TAB Office Systems

WORKSTATION COMFORT AND Compatibility PART 2

MikeC — Wed, 16 May 2012 19:48:08 +0000

• Computer Equipment
The right computer equipment is a very important part of your workstation comfort
Here are some examples –monitor or flat panel display, keyboard, lighting, mouse or pointing device?
Let’s start with the Keyboard.
There are a number of ailments that can come from using your keyboard incorrectly-from short-term issues like sore wrists to long-term problems like Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. These ailments can take years to develop and, once present, can be difficult or even impossible to reverse. That’s why it is so important – even if you’re not currently feeling pain – to position and use your keyboard properly to avoid future problems.

If you don’t currently use an adjustable keyboard/mouse tray, consider attaching one to your surface.
This valuable tool allows for a much wider range of adjustment and helps you maintain a proper ergonomic setup. Choose a system that is height adjustable, lets you tilt the keyboard away from you slightly for better posture (negative tilt), and allows you to use the mouse with your upper arms relaxed and as close to the body as possible.

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A “Balance 050” KEYBOARD tray for your workstation. One of the many ergonomic accessories we have to offer : )

Desk or worksurface?

MikeC — Wed, 09 May 2012 20:36:03 +0000

Adjust yourself to a new altitude (and attitude).

Adjustable height workstations are all the rage. Ergonomists agree, there are certain ways to reduce the effects of repetitive activities. One such activity, or Microbreak, is to give your back a rest by moving between a seated and standing postion for short periods of time.Today’s Adjustable Height workstations are designed to accommodate users of all shapes and sizes, and the ability to quickly and easily adjust from a seated to standing position will make a difference in motivating you to take a stand for comfort.

Selecting a stable, adjustable-height workstation that has a separate, adjustable
keyboard platform or keyboard and mouse platform could be the answer for you.

If you are not lucky enough to be able to adjust the height of your workstation, then you should have a keyboard platform with adjustable height and angle; one that isn’t adjustable may position
you too far from the work surface.
If you would like more information on height adjustable workstations just give us a call.

WORKSTATION COMFORT AND COMPATIBILITY ,Part 1

MikeC — Thu, 03 May 2012 19:52:29 +0000

How is your computer workstation treating you?
How do you feel after spending a day working in front of a computer?
Do you have sore eyes or headaches?
Do your wrists, arms, shoulders and back, feel stiff or uncomfortable?
You probably don’t know how to prevent the discomfort — or you may just accept it as
part of the job. Proper workstation layout and correct posture can prevent them.

What is a computer workstation?
A computer workstation is the environment around your computer

• Furniture – chair and desk or other work surface
• Computer equipment – computer, monitor or flat panel display, keyboard,
mouse or pointing device
• Accessories – document holder, footrest, telephone, palm rest, mouse bridge

Today let’s tackle your CHAIR
The chair is your foundation for comfortable computer work. It must fit you
and be appropriate for your tasks. What should you consider when selecting your chair:

Stability is very important. You want to select a chair that has a five-point base.

Next, you need to consider the seat pan. The ideal seat pan allows two to three fingers’ width from the front edge of the seat pan to the back of your lower leg at the knee when your back touches the backrest. The seat pan should allow your lower back to contact the backrest.

Good padding and fabric are very important. Hard, unpadded seat
pans are uncomfortable to sit on for more than an
hour. Soft, deeply padded seat pans cause you
to sink in too far..
I bet you never considered the Seat-pan angle. The seat pan should adjust to
reclining, flat, or forward angles – the three basic
angles for seated work – so that you can achieve
a comfortable posture.

