Laptops offer tremendous versatility for the modern workspace. Portable and powerful, virtually anywhere can become a temporary office. However, due to their compact nature, laptops are not very ergonomically friendly. One cannot adjust the keyboard and screen positions for the individual user since they are attached to one another. In addition, laptop input devices such as keyboards and touchpads often don’t encourage proper typing technique and place extra strain on the wrists. Don’t get discouraged though! We have some tips on how you can create an ergonomically safe workplace anywhere you go.
If You Have Access to a Desk or Working Surface…
If you’re using a laptop as your main stationary workstation with access to a flat work surface such as a desk, there are some easy additions you can get to improve the ergonomic value of your workspace. The best option is a docking station where you can connect a standard monitor and a number of input devices. The following input devices are usually fully adjustable and interchangeable so that you can ergonomically tailor your space to you:
- Monitor Riser – elevates your monitor to the proper viewing height and allows you to tilt and swivel it for a further ergonomic benefit.
- Ergonomic Keyboard – available in many styles to promote healthy typing posture.
- Ergonomic Mouse – reduce stress on the hands and wrists.
If You’re Without a Desk or Working Surface…
More often than not, when people are working on the go, they’re using laptops in areas without an available work surface or desk. In these cases, when the setting is on a couch or in bed, a full docking station won’t be an option. However, provisional ergonomic measures can be applied in these settings to increase health and safety.
- Laptop Holder – elevate the screen to proper viewing height and prevent unnecessary tilting of the head.
- Lap Desk – easily hold an attached mouse and keyboard along with your laptop for a mini workstation on the go.
- Mini Keyboards & Mice – bring compact travel accessories to use on your lap desk.
- Back Support Cushions – if you’re not sitting in a traditional chair, you may need to add some lumbar support to your back to maintain a proper posture.
As technology progresses and devices become smaller and more portable, they often cannot keep up with ergonomic health. Designers are coming out with more convenient and intuitive devices for the average user, but they don’t always consider how the human body interacts with these devices on a daily basis. It is up to you to consider your ergonomic health if you work at a computer for most of the day!
