Canadian Flag Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety Centre canadien d'hygiène et de sécurité au travail Government of Canada Wordmark
CCOHS: Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety
Français Contact Us Help
        
Canada Site
Web Info Service Products & Services OSH Answers Education & Training
Canada's national Occupational Health & Safety Resource
Home About Us E-News Bringing Health to Work Events Resources
OSH Answers Lists
What's New!
Subject Categories
Working in a Sitting Position
Working in a Sitting Position - Alternative Chairs
Working in a Sitting Position - Basic Requirements
Working in a Sitting Position - Good Body Position
Working in a Sitting Position - Overview
Working in a Sitting Position - What to Avoid while Sitting
Working in a Sitting Position - Work Chairs
Working in Standing/Sitting Positions
Related Products and Services

Courses:
Office Ergonomics
More Information
About OSH Answers
Feedback
Disclaimer
Inquiries Service

The Inquiries Service at CCOHS answers questions on the health or safety concerns people have about the work they do.

About the Inquiries Service
Ask a Question

Working in a Sitting Position - Work Chairs

What else should I consider if choosing a chair if my work involves both sitting and standing?
What is the basic requirement of a work chair?
What should I consider when selecting an office chair?


What is the basic requirement of a work chair?

A good chair supports the worker in a comfortable working position and allows for frequent changes in body position.

What should I consider when selecting an office chair?

  • Check that the adjustability range that can accommodate the workers' body sizes.
  • Select a chair that allows the worker to adjust the height and depth of the seat as well as the height and tilt of the backrest. An adjustable seat tilt is also desirable.
  • Select a chair with:
  • a backrest that is shaped to support the lower back and does not give way
  • a seat height that does not compress the underside of the thighs
  • a front edge curved downwards
  • non-slip, breathable fabric on the seat
  • stable base (5 legs).
  • Choose a chair with arm rests where practical
  • Use a footrest when feet cannot rest on the floor

Office  Chair

What else should I consider if choosing a chair if my work involves both sitting and standing?

  • Ensure that the chair has a wheel locking mechanism.
  • Use a swivel chair with an adjustable seat height.
  • Adjust workstation to the proper height.
  • Adjust the chair seat height between 25 to 35 cm (about 10 to 14 in.) below the work surface.
  • Use a footrest with a height of 40 to 50 cm (about 16 to 20 in.)
  • Sitting/Standing Chair

Sitting/Standing Chair

Document last updated on June 23, 1998

Copyright ©1997-2008 Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety


Important Notices and Disclaimers
©CCOHS, 2008
Technical Support
 
Client Services
Products & services info
Inquiries Service
Answers to workplace questions
Webmaster
Website feedback