Last, but not least, the backrest

The backrest should be large
enough to support your entire back,
including the lumbar (lower back) region,
but not so large that it interferes with your
arms: It should be adjustable for
height and tilt and contour to the curve
of your lower back.
I bet you had no idea there was so much to consider
when choosing the correct chair for your “Workstation”
Here at TAB we have many solutions to meet your seating needs.
The Stinger continues to be very popular for those in need of task seating.
www.stingerchair.com

Check out our web site for other seating options
www.tabofficesystems.com

Next we will tackle your Desk

File Moving Tips

MikeC — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 19:57:25 +0000

When it comes to moving your records, the most important thing to remember is security & accessibility. They require special handling so that nothing goes missing and every document remains secure and accessible.

The following are best practices for ensuring the accessibility, security and continuity of your records collection during a corporate move.

Accessibility

Business doesn’t stop because you are moving, and you need to be prepared to give employees access to the information they might require in the course of the move.

You need to ask yourself…

What is the likelihood of someone needing access to a file during the process ?
What indexing information is most important for locating specific files?

Remember, you’ll need detailed tracking information on the content of each container.

Security

It seems obvious, but ensuring the security of your files during a move is key. It isn’t just a question of ensuring that all your files arrive at the new location. They need to arrive intact and uncompromised, and this needs to be a verifiable process.

Start by asking:

How confidential is the information?
What level of security is needed during the move process to comply with privacy laws?

Seemlessness

A seemless transition is critical. You want your employees to leave their desks on Friday at one location and show up Monday at the new place without missing a beat.

Following best practices for file moves like conducting an initial file collection analysis, using tracking software, and implementing the proper file auditing system will help you achieve seamless continuity.

Offsite Document Storage

MikeC — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 13:40:39 +0000

How many boxes do you have sitting in offsite records storage? Do you know what’s in each of them?
For 20 years, We have helped our clients create their own on-site filing systems. As time went on, we began to realize that more of our clients were using out-of-the-way storage units or damp basements to store their important documents. Seeing the need for a better way, TAB Document Storage was born.

Why TAB?

We work with you to help you organize, manage and access your documents and records. An organized records management system ensures that only relevant files are maintained and allows for the smooth transfer of information.

No more stepping over files piled in the halways or wedging more files into already-bulging drawers!

No more trips through the snow to out-of-the-way storage units!

Our professional staff can create a cost-effective file storage system for your company. Using our innovative file management software, we’ll be able to track every file. If you need a file it can be in your hands in no time at all. Just imagine all the time and money you’ll save by storing your documents the TAB way.

The Alexander Technique

MikeC — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 11:50:45 +0000

So, by now we know that Ergonomics has nothing to do with money… hopefully. We know that the field of Ergonomics studies the design of equipment and how it relates to the human body (how it moves, and how it fatigues). Proper office equipment, according to Ergonomic principles, should promote postures that keep the body as active as possible, and to move with the user so as not to limit the human body’s natural inclination for static movement.
Whew, that was a lot of field jargon. Listen, making your workplace Ergonomic is far easier than it sounds. An article written by Holly A. Sweeney on the Website Ergonomics.org, listed the following three steps to consider when Ergonomic-afying your office:
1. All of the activities that your employees are assigned to do should allow them a variety of healthy and safe postures to eliminate the risk of injury.
2. If physical labor is necessary, an employee must be able to use the biggest muscle groups available so as not to pull or strain a muscle.
3. Finally, all work should be conducted in a way where the joints can be at the mid-point of their range of motion. This is specifically relevant to the head, trunk, and upper limbs.
One way that these principles have been adopted in the workplace is by utilizing the Alexander Technique. When learning this technique, students are able to observe themselves in a way that they have never done before. It was created for people to become more aware of the way that they are sitting, standing and misusing their bodies. Many performing arts schools have adopted this technique, and even go to workplaces and role play, showing workers the harm they are inflicting on their bodies.
In a class that teaches the Alexander Technique, students will be guided by the teacher with hands-on posture adjustments. With more practice, students notice that they are better able, and more comfortable performing everyday tasks such as sitting or standing. Many students also report that with a greater awareness of their bodies, comes an increased sense of self-worth and self-confidence.

