OFFICE DESKS

WHY A GOOD OFFICE DESK IS ESSENTIAL FOR A COMFORTABLE WORK ENVIRONMENT.

Many people spend a lot of time sitting at an office desk and working on their computers. The right furniture can improve productivity and help employees avoid back pain and other potential health problems.

How to choose the right Office Desk 

Identify Just How You Will Use Your Desk

•Mostly computer work:

Select a desk or workstation specifically designed for computer use. If using a PC, be sure the desk offers space or a compartment to hold the CPU underneath. Look for built-in wiring holes or channels for electrical connections; this enures all wires are kept out of your way.

•Paperwork-generating:

Choose a desk or workstation that will have the roomiest surface possible so you can accommodate those spreadsheets, bulky books, or piles of important papers. You may also want to consider a desk with shelving or overhead cabinet space.

•Combination of computer work, paperwork, meetings:

Consider an “L”-shaped desk setup to allow for both work and meeting space. If finances or space allow, a “U”-shaped model will provide even more space and makes an impressive presentation for clients or guests.

Ergonomics and Space

• Your desk should provide clearance for your legs; standard desk heights of 730mm - 760mm from the floor are sufficient for most users.

• Sitting behind the desk, there should optimally be at least 1000mm of space. A minimum of 900mm of space should also be available in-between the desk and another piece of office furniture, and in front of the desk if you use a guest/client chair.

• For computer-users, keyboards need to be placed at a comfortable height. Keyboards placed on traditional desks may be at too high a height and may result in significant discomfort or muscle strain for the user. Computer desks should either be equipped with a keyboard platform, or legs that can be adjusted. Be sure that any keyboard platform is large enough to hold a mouse.

• Desktop equipment and materials should be within easy and comfortable reach, and should have sufficient space so as not to overload the desktop.

• If the desk has a sharp edge, consider placing a wrist pad along the edge to help prevent unnecessary pressure and pinching on the inner surface of the wrists.

Desk Surface

• Laminate: the most popular choice

A plastic finish that is applied to a wood core, laminate is affordable, durable, and withstands more than pure wood or veneer. It also comes in a wide array of colors and wood grain patterns. For a quality laminate that will better withstand daily use and abuse, look for a desk with a thick, high pressure laminate.

• Metal or Steel: the most durable choice

Although not the most professional in appearance, metal or steel desks are reasonably priced and good for desks subject to long-term heavy use or for high-traffic areas. Better quality desks of this type can be assessed in part by checking and feeling the desks overall weight.

• Wood or Veneer: the most elegant choice

Veneer is a thin surface layer of wood glued to a more inferior base. Wood and veneer desks generally look more attractive than other types of desk, but they are typically more expensive and considerably more delicate; they nick more easily and are not suited for rough or heavy use.

Quality and Durability

• The quality of a desk is often most evident in the construction of the drawers.

Metal suspension rollers show a sturdy suspension. Drawers should open and close easily while bearing weight. Optimally, you want the drawers to slide out to their full length to allow full and easy utilization of space.

High quality wood drawers are assembled with an interlocking (dovetail) construction; this is stronger than drawers put together with just staples or glue. With a steel or metal desk, take a look at the drawers when they’re closed. If you see a gap where the drawer meets the desk, the desk is not positioned correctly.

• Examine the corners and edges of a desk. You don’t want to see any fraying.