Independent Living Centres Australia Inc
infoline: 1300 885 886
web: www.ilcaustralia.org


DISCLAIMER:
The Independent Living Centres Australia Inc does not sell this equipment, but provides this information as a community service. Details and prices are provided by the equipment supplier and are subject to change without notice. The provision of this information does not constitute a recommendation. Responsibility for final selection of any item rests with the individual.

Buyers Guide: Computer Workstations

ILC Reference NO 64:06:901
Item sourced from ILC VIC database

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Short Description
Computer workstations should be set up to promote and maintain correct postural alignment when working, studying or playing.


Factors to Consider
Points to Consider when Selecting a Computer Workstation:
Australian Standards AS 3590 1990 parts 1 and 2 and AS/NZS 4443 1997 offer guidelines regarding the design and setup of computer workstations.
Desktop height. Consider height of user. May be fixed or adjustable. Consider method of adjustment, for example, unscrewing components, gas assist, electrical operation, or winding a handle. If necessary ensure that this can be managed easily by the user. Consider multiple users.
Desktop