TAB Office Systems is your source for quality office furniture, document storage , design planning and much more. Call us today at 1-800-287-2855 or contact us online.

First Impressions

MikeC — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 11:41:00 +0000

We’ve all learned it: don’t judge a book by its cover. Well, sometimes you just do, and you can’t help it. When deciding whether or not to use a company for whatever service they are providing, you expect them to be professional, fair and friendly, and you more than likely will judge the ability of the company by the first thing you see when you walk in—the reception area. According to iorgroup, who specialize in office design and refurbishment, the reception area must encompass everything that you want your company to represent. You want your reception area to represent practicality, control, and efficiency. With that said, how do you represent these qualities?
In order to provide the customers and visitors with a level of comfort, iorgroup first advises that you design the reception area so that the receptionist is always in view, first for safety of course, but also so that they seem available and accessible. Beyondtheofficedoor.com also recommends paying close attention to the lighting in order to make the atmosphere more welcoming and cheery.
Not only do visitors/patients need to be comfortable when they walk into the receptionist area, but it is also important for the receptionist and other office workers to feel at ease in their working environment. As you may know, wall colors have a big impact on the general feeling that a person gets when they walk into a room. Shades of green and yellow are said to be very calming and are great options to create a productive and relaxed working atmosphere.
Iorgroup also recommends getting a TV, light music, or even a sound machine in order to mask miscellaneous office noises that may distract other workers, or agitate a customer. Remember, think about what station you choose, as this too can reflect the professionalism of your office.

TAB Office Systems is your source for quality office furniture, document storage , design planning and much more. Call us today at 1-800-287-2855 or contact us online.

Ergo Expo

MikeC — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 11:33:18 +0000

When you think Las Vegas, what comes to your mind? Let me get inside your head and answer this question for you: ergonomics. Wait…that wasn’t what you were thinking, was it? Here is a great excuse to let your boss know that you need to go to Vegas… for the good of your company! What on earth is this person talking about? The National Ergonomics Conference and Exposition, which was held at Caesars Palace from November 29-December 2, of course! If you haven’t heard of this event, you must be living in a box. No seriously, this expo is huge—the largest ergonomics event in America to be exact. People came from all over the country plus Puerto Rico, Canada, the UK, Japan, France, Australia, Sweden, India, Israel and many other countries.
The ErgoExpo, as it has been nicknamed, has helped over 16,000 companies to become more ergonomically responsible, learning new ways to limit workplace-related injuries, and also to increasing the productivity of its employees. With the current economy—or lack thereof—it is more important than ever to maintain the quality of work being delivered, even with a shrinking workforce. That’s why it is so important to learn all the necessary tools and precautions to ensure the safety of your employees.
At this expo, some of the most innovative and cutting-edge technology developed to limit work-place injuries were displayed, and one could learn what it takes to keep the office safer, therefore increasing general productivity. Among many organizations that were in attendance at the ErgoExpo were Chevron, Duke University and Health System, Ford, HP, JetBlue, Mayo Clinic, Liberty Mutual and more.
So you decide… test out some cool new swivel chairs in Las Vegas, or sit in your uncomfortable, boring office at home. Hmm…what to do…
For more information about the ErgoExpo visit their website, http://ergoexpo.com/index.php?q=schedule.

TAB Office Systems is your source for quality office furniture, document storage , design planning and much more. Call us today at 1-800-287-2855 or contact us online.

Now Trending: Office Architecture?

MikeC — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 14:43:04 +0000

Within the past few years, the business of office design has become quite influential especially with the ever-changing demands and needs that the modern employee faces. Because the current state of the work-world does not solely consist of individuals working at their cubicles—but of telecommuting, collaboration, and business travel—the office design must reflect and cater to these changes.

