Purchasing the right equipment and designing spaces to support healthy working postures saves money in the long-run.
Ergonomic equipment and furniture purchasing
The following list of furniture, equipment, and providers is not exhaustive. Furthermore, not all items listed below will be right for every individual. Differences in size, shape, work requirements, work styles and workspace will impact the overall fit. Purchasing decisions are made by the department or unit and we encourage open communication between all parties to ensure the right items are purchased. If you are unsure of what to purchase, contact the Ergonomics team. Okanagan staff and faculty can refer to the Okanagan ergonomics website for location specific information.
Height adjustable desks purchasing guide
- Height adjustable desk purchasing guide. This guide will provide you with information on the recommended height range, desk dimensions and vendor examples.
- Height adjustable platform purchasing guide. This guide will provide you with an outline about the pros and cons of the different styles of height adjustable platforms that sit on top of an existing desk.
Ergonomic chairs purchasing guide
- Office chair purchasing guide. This guide will provide you with a list of examples of good chairs available from common UBC suppliers.
- Office chair ergo criteria. This guide will provide you with an overview of key features to look for when purchasing a new chair.
- Home office chairs. This guide will provide with options to consider when working from your home office.
Office accessories purchasing guides
The purchasing guides below will provide you with equipment examples as well as suggestions of where these items can be purchased from.
- Mice
- Keyboards
- Palmrests
- Backrests & seat cushions
- Riser for monitors and laptops
- Footrests
- Anti-fatigue mats
- Keyboard trays
- Monitor arms
- Corner makers
- Staplers
- Floor and task lamps
Design requirements and guidelines
- UBC Tech Guidelines: Ergonomics Requirements 01 87 13.1
- Office Furniture Checklist for designers
- LEED Pilot Credit 44: Ergonomics Approach for Computer Users
Ergo Fund
The goal of the HR Ergo Pilot Fund is to support the University’s effort to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries (MSI) by providing one-time funding for equipment purchases or space optimization solutions that mitigate MSI risk. This fund is particularly intended for new and innovative solutions that have not been trialed before. This fund is not intended to fund office-related equipment. Please see below for more information and the application form.
- Ergo Fund Info Sheet including project examples
- Ergo Fund Application Form