Height Adjustable Desks: The Future of Workspaces

Introduction to Height Adjustable Desk

Did you know that the average office worker spends around 8 hours sitting each day? That’s a significant amount of time spent in a stationary position, which can have negative implications for our health and productivity. Luckily, the rise of ergonomic workspaces, specifically height adjustable desks, is changing the way we approach work environments.

Benefits of Height Adjustable Desk for Productivity

Height adjustable desks are revolutionising the traditional office setup by allowing individuals to switch between sitting and standing positions throughout the day. This dynamic approach brings a multitude of benefits for productivity, both physically and mentally.

1. Enhanced focus and energy levels: Sitting for prolonged periods can lead to fatigue, causing our minds to wander and our performance to decline. On the other hand, standing while working promotes improved blood circulation and increased oxygen flow to the brain, resulting in enhanced focus and higher energy levels.
2. Reduced health risks: Studies have shown that excessive sitting can contribute to a variety of health issues, such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and musculoskeletal disorders. By incorporating height adjustable desks into our workspaces, we can decrease the amount of time spent sitting and mitigate these risks. It makes the transition between sitting and standing (especially if it is an electric desk) easier for the user, whilst still keeping a 90 degree elbow angle.
3. Increased creativity and collaboration: Standing encourages movement and creates a more open and social environment. It allows for spontaneous interactions between colleagues and fosters a sense of collaboration. Additionally, the act of standing can boost creative thinking and lead to more innovative ideas.

Recommendations for Height Adjustable Desk

Now that you’re convinced of the benefits of height adjustable desks, let’s explore some recommendations for incorporating them into your workspace effectively.

1. DSE Assessment: Assess your daily tasks and workflow to determine the features that are essential for your height adjustable desk. Do you need a large surface area for multiple monitors? Are cable management options important to you? Tailor your choice to your specific requirements. At VergoUK, we have qualified and experienced display screen equipment assessment assessors who can carry out comprehensive DSE assessments for you and/or your colleagues both face to face or online depending on your requirements. A DSE assessment is a legal requirement if you are a worker who use display screen equipment (DSE) daily, as part of their normal work, continuously for an hour or more. (source: HSE).  The result of this professional assessment will determine if you will need a height adjustable desk or not. If the result shows musculoskeletal complaints exacerbated when sedentary, and the end user’s role is not allowing for regular movement during the working day, you are likely to be recommended a height adjustable desk. If your current desk height is not appropriate for the end user, particularly for the smaller/taller individuals or if the desk heights for individuals with mobility issues such as wheelchair users, where the work surface may need to be lowered/raised accordingly to accommodate their seated position and upper limb positioning is noticed, a height adjustable desk will certainly be recommended as an ergonomic solution to the workplace discomfort.
2. Quality matters: Investing in a high-quality height adjustable desk is crucial, as it will ensure durability and a smooth adjustment mechanism. Look for desks made from sturdy materials, such as solid wood or steel, and read customer reviews to gauge their reliability.
3. Ergonomic accessories: Pairing your height adjustable desk with ergonomic accessories can further enhance your comfort and productivity. Consider adding an ergonomic chair, an adjustable monitor arm to maintain proper eye level, and a standing mat to reduce fatigue.

How to choose the right Height Adjustable Desk

Choosing the right height adjustable desk can be an overwhelming task with the plethora of options available in the market.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed decision:

1. Measure your space: Before purchasing a desk, measure the dimensions of your workspace. Ensure that there is enough room for the desk to comfortably fit without obstructing walkways or other furniture.
2. Height range: Check the height range of the desk to ensure it suits both your sitting and standing needs. The ideal desk should have a broad range of adjustability to accommodate users of different heights.
3. Smooth operation: Test the desk’s adjustment mechanism to ensure it operates smoothly and silently. You don’t want to be disrupted by jarring movements or excessive noise while transitioning between sitting and standing.
4. Stability: Stability is a key factor in a height adjustable desk. Look for desks with a solid base and a sturdy frame to provide stability and prevent wobbling or shaking while working.
5. Price and warranty: Consider your budget and compare prices across different brands. Additionally, check for warranty coverage to protect your investment in case of any defects or malfunctions.

Creating a productive and healthy work environment

Height adjustable desks are just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to creating a productive and healthy work environment. Here are some additional tips to promote well-being in your workspace:

Take regular breaks: Regardless of whether you have a height adjustable desk, it’s important to take regular breaks from sitting or standing. Use these breaks to stretch, walk around, or engage in light physical activity to rejuvenate your body and mind.

1. Maintain proper posture: Whether sitting or standing, maintaining correct posture is essential for your well-being. Sit or stand up straight, aligning your ears, shoulders, and hips. Avoid slouching or hunching over your desk.
2. Personalise your space: Make your workspace your own by incorporating elements that bring you joy and inspiration. Add plants, pictures, or motivational quotes to create a positive and welcoming environment.
3. Stay hydrated: Keep a water bottle nearby and make it a habit to stay hydrated throughout the day. Proper hydration improves focus and cognitive function, helping you stay alert and energised.
4. Prioritise self-care: Remember to prioritise self-care both inside and outside the office. Get enough sleep, eat nourishing meals, and engage in regular exercise to support your overall well-being.

Investing in a height adjustable desk is an investment in your health and productivity. By incorporating this innovative solution into your workspace and following these tips for a healthy work environment, you can unlock your full potential and create a fulfilling and balanced professional life.

If you will need any of our experienced assessors to come in and carry out DSE assessments for you or your company, kindly fill and submit the form below and we will be in touch with you shortly to discuss your requirements.