"Working safely" in times of Corona practically forces us to re-evaluate our office planning. Those who can should return to working from home, and those who are (again) working from home should prepare for a longer-term arrangement. But how do you properly set up a home office? How do you create a good workspace at home?
Checklist for setting up a home office:
If you pay attention to these key points, you can work efficiently, effectively and in a relaxed manner.
1. Setting up a home office
Ideally, you have a separate office where you can retreat undisturbed. To work effectively, efficiently, and in a relaxed manner in the long term, it's worthwhile to carefully examine, measure, and plan your existing space. The dimensions can easily be entered into a planning tool, allowing you to plan which furniture will fit. Free online room planning tools are available for this purpose, for example... Flexcube Furn planner
2. Environmental influences
The most beautiful office is of little use if the environmental influences are negative.
– Avoid noise sources, for example by orienting the building towards a busy road.
– Daylight and fresh air supply are extremely important, but the amount of sunlight must be adjustable.
– The room temperature must be adjustable, both in summer and winter.
3. the right lighting conditions
Bright rooms are the best place to work. Natural daylight is ideal for our well-being. If there isn't enough daylight, artificial lighting can compensate. However, the lights must not cause reflections on the screen or glare.
Normally, your desk should be positioned at a 90-degree angle to the window, as this prevents reflections on the screen. For video conferences, however, it is best if the light comes from the front.
4. Ergonomics in the workplace
What principles should you follow? Consider your kitchen, for example. Since the 1950s, kitchens have been designed according to the so-called "work triangle." This involves placing frequently used items like the sink, stove, and refrigerator within an imaginary work triangle to ensure all tasks can be carried out efficiently and safely. This principle can also be applied to the workplace. Desks, storage areas, and, for example, the printer should be sensibly positioned for easy access.
The classic aspect of workplace ergonomics concerns correct sitting or standing at the desk. Maintaining a 90-degree angle is important here.
Are you interested in this topic? Here you will find a complete blog post about ergonomics in the workplace.
5. Multifunctional appliances and furniture
Click on the headings to learn more.
Ideally, the minimum dimensions should be 160x80cm. This size allows you to have important documents in front of or beside you and to work with one or more large monitors.
For ergonomically perfect working conditions, you should equip your workstation with an electrically height-adjustable desk so you can alternate between sitting and standing – and adjust the height perfectly to your individual needs. This helps prevent tension and back pain. Frequently changing your working position stimulates circulation, making you more alert and productive. Electric desks with a memory function make this even easier. You can preset different heights for sitting and standing, eliminating the need for time-consuming adjustments.
Plan for sufficient storage space around your workspace, because order creates efficiency.
- A storage container under the desk keeps all frequently used items within easy reach.
- Files and documents are well kept in filing cabinets.
- Open shelves are suitable for file folders that you use frequently.
- However, closed storage is generally preferable from an aesthetic point of view.
- The most effective method is a combination of open and closed storage:
- Open compartments for all important folders that they access frequently; compartments with flaps for less frequently used items.
- The flaps also serve as additional storage space!
- Large drawers are best suited for the bottom compartments, so you don't have to
- constantly bending over.
- Small drawers at torso to chest height are ideal for storing small items.
Good cable management can be achieved with a desk featuring a cable channel or alternatively
to reach a nice cable box.
A good office chair supports dynamic sitting. An optimal office chair adapts to every body movement and supports the body in every posture.
Your office chair should at least have a tilt mechanism. This means that the backrest tilts backward when you lean back, relieving strain on your back muscles. Even better is a synchro-tilt mechanism . The backrest follows all your movements, ensuring optimal posture. Lumbar support and armrests should, of course, be height-adjustable to perfectly suit your height.
Since we spend up to eight hours or more at work, the comfort factor is essential. Plants, textiles, decoration, and color are important elements in the interior design concept. Plants help to continuously purify the air. Large plants also have a sound-absorbing effect.
Textiles, especially carpets, are perfect for absorbing sound and improving acoustics. In all workplaces, it's important to incorporate some decorative items that help you switch off during short breaks.
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