UK Office Chair Regulations
There are several pieces of legislation and a number of British Standards relating to seating at work (see Legislation, Standards & Reading page), a summary book 'Seating at Work' produced by the HSE provides a useful summary of the things you need to check in order to be compliant:
- Is the chair comfortable for the intended period of use?
- Is the lower back adequately supported?
- Is the upholstery sufficiently supportive and comfortable?
- Are edges sufficiently padded and shaped to prevent uncomfortable pressure on the thighs?
- Does the chair have adeqaute types and ranges of adjustment?
- Is the height adjustable to allow work to be carried out at or below elbow height?
- Does the backrest adjust sufficiently in height and depth to allow the user to gain support?
- Are armrests suitable for the task and workstation?
- Do the armrests allow the user to bring the chair far enough forward?
- Do the arm rests allow adeqaute arm movement?
- Are footrests required and if so, are they suitable?
- Are there special requirements for a chair at this particular workstation?
- Are there special user requirements? (see notes)
- Are there special task requirements?