Morning all
does anyone have any tips for the development of a business case to buy replacement office chairs?
I've undertaken an assessment on three people who complained of back/neck/leg problems and the common denominator was the chair. Around four years ago the employer set up a new office and bought a job lot of office chairs that were to quote them "middle of the price range and BS compliant", however they go up and down, the back goes up and drops down on its own (it doesn't stay there) there is no lumbar support, the top section of the back rest sweeps outwards so does not support the upper back and the padding is so thin you can feel the frame. Also the seat pad doesn't adjust in depth etc etc, you get the idea? The purse holder is adamant that chairs will not be replaced as they wanted a "corporate" style. As far as I am aware they did not consult on the choices when the changes were taking place. I've tried to get stats on the number of days lost due to MSDS in clerical staff but think that will be blocked and I know there are a number of complaints and grumblings brewing about being uncomfortable etc. A staff member has already had sick time due to the chair not helping their posture.
So................ I need a really convincing argument to replace those that are not suitable for at least the three people I've assessed (initially). In the past they've discouraged DSE assessments as "it'll open the flood gates". Added to this I know of and can see at least 10 people who have different chairs they brought with them from the old premises so feel a precedent has been set.
Anyone got any advice on a convincing argument?
Many thanks

Completely agree with damelcfc.

We have around 500 staff and moved to new offices 3 years ago. We bought "a" chair which generally works well for the majority of staff.

However, the same chair wont fit 500 bums!

So, we rolled out our online DSE assessment and then do 1-1 dse assessments with individuals who have a particular problem. If we, as assessors cannot get the right workstation set up then we have an external ergonomist (who works for a supplier of office furniture) to do a full assessment which usually results in a chair "fitted" to the individual.

Given all of that the number is relatively small in proportion to headcount.