10 May 2022

# If you are working from home but your home office is still a makeshift space in your house, you are probably working under less-than-ideal ergonomic conditions. A table that’s too high or a kitchen chair that’s too low can cause a lot of body pain and health issues. Office design expert Georgia Hartmann explains that ergonomics refers to how efficient you are in your working environment. She says the first step is to ensure your feet rest flat on the floor when sitting down. A good chair will support your lower back, but you can use a rolled-up towel for added support:

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She says your desk or table should be at elbow level, so when resting your arms on the surface your elbows are at a slightly less than a 90-degree angle.

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Hartmann says you should position your monitor at least an arm’s length away so you can view the entire screen at once without having to move your head. To minimise glare you must avoid facing the window or having it behind you as this can cause eye fatigue and dryness. She says when people work from home they tend to take fewer breaks:

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She says a safe and efficient workspace makes a big difference:

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