When people outside the industry think about hospitality jobs, they likely think of the front line roles in which we are on our feet constantly and rarely have a moment to sit. The truth, however, is that many of us spend much of our time behind a desk and looking at screens. Your feet might not hurt at the end of the day if you work in Reservations, but without the right setup your eyes and back probably do!
Ensuring that work spaces are set up ergonomically should be a part of well-being policies and procedures. This may involve making adjustments to the work environment to reduce stress and strain on the body, especially if the individual in the role changes. Here are some tips for setting up an ergonomic office:
Desk and chair: Choose a chair that provides good lower back support and adjust it so that your feet are flat on the floor. The desk should be the appropriate height so that your arms are at a 90-degree angle when typing.
Monitor placement: Position the monitor directly in front of you, about an arm's length away, with the top of the screen at or slightly below eye level.
Keyboard and mouse: Place the keyboard and mouse within easy reach and at a comfortable height, so that your arms and wrists are in a neutral position.
Document holder/second screen: Use a document holder to place documents next to the monitor if these are frequently used, or set up two screens so that multiple windows and programs can be open at once. This will avoid the need to constantly look back and forth between the screen and papers on the desk.
Lighting: Ensure that the lighting in the office is adequate and does not cause glare or reflections on the screen.
Telephones: If you use the phone frequently, consider using a headset or speakerphone to reduce neck and shoulder strain.
Footrest: If your feet do not reach the floor, use a footrest to improve posture and reduce strain on the legs and back.
Standing desks: Desks with adjustable heights or desktop units which can enable standing are a great alternative for some people. Be sure to set the height so that you can maintain the 90 degree angle of your arms.
Remember to take frequent breaks, stretch, and adjust your posture throughout the day to maintain a healthy and ergonomic work environment.
The back of house is often overlooked in hospitality, as the budget is focused on what the guest sees. However, creating workspaces which are safe and comfortable will ensure that all employees are happier and more productive in their roles and should be a part of every business’s plan for employee well-being.