Whether working at a traditional office or remotely the chairs we sit in are important. Next to computers, internet services and communication tools, an office chair is one of the most useful tools that supports us. Here are a few interesting facts about one of our most supportive tools; the office chair.
1) We Spend Up to 17,000 Hours Sitting
According to the National Post the average office worker sits about 10 hours a day. Additionally, the average American works 1,700 hours a year. Over the year office workers may spend approximately 17,000 hours in office chairs. Which leads to office chairs having wear and tear over time. Having an ergonomic office chair can provide flexibility and comfort to fit each member of your team.
2) Barber Chairs Advanced Faster than Office Chairs
By the 1890s barber chairs raised, lowered, reclined and revolved on hydraulic mechanism. Having these functions allowed the barber to be more flexible with their client. In the late 19th century engineers studied movement to make functions for sewing, surgery and dentistry easier. However, office chair adjustments and flexibility was not incorporated into chair design until the middle of the 20th century.
3) Productivity is Higher in Ergonomic Office Chairs
Research shows employees are 17.5 % more productive when working in an ergonomic setting. While people are 17.7% more productive when given a highly adjustable office chair. There is a correlation between productivity and comfortability. Having an ergonomic office chair allows one to focus on their responsibilities at work oppose to discomfort.
4) Arm Rests…To Have or Not To Have?
How often do you rest your arms on chair arm rests? Arm rests on office chairs were not traditionally recommended because it prevented people from being close to desks. Having adjustable arm rests on an ergonomic office chair contributes to proper posture. Arm rests that move up and down or swivel out and in offers support while sitting in a chair.
5) 1800s: First Chair with Wheels
In the 1800s Charles Darwin, naturalist, biologist and geologist, added wheels to his laboratory chair. He wanted to access everything quickly and freely to work faster. Today we have wheels on office chairs that provide easy fluid movement. While many office workers may not scoot, slide or roll too far from their desk office chairs without wheels is uncommon.
Professionally designed ergonomic office chairs are in many office environments today. Do you know when to replace office chairs? Learn signs to look for when replacing chairs and download the SitOnIt Seating White Paper "When to Replace an Office Chair".
Do you know more interesting facts about office chairs? Please share your in the comments below.