We’re on to week three of our ergonomic myths blog series in honor of National Ergonomics Month. It’s time to demystify another myth that may be hindering your path to a new sit-stand workstyle.
MYTH: Standing desks are all the same.
Here’s where we stand:
Today’s technology allows us to choose whether we sit or stand when using a computer or device. Science supports this functionality, with research showing that sticking with one posture or the other is unhealthy. The ability to choose your posture, based on how you feel and the task at hand, is a crucial factor in job satisfaction, and by extension, performance. So the question is not whether to use a sit-stand workstation, but which sit-stand option should you use?
Standing workstations are not all the same. Over the last five years, dozens of alternatives have flooded the market. The designs fall into a handful of categories, and yes, many are beginning to look alike. As consumers, it helps to be a savvy about the differences to avoid the pitfalls of a knock-off standing solution, that may not adhere to the stricter definitions of safety and standards of quality.
How do you distinguish between a lasting, effective sit-stand solution and a less desirable knock-off? The best sit-stand workstations offer a full range of motion to address the broadest range of users. This is especially important in shared workstations across multiple shifts.
Products like Ergotron’s WorkFit-S Sit-Stand Workstation that offer 20” of height adjustment with an additional 5” in monitor adjustment accommodate this range, while add-on accessories can be added for very tall users’ needs. Other workstations may actually discourage movement because they are too hard to adjust or adjust too slowly. When users don’t have a positive experience, they don’t reap the benefits promised by the sit-stand aspect of the product.
An easily adjustable workstation allows you to change positions on the fly as your workload or body requires. We advocate for the Sit-Stand Switch™ – changing postures every 30 minutes.
The best standing solutions are also stable. Unstable solutions have the potential to tip over and hurt you or damage your technology.
Buyers should select an option that has a weight adjustable counterbalance with wide weight range to cover a range of displays. Ergonomic handles, clean cable management, clearly defined testing criteria and a warranty are also important features to look for. Learn more how to choose a station that support you or your company’s needs in Designing an Ergonomic Sit-Stand Desk Converter.
I look forward to sharing our final ergonomic myth with you next week!
