Click on the workstation items below to see a set of guidelines to consider when purchasing that type of ergonomic equipment. If you are looking for a specific item and do not see it on this list, please contact the IT Accessibility Center at 573.884.2828.

Footstools

• Footstools are available in different heights.
• Footstools should be sturdy and wide enough for length of foot.

Document Holders

• Document holders are available in different sizes, magnification capability and in-line adjustment.
• Positioning options include: centered between the keyboard and the monitor, attached to the side of the monitor, or stand-alone on the desktop.
• Stand-alones should be sturdy and able to easily stand on the desk.

Telephones

• Use a wireless, hands-free headset for typing and talking at the same time.
• Telephone should include a speakerphone as well as adjustable volume features.
• Use a phone head/shoulder rest for neck support.

Monitors

• Monitors should have adjustable height and tilt.
• Low vision may require a larger monitor to view text at a larger size font.

Keyboards

• Keyboards are available in many shapes and sizes.
• Consider functions of the keyboard, such as the keypad (if you use one).
• Curved keyboards assist with a more natural hand position.
• Split keyboards can help with broader shoulders, injury, or frequent pain.
• Mini or smaller keyboards are good for minimal space on keyboard trays or desks.
• Wireless keyboards can be mobile and do not tether to the desk.
• Built-in wrist rests provide support from sharp desk edges and give comfort when not typing.

Keyboard Trays

• Keyboard trays should have adjustable features.
• Keyboard trays should click into the desired position for stability.
• Keyboard trays should click into the desired position for stability.
• Look for sturdiness of the tray; thin plastic may tend to bounce while typing.
• Make sure the tray is long enough for the keyboard and there is room to mouse.
• Make sure the tray is wide enough to fit larger size keyboards.
• One-piece trays offer a closer distance between keyboard and mouse and can also be used as desktops for writing.
• Consider how the keyboard tray is installed; tools-free ones tend to loosen over time.

Wrist Rests

• Wrist rests provide support from sharp desk edges and give comfort when not typing.
• Wrist rests are available in different types of material.

Mouse

• Mice are available in many shapes and sizes.
• Consider functions of the mouse, such as a scroll button.
• Upright and tilted mice provide a more natural hand position.
• Roller mice can help with shoulder pain or help petite individuals who need the mouse closer to the keyboard.
• Trackballs are stationary and discourage shoulder movement.
• Wireless keyboards can be mobile and do not tether to the desk.

Chair

• Type of chair should be determined based upon the type of work performed
• Chair should be adjustable in several areas (especially height, seat pan, and lumbar).
• Chair should be sturdy and able to roll in every direction.
• A five-point base provides sturdiness.
• Seat and back material should be breathable to maintain a good temperature throughout the day.
• Seat pan length depends on the length of the user’s legs.
• Determine seat pan length by placing three fingers between the front of the seat pan and the back of the knee.
• The front of the seat pan should be rounded for comfort.
• There should be enough hip room for comfort.
• Make sure the lumbar is firm and provides support where it is needed.
• Height is able to be adjusted to the height of the workstation.
• Taller individuals may prefer higher backed chairs for more neck and shoulder support.
• Headrests are available as added accessories to a chair.
• Armrests should be padded for comfort.
• Armrests should be adjustable in height and not collide with desk or work area.
• The tilt feature is beneficial for relaxation.

Desks

• The desk should easily fit a monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
• The desk should accommodate the height of the person when sitting in the chair.
• The work surface should be deep enough to hold a monitor at least an arm’s length away from the user.
• Do not use glass top work surfaces.
• The desk should have removable desk drawers.
• The keyboard should be approximately 1-2 inches above thigh area.
• Use desk space to store frequently used items or documents.
• There should be no sharp edges around the edge of or underneath the desk.
• There should be enough space underneath the desk for comfortable legroom.
• The chair space underneath should be wide enough to accommodate the elbow rests.

ADA Accessible Desk Guidelines: ADA Standards for Accessible Design:

• Between 28″ and 34″ above the floor for height
• 22″D minimum for leg space
• 27″H clearance for under table knee space*
• 60″ diameter required for turning/maneuvering
• Desks should tilt up or down, generally from 0 to 50 degrees
• 36″W minimum for aisle space

5% of tables in each classroom (minimum of one table per room) should meet these wheelchair guidelines.