this helps.
David
david
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