Workstation comfort & ergonomics

Fit the workstation to the task

WorkSafe Victoria emphasises adjustable workstations that suit the person, equipment and tasks. Review the chair, desk, screen, keyboard and mouse together. A setup should allow comfortable access without repeatedly reaching or twisting for frequently used items.

A practical starting checklist

• Check that you can adjust your chair and desk for the task.
• Leave clear space for your legs and movement.
• Place commonly used equipment within easy reach.
• Consider whether a separate keyboard and screen arrangement would make sustained laptop work more comfortable.
• Discuss opportunities to vary tasks and break up prolonged sitting.

Avoid buying a solution before understanding the problem

A standing desk, special chair or pillow is not a diagnosis or a guarantee of comfort. Ask what a proposed change is meant to achieve, whether you can trial it and how you will judge the result. Different users may need different settings at the same workstation.

Bring your actual work demands

Photographs of your setup and a description of the tasks can make a discussion more useful. Note which tasks are difficult, their duration and whether symptoms change outside work. Ask your employer about a workplace assessment where appropriate. New, persistent or worsening symptoms need clinical assessment rather than a workstation adjustment alone.

Explore related guides

Planning care in Melbourne’s north

For people in Epping, Mill Park, Lalor, Reservoir and surrounding suburbs, Muscle Joint Bone is located at 26 Childs Road, Epping. Ask the team which appointment is appropriate and confirm practitioner availability before booking.

Sources and further reading

• WorkSafe Victoria: office layout and design
• Northern Spinal: original posture and ergonomics topic

Education updated 2 November 2026. Source topics have been rewritten; older source advice is not automatically endorsed. This guide cannot diagnose symptoms or replace individual healthcare advice.