4 Signs You Need a New Office Seat

4 Signs You Need a New Office Seat

If you've worked in an office for any significant period of time, you know how much the work environment can affect you. You know that cheerful co-workers, attractive décor and responsive management can make an enormous difference in how you feel and perform on a day-to-day basis.

But did you know that your physical comfort can have just as significant of an effect, if not a bigger impact, on your work? Lighting, desk height and office seating can play a large part in your ability to focus and work to the best of your abilities.

In this blog, we help you evaluate your current office chair. If you notice any of the following four signs, it's probably time to think about getting a
more ergonomic model.

1. Difficulty Making Adjustments

Every worker needs a slightly different seating setup to stay comfortable throughout the day, which is why most office chairs allow you to make adjustments. When you have a new chair, you can adjust the height, tilt and arm rests easily.

If you can't make adjustments because the mechanism jams, the gears don't stick or the chair isn't adjustable, you need another chair that can accommodate your needs.

2. Instability or Wobbling

Older chairs can begin to fall apart. Sometimes, worn-down office chairs become unstable. These seats cause tension and discomfort because you have to hold your position to keep the chair balanced.

Additionally, wobbly chairs pose a safety hazard, and can prove particularly dangerous in surveillance, industrial and operator work environments. You should not use swivel chairs as step stool to access hard-to-reach items. This rule holds especially true for any chair that shows instability since these chairs represent a serious fall risk.

3. Progressive Aches and Pains

Even a new or high-quality chair can be the wrong fit for a particular worker. If you have a chair that's incompatible with your needs, you will likely notice soreness that gets worse the longer you stay in the seat.

You may notice numbness, lower back pain or shoulder stiffness. These symptoms can lead to posture problems, spinal health issues and muscle injuries. Your first step in combating progressive aches and pains is upgrading your seating.

4. Visible Wear and Tear

Even if your chair feels fairly comfortable most of the time, you may still need a replacement if it's old and worn out. To determine whether your chair is past its prime, look at its condition. Consider replacement if you notice any of the following:
  • Broken arm rests, wheels or mechanisms
  • Exposed stuffing or foam padding
  • Loose components, including arm rests, head rests and wheels
  • Permanent indentations in the seat or back
  • Tears in the upholstery
Older chairs can make your office look shabby, and they are also more likely to exhibit the qualities listed above. Unless replaced with higher quality seats, chairs that have outlived their usefulness can contribute to workplace injuries.

For help choosing the right office seat, reach out to a seating expert. These professionals can ensure that you choose a chair that can withstand the environment you work in during your daily schedule.

A seating expert can also determine how much adjustability you need to assure that your chair has the best possible ergonomic fit for your body. Many office seats feature adjustable heights, backs and arm rests. But an expert can help you find other models with customisable headrests, lumbar supports and cushion tilt, features you'll need if you work particularly long shifts or have specific physical considerations.

Watch for these signs that you need to find a higher quality office seat to ensure that your work days stay comfortable and as stress-free as
possible.
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