How to design an ergonomic office?

This week, we are speaking with Cassy Baillargeon, an occupational therapist and the founder of 2C2B Coworking, a network of flexible and collaborative workspaces in Mascouche and Boisbriand. She shares her tips for setting up an ergonomic office at work, in a co-working space, or at home.

What are the best tips for setting up an ergonomic office?

Choosing the equipment for your ergonomic office

In terms of equipment, the first priority for your ergonomic office should be a good chair. Your seat is the number one factor that will save you from working in an uncomfortable posture, which can lead to injuries and musculoskeletal disorders in the long run.

The office chair

Your seat should be as adjustable as possible in terms of height, armrests (which are essential), tilt mechanism, and even seat depth. Your back should be well-supported, especially in the lumbar curve region.

The desk

Your work surface should be hard and about 30 inches deep. Try to maintain an arm's length distance between your eyes and your screen to avoid visual fatigue.

External peripherals

It is essential to have a screen detached from your keyboard, even if you are working on your laptop. An external screen at eye level helps reduce pressure on the neck and is an essential part of your ergonomic office setup.

Choose a flat keyboard that allows you to keep your wrists in a neutral position. The mouse should also be close to the keyboard.

What is the ideal posture for working?

Here are some tips for adopting an ergonomic posture at your desk.

• Make sure your feet are flat on the floor. Adjust your chair or use a footrest if needed.

• Your thighs should be parallel to the floor, with a slight clearance behind the knee.

• Your back should be well-supported, slightly reclined. Keep your shoulders relaxed.

• Keep your arms close to your body, forearms well-supported on the work surface, and elbows at a 90-100 degree angle.

I recommend taking regular breaks to stretch for a few minutes. It can be helpful to vary your posture regularly, for example by working standing up.

How to optimize productivity at work?

In addition to setting up an ergonomic office, it is important to ensure that the external environment is conducive to concentration. Ideal conditions can vary completely from person to person, for example, regarding the sound environment. Some people work well with ambient noise or music, while others rely on noise-cancelling headphones to concentrate better.

Light plays a crucial role. We often think that sunlight is good and we frequently see design photos showing a desk positioned facing a window. From an ergonomic point of view, this office arrangement is to be avoided. Indeed, too direct light can cause visual fatigue and glare. Instead, place your workstation perpendicular to the window or opt for blinds.

The decor of the space can also play a role in motivation. Whether you are at home, in a traditional office, or in a co-working space, feel free to personalize your space. Photos, plants, personal items... A playful mural can stimulate your creativity, while a display in your company's colors can foster team engagement.

Why does co-working rhyme with ergonomic office?

I chose to found 2C2B Coworking because I care about the well-being of employees and entrepreneurs. For me, a shared workspace, with no commitment and complete flexibility, is good not only for finances but also for well-being. In times of pandemic, when everyone is teleworking, it becomes more necessary than ever to break isolation and immerse oneself in a stimulating professional atmosphere.

At 2C2B Coworking, you'll find fully ergonomic workstations in the open area, enclosed offices with sit-stand desks, and high-tech conference rooms. All available for an hour, a day, a month, or a year. Flexibility is one of the big advantages of co-working.

2C2B focuses on creating a true business community. Daily and through networking events, we encourage entrepreneurs to connect with each other. These contacts often lead to collaboration opportunities. We also promote our clients' businesses on our distribution channels.

For me, co-working offers several ways to take care of workers, physically, psychologically, socially, and economically.

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A proud partner of 2C2B Coworking, DÉCOR IMPRIMÉ offers murals, wallpapers, and wall and window decals. Our exclusive products are designed and manufactured in Quebec by independent local artists.

You can find 2C2B on Instagram, Facebook, and their website.

To finalize your ideal office, discover our selection of home office wall decor. Repositionable murals and decals that inspire concentration — made in Canada, installed in minutes.