Basic Equipment
To ensure a safe working environment, it is recommended that each workstation has the following:
- a functional chair
- an appropriate work desk
- a keyboard palm rest
- a mouse palm rest
- a lumbar pad
- monitor risers (if needed)
- and a footrest (if needed)
Laptops and the RMP (Resource Management Plan) process will support "mobile-ready" setups where ITS will provide a separate monitor and wireless keyboard and mouse for each laptop if the computer changes from a desktop to a laptop. This laptop setup with a docking monitor, keyboard, and mouse will provide the same ergonomic setup as a desktop.
Standing desk converters are cost-effective, height-adjustable, multi-leveled mini-desks that sit atop a current desk. They average 30” x 20” and are powered electrically, pneumatically, or manually (hand-cranked). Standing desks are considered optional equipment to be purchased by the department, and at the supervisor's discretion.
Here are some considerations regarding standing desk converters: (1) the item is potable but heavy (2) manual versions can be cumbersome, (3) the ideal ergonomic setup is not always possible, and (4) they are not often used. If a standing desk converter is provided to a faculty or staff member, the ergonomist in Human Resources should be contacted to provide resources on how to use and set up the desk converter properly.
Standing desks are electric desks that move to fit the user in a standing or sitting posture. If your office is interested in providing this equipment to your faculty/staff, the recommendation is to reach out to Facilities Management (FM) for equipment recommendation and procurement.
Chairs should be replaced typically between 8 – 15 years, or when visibly broken. If your office is interested in providing a chair test for the faculty/staff, email MyWellbeing@lmu.edu to request an appointment. Department budgets are used for new or replacing broken chairs. If a faculty/staff member needs a smaller, larger, or taller chair, the recommendation is to request an ergonomic assessment. The recommendation is to reach out to FM for equipment recommendations and procurement.