Office ergonomics plays a crucial role in ensuring workplace safety, improving productivity, and preventing long-term health issues. Whether you’re an employer looking to create a better work environment or an employee seeking to enhance comfort at your desk, understanding ergonomics is essential. This guide covers the best practices, ergonomic risks, and actionable tips tailored for workplaces in Singapore.

What is Office Ergonomics?

Ergonomics is the practice of tailoring work environments to fit the needs of individuals, ensuring that workstations support both the physical and psychological well-being of employees.
Office ergonomics in Singapore focuses on:
designing and arranging workspaces to:

optimise efficiency
minimise discomfort
promote a healthier work experience.

Key Benefits of Good Office Ergonomics:

1. Reduces the risk of repetitive strain injuries (RSIs)

2. Improves posture and minimizes back and neck pain

3. Enhances productivity and employee morale

4. Prevents long-term musculoskeletal issues

Want to take the next step? Enroll in our Office Ergonomics Course to learn practical applications and solutions.

Common Office Ergonomic Issues in Singapore Workplaces

Singapore’s fast-paced work environment means many employees spend prolonged hours at desks, often leading to:

Poor Posture: Slouching, hunching over desks, or improperly adjusted chairs.
Wrist Strain & Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Repetitive typing without wrist support.
Eye Strain & Digital Fatigue: Prolonged screen exposure without breaks.
Back & Neck Pain: Improper chair positioning leading to stress on the spine.

How to Set Up an Ergonomic Computer Workstation

1. Chair & Desk Positioning

– Use an adjustable chair with lumbar support to reduce lower back strain.

– Adjust your chair so your elbows are at a 90-degree angle to the table and your shoulders relaxed. Use a footrest or props if you need, to ensure your feet are flat, not dangling.

2. Monitor Height & Distance

– Keep the top of your monitor at eye level, about an arm’s length away.

– Adjust screen brightness and use blue-light filters to reduce eye strain.

3. Keyboard & Mouse Placement

– Place your keyboard such that your elbows are maintained at about 90-degrees.

– Keep your mouse close to your keyboard to minimize arm stretching.

4. Lighting & Screen Adjustments

– Use natural lighting where possible to reduce glare.

– Adjust monitor settings to minimize blue light exposure.

Setting up an ergonomic workstation is essential—but it’s just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to working ergonomically. To truly support comfort and productivity, you also need to consider the user’s physical characteristics, working habits, and specific demands of their tasks.

Book an ergomic workshop or an in-person consult with our ergonomist to discover the best practices for working comfortably and efficiently at your workstation!

Office Ergonomic Regulations & Standards in Singapore

Singapore workplaces are encouraged to adhere to ergonomic best practices outlined by local authorities.

Key Guidelines:

Singapore Standard SS 514:2016 – Code of Practice for Office Ergonomics
Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Guidelines – Recommendations for ergonomic workstation setups

Office Ergonomics in Singapore: Key Takeaways

Improving office ergonomics in Singapore workplaces is a key step toward a healthier and more productive workforce. By following best practices, investing in ergonomic furniture, and training employees on proper posture and workstation setups, businesses can create safer and more efficient work environments.

Need assistance? Contact us for a consultation or training session today!