Hints on how to work from home better and healthier with some measures that can be implemented almost anywhere. A recommendation by IBA (Association for office and working environment in Germany).
Ideally, the work surface should be at least 120 centimetres wide and 80 centimetres deep, in order to have sufficient storage space and to ensure a sufficient viewing distance of at least 50 centimetres from the computer screen.
Working on the notebook for long periods of time in particular quickly leads to problems with the back or neck muscles, so a separate monitor, keyboard and mouse should also be used when working on the notebook.
If you work without am additional monitor, the laptop should at least be raised, for example with the help of some stacked books.
The height of the screen is optimally adjusted when the top line is slightly below eye level. The keyboard should be placed at a distance of 10 to 15 centimetres from the front edge of the table, upper and lower arms ideally form a right angle.
If the corresponding table is normally used differently, it should be cleared for this time and only used for working. Wherever possible, the workplace should remain permanently set up so that a reliable working environment is created.
A further advantage is that cables can be securely fixed in place, otherwise they can disturb the user and other members of the household or become a tripping hazard.
Sunlight with its broad spectrum of light contributes to a pleasant working atmosphere, especially in spring. However, disturbing light reflections on the monitor and glare from daylight should be avoided.
For artificial lighting, indirect light sources are a good choice, as long as they do not cause shadows or reflections on the monitor. Reflecting and shiny surfaces in the field of vision are also disturbing factors that can make work from home more difficult. A table with a glass top is therefore less suitable as a work desk.
It is very important to sit correctly, and an office chair or at least a swivel chair with adjustable seat height should be available. When sitting, the upper and lower legs should form a right angle and the lower back area should be supported by the backrest when sitting upright.
Where such equipment is not available, care should be taken when choosing a chair to ensure that the seat height is appropriate in relation to the work table. When working at the computer, it is important to sit a little higher than you are used to at home.
The IBA also recommends that employers be approached about the possibility of providing an ergonomic office chair during the phase of working from home.