As many workers across the country are setting up temporary workstations in their homes, incorporating correct ergonomic positioning into your remote office is important. Whether you are working from your dining room table or a designated office in your home, ensure you are positioning your body and equipment correctly. Make the the following adjustments to your workstation to avoid discomfort, fatigue and backache during the workday.

A: Adjust the height of your seat so that your feet are resting firmly on the floor. Use a footrest if you are unable to make adjustments.

B: The depth of your seat should allow the back of your knees to extend beyond the edge of your seat. Thighs should be approximately parallel to the floor.

C. Your forearm should be 90-100 degrees to your upper arm

D: Your wrists should not be angled up.

E: Set the height of the work surface so that you can work without straining or bending. Arrange commonly used items so that they are easily within reach.

F: The top one-third of your computer screen should be at or below eye-level. The distance between your eyes and the screen should be 18″ or more (arm’s length).

G: Document holders should be in line with the front of the monitor. Height and angle can be adjusted for the comfort of the user.

Adding a few inexpensive accessories can help to modify your home office and create a comfortable workstation. For additional assistance creating an ergonomic work space, schedule a virtual consultation with the Keeney’s furniture team.

Since many businesses and organizations have instructed their their teams to work remotely in the upcoming weeks, employees are needing to learn how to work from home. Although the thought of not spending your mornings in traffic and working in your pajamas may sound appealing, there are many changes remote workers need to make to stay motivated and productive when not in the office. Make sure you are set up for success by considering the following:

Create a Separate Workspace

Your workspace doesn’t have to be an office with a door but it should be a dedicated space that mentally prepares you to work. Whether it’s a small desk in the corner of your living room or your kitchen table, make sure you have a work surface large enough for your computer and any other materials you may need. Places that you associate with relaxing, like your bedroom or couch, aren’t ideal workspaces and should be avoided during work hours.

Establish a Routine

One of the most difficult aspects of working from home is establishing a routine. Try to start and end work around the same time each day and schedule breaks like you typically would in the office. This will help to ensure you’re not getting distracted by household chores or working 24/7.

Set Boundaries with Family Members

If your spouse or children are home, set boundaries for when you are available during the work day. While you may need to alter your schedule to provide family care, try to set aside dedicated work time to ensure you are meeting deadlines.

Get the Tools you Need

If you are regularly working from home, investing in an ergonomic chair is well worth it. It will help to avoid back problems and keep you productive. If your workspace is in a common area where other family members are, noise-cancelling headphones will signal to others that you are working and help avoid distractions.

Although working from home can be a big change from what you’re used to, you can still be productive if you establish a plan and create a functional workspace. Contact the Keeney’s team today if you need furniture or supplies to make your home office work for you!

*Product shown: Watson Miro

There are several ways that you can make your break room more environmentally friendly without much effort or cost. Simple things like switching from Styrofoam to compostable plates, eliminating single serve items and providing well-marked bins for sorting can make a big difference. See our tips below for easy ways to reduce waste and create a greener breakroom.

Provide Reusable or Compostable Tableware
The initial cost of replacing paper products might seem expensive, but not needing to keep them stocked will pay for itself in no time. If getting rid of paper cups is not feasible because you have too many employees or no place to wash and store them, purchasing compostable plates, bowls, cups and cutlery is an environmentally friendly alternative.
Find Compostable Tableware Here

Eliminate Individually Packaged Items
Keeping individual packs of sugar or coffee creamer in the break room can be a huge source of waste. Instead, buy larger containers that everyone can use. Not only can this cut down on waste, but it can save money, too.
Find Bulk Coffee Supplies Here

Make Recycling Easy
When there are no recycling containers available, employees may throw cans and plastic bottles into the regular garbage can. The best way to encourage recycling and composting is to provide bins for employees to sort their waste. Putting up signage near the bins informing staff of what goes in each bin will also be helpful.
Find Waste Sorters Here

Once the steps above are completed, educate your team on the changes to make sure your efforts are successful. Contact the Keeney’s team today for helping make the switch to a greener breakroom and office.

*Product shown: AIS Pierce