Elevate Your Workday: Crafting the Ergonomic Workstation for UAE Professionals

Creating an ergonomic desk setup is more than just a trend; it's a necessity for those who spend long hours at their workstation.

In the UAE, the expanding commercial sector, increasing number of businesses, and the rise in foreign investments have led to a higher demand for office spaces in these cities.

Also, changes in the law have reduced the workweek to the UAE labor market, reducing typical working hours for private organizations from 48 hours a week to 40 hours. Along with this office environments are becoming increasingly modern and sophisticated in UAE, having a productive and ergonomic workstation is vital for maintaining health and enhancing productivity.

Understanding Ergonomics: Why It Matters

Ergonomics is the science of designing the workplace to fit the worker. A well-designed ergonomic setup helps prevent discomfort and injuries that can arise from prolonged sitting, poor posture, and repetitive movements.

In the UAE, where the office furniture market is projected to grow by over 6% CAGR from 2022 to 2027, there’s a strong emphasis on quality and innovation in office furniture design to meet ergonomic standards.

Key Elements of an Ergonomic Desk Setup

1. The Right Chair: The foundation of comfort:

• Choose an Ergonomic Chair: In the UAE, companies are investing in high-quality ergonomic chairs that support the natural curve of the spine. Look for chairs with adjustable seat height, lumbar support, and a reclining backrest. A chair that meets BIFMA standards is often a good choice.
• Adjust Your Chair Correctly: The chair height should allow your feet to be flat on the floor or on a footrest, with your knees at a 90-degree angle. The lumbar support should fit snugly in the curve of your lower back.

2. The Perfect Desk: Functionality meets style

• Desk Height and Space: Your desk should be at a height that allows your elbows to be at a 90-degree angle when typing. Ensure there's enough space to keep your keyboard and mouse within easy reach.
• Standing Desks: The trend for sit-stand workstations is growing in the UAE, as they allow for better movement and flexibility throughout the day.

3. Monitor Placement: Reducing eye and neck strain

• Position Your Monitor: The monitor should be an arm’s length away, with the top of the screen at or slightly below eye level. This prevents neck strain and encourages a neutral head position.
• Use Dual Monitors: If your work involves multiple screens, align them side by side at the same height to minimize neck rotation.

4. Keyboard and Mouse: Keeping hands and wrists happy

• Ergonomic Keyboard and Mouse: An ergonomic keyboard helps keep your hands in a natural position. Use a wrist pad to maintain a neutral wrist position while typing or using the mouse.

5. Lighting: Brighten up your workspace

• Natural Light: Position your desk near a window if possible. Natural light is known to boost mood and productivity.
• Task Lighting: In case of insufficient natural light, use task lighting that reduces glare on screens. The UAE market has seen a rise in demand for energy-efficient LED desk lamps that provide focused lighting.

6. Accessories: Enhancing ergonomics with the right tools

• Document Holder: If you frequently refer to documents, a document holder positioned next to your monitor can help reduce neck strain.
• Cable Management: Keep your workspace tidy and organized with cable management solutions. This not only reduces clutter but also minimizes the risk of tripping or pulling on cables accidentally.

Addressing Sitting Time: A UAE Perspective

In the UAE, the average working professional spends an alarming 8 to 10 hours sitting at their desk daily. This prolonged sitting time is linked to various health issues, including back pain, obesity, and cardiovascular problems.

The need for ergonomic solutions is more crucial than ever to counteract these risks. Incorporating adjustable chairs, standing desks, and ergonomic accessories can significantly reduce the negative impacts of long sitting hours.

Productivity Tips for Your Workstation

1. Declutter Your Workspace
2. Personalize Your Space
3. Incorporate Movement

We’re excited to introduce our newsletter, Workspace Matters, dedicated to enhancing your productivity. In our latest issue, we share effective strategies to manage and overcome brain fog at work.

The Future of Ergonomic Workspaces in the UAE

According to recent reports, the ergonomic furniture segment is expected to see significant growth, driven by corporate demand for high-quality, health-focused office solutions.

Incorporating ergonomic principles into your desk setup is an investment in your health and productivity. Whether you're working from a corporate office in Dubai or a home office in Abu Dhabi, creating a well-designed ergonomic workstation will help you stay comfortable, focused, and efficient.

By making small adjustments to your workspace, you can significantly improve your work experience and overall well-being. As the UAE continues to lead in modern office solutions, embracing ergonomics will keep you ahead in the game of productivity.

BOSQ Ergonomic Living, UAE BOSQ helps you create high-performing workspaces with ergonomically designed comfort. Need assistance to set up? Reach out to us at [email protected].