So how exactly should one begin to design their office space, in order to maximize productivity, and allow its employees to work in their own unique way? Irene Pujol, director of interior design at a Philadelphia architectural firm said “We’re seeing…the need for lots and lots of flexibility and for teams to be regrouped or moved around on a daily basis…the only way to achieve that…is to have flexible workstations or a one-size-fits-all concept.”

Bobbrooke.com, author of the article, “New Trends in Office Design,” noted that in order for an office space to be mobile, and flexible, as is the need in today’s work-place, the following four components should be considered.

Consolidation

Because workspaces are becoming smaller and smaller with the current state of the economy, it is important to make the most out of less space. Many companies are consolidating their offices into one office, not only to save money, but to encourage the exchange of thought and ideas. The office space should inspire these groups of employees, not inhibit them. Many companies are now using counters rather than cubicles to create more space, and to promote group activity.

User-Friendly Office Furniture

A great new advance in office furniture, called a “sit-stand,” was created to allow the user greater flexibility like when moving from a seated position to a standing position. With this new office furniture invention, the desk moves with the user, creating a more efficient work station. Conference tables and 3 or 4-person cubicles are also becoming more common, again as to allow for greater group participation. Power sources that hang from the ceiling have also become handy—limiting the amounts of wires that take up space and can be a safety hazard.

Hoteling

This is when traveling business-people have access to a locker or workspace when they visit other regional offices. This saves money, and also allows the employees from differing branches to converse.

Setting the Mood

Finally it is important to make your employees feel comfortable in order to foster a productive work ethic. Many companies have painted walls a “calming” color using hues of green and yellow. Open spaces have also promoted a more relaxed and therefore a more industrious attitude from the employees.

TAB Office Systems is your source for quality office furniture, document storage , design planning and much more. Call us today at 1-800-287-2855 or contact us online.

National Improve Your Office Day

MikeC — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 14:33:25 +0000

Unbeknownst to the majority of the American population, “Improve Your Office Day” took place a few months ago on Tuesday, October 4th. Perhaps because of the somewhat sensitive subject that is telling your boss what stinks at your workplace, most of the country missed out on this integral national holiday.

All kidding aside, this holiday could have a major impact on office supply stores, and specialized office furniture that caters to the ergonomically-deficient American, typing away on their computer in their 6ft x 6ft cube. In accordance with this little-known gem of a holiday, employees of businesses small and large were able to speak openly about the inconsistencies in their work environments, sans risking unemployment.

On Oct. 3, in preparation for the holiday, Staples.com conducted a survey asking 300 employees, sampled from varying-sized companies, to cite the components that they wished to see added to or subtracted from their office environment.

Not surprisingly, results showed more than half (52%), of the employees sampled giving office furniture a grade of “C” or lower. This means that more than half of employees are unsatisfied with the quality and comfort of the office furniture they are receiving.

So is it worth getting an office chair that looks more like an Unidentified Flying Object than a place to rest while blogging? Research compiled from 40 studies of office workers in 2008 by the Journal of Safety Research says “yes.” The survey deduced that improving the ergonomics of office chairs and furniture increases worker productivity by about 17%. The studies also found that when these conditions are satisfactorily met, fewer musculoskeletal problems, as well as lower rates of absences and mistakes, were reported.

Keith Overland, a Norwalk, Connecticut chiropractor, said that he gets more than 10% of his clients due to poorly-designed office furniture. He suggests, at minimum, to get a chair with back and arm supports. Despite the influx of fancy, ergonomically-correct office furniture, Overland said that this number has nearly doubled from that of a decade ago.

About 35% of the employees sampled in the Staples.com survey cited “Getting nicer or more comfortable office furniture” as their number one wish to improve their office environment.

While you may have to excuse the insensitive metaphor, Robert Hayden, a Griffin, GA chiropractor said it best, “Bad office chairs are to chiropractors what candy is to dentists.”

TAB Office Systems is your source for quality office furniture, document storage , design planning and much more. Call us today at 1-800-287-2855 or contact us online.