How to declutter your workstation while improving its ergonomics.
A computer monitor, keyboard, and mouse sitting on the tabletop consume valuable workspace. In a previous blog post, we saw the importance of preserving good computer placement ergonomics. But workspace and good ergonomics often conflict. That post outlined the three essentials for good computer ergonomics at a workstation:
- Screen location
- Keyboard/mouse location
- Seating (or standing) position
But even when following sound ergonomic rules, problems arise when the computer monitor and keyboard/mouse are sitting on the workstation tabletop itself:
- The monitor and keyboard consume valuable working space and often get in the way of other workstation tasks.
- Frequently, all that’s required are short-term tasks such as checking a message and/or entering data. The computer setup is idle most of the time, making the wasted space problem even greater.
- Different people with different heights and reaches using the computer result in changing ergonomic requirements.
Ergonomic monitor/keyboard mounts free up tabletop space.
Figure 1: Monitor & keyboard mounted on articulating arm.
There’s a wide variety of inexpensive keyboard stands and monitor mounts available online or from the local office supply store. But they are strictly light-duty solutions. A workstation located on a manufacturing floor or in a lab requires a more robust solution.
Start by evaluating how frequently the computer is needed. Will the user be sitting or standing? Often, users require the keyboard only for short-term tasks such as data entry. A monitor and keyboard tray on an articulating arm mounted to a vertical upright is a simple and effective solution (Figure 1). Getting the monitor and keyboard off the tabletop also recovers valuable work space. The foldable arm is easy to move out of the way when not in use—especially useful where space is at a premium.
In cases where the user is standing while entering data, monitor arm extensions also provide proper ergonomics for keyboard reach and monitor height.
Sometimes, only information display is needed.
Figure 2: Multiple monitor mounting rail positions displays above the tabletop.
Often, only information display is required in many manufacturing and lab environments. There’s no need for a keyboard or mouse.
A monitor mounted on an articulating arm is a good solution where only one monitor display is required.
A multiple monitor rail works well where more information than that accommodated by a single screen must be displayed. An array of several monitors may be adjusted horizontally on the rail. (Figure 2).
Enable good ergonomics when different people are using the workstation.
Figure 3: A floating articulating arm allows adjustment in three dimensions
As discussed in the earlier post, computer placement ergonomics are optimized for one user.
Often different people perform tasks at the same workstation This situation is common in labs and on manufacturing floors. Each person entering and viewing data has a particular reach and height. When the monitor and keyboard are sitting on the workstation tabletop, the user typically shifts the position of the keyboard and monitor to suit their needs. Even then, the user will rarely achieve an optimal ergonomic position.
An ergonomic keyboard and monitor mount that “floats” above the tabletop is a practical solution. This articulating arm is adjustable in all three dimensions—simultaneously solving both height and reach issues—and optimizing ergonomic position for each user.
Articulating and “floating” arms improve workstation ergonomics.
- Articulating arms or mounting rails are useful for data entry and information display, especially where space is at a premium.
- Getting the monitor and/or keyboard off the tabletop with an articulating or “floating arm” frees up valuable tabletop workspace.
- “Floating” arms enable each user to optimize his or her ideal ergonomic position at the workstation.
Find out more about how to free up space and improve ergonomics by working with an experienced design specialist. Together, you’ll be able choose the best articulating or floating arm solution from our extensive array of computer accessories.
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