Anyone in charge of buying office furniture, particularly chairs, for an Orange County business knows the problems that are hidden in this seemingly very simple task. There are many different styles of office chairs along with a variety of styles in chairs for the waiting rooms, visitor areas, breakrooms, boardrooms and even for the corporate offices.
There are a few simple rules or guidelines that can make it easy to choose the best office chairs for all of the areas in the building. It is important to keep in mind that some chairs will be used more than others, so these chairs need to be carefully considered as to their comfort, safety, and benefits.
Adjustable and Ergonomic
Ergonomic is a term that is used commonly with many types of furniture and equipment. It means that the specific items have been designed with the human user in mind. When it comes to chairs, the science behind ergonomics allows the chair to provide the right level of support for the user while also decreasing discomfort.
One of the features to look for besides an ergonomic design is the ability to adjust the chair. This is critical when someone will be sitting at a desk for short to extended periods of time. Look for chairs can be easily adjusted by arm height, lumbar support regions, seat height and seat and back angle. Tension control is also important as it allows for a more personalized fit for the individual.
General Considerations
There are a wide number of added features to consider. The overall look of the chair from minimal to more classic as well as the type of upholstery and the color choices will always be a central decision.
Lighter colored fabrics on chairs tend so show wear faster while darker colors can easily mask stains or wear. Some chair styles now feature an upholstered seat with more of mesh or lightweight fabric on the back, providing additional cooling and a more modern look.
It is a good idea to talk to the Orange County employees and get their input before buying new office chairs. In many cases, a “one size fits all” approach may not be the best. Providing a limited number of choices can allow employees to choose the best style for their personal comfort level.
