Thinking outside the office box: Create a comfortable and ergonomic outdoor workspace this summer

Starting simple: What is ergonomics?

The term “ergonomics” is thrown around quite often in the workplace, especially for employees whose jobs involve sitting for long periods of time. They’re often reminded how important it is to make sure they’re working comfortably and have an “ergonomically configured workspace.” However, many have never been taught the basics of ergonomics in the first place.

Simply put, ergonomics means adapting your workstation to fit you, rather than you adapting to fit your workstation. If you’re stuck sitting for most of the day, there are some basics of ergonomics to understand, starting with the 90-degree rule.

- A simple way to apply the 90-degree rule is as follows:

- Adjust your chair so that all of your joints are in a 90-degree position

- Keep your arms neutral and neck flat

- Plant your feet firmly on the ground (use a foot stool if you’re shorter)

- Look straight ahead with your eyes aligned with the top third of your computer screen

- Reach out and you should be able to touch your computer screen with your fingertips

Karen Warren, a Canadian Registered Safety Professional, suggests a few investments that can make all the difference when setting up your workspace. “With so many people working on laptops, I always recommend purchasing a riser with an external keyboard and mouse. If you have a smaller space, you can consider a standing desk stool that allows you to work from a kitchen counter or island.” In addition, Warren suggests investing some time in planning out your workspace. “Many remote or hybrid employees really don’t take the time to properly set themselves up for working from home. Instead of having a dedicated space, they choose to sit on couches or dining room chairs, which can’t be adjusted and can lead to injuries or chronic pain. Having a plan is key to comfort.”

Switching things up with an outdoor workspace

When moving to work outdoors, many of the same principles still apply, with a few key additions. Warren tries to simplify how to prepare: “When going to work outside, you should still bring your external mouse and keyboard, along with something to raise your laptop, which could be a proper stand or even a box. If you can’t bring your desk chair, you may need to sit on a pillow to raise yourself to the correct height, as patio chairs are rarely adjustable. You can also purchase an inflatable lumbar pillow, which are inexpensive and easy to pack, and are often handy when travelling as well.”

Other considerations that sometimes don’t get enough attention include:

- Sit where the sun is to the side of you (not in front or behind) and consider sunglasses to reduce glare and eye strain

- Wear sunscreen and stay hydrated (don’t just stick with coffee or tea)

- Invest in noise-cancelling headphones, or even ear plugs, if you anticipate that noise could be a distraction

By following these simple tips and taking a little time to consider how ergonomics can improve your workday, you might find yourself more eager to spend some time working outside this summer instead of worrying about how you’ll feel when you wake up the next morning. 

Enter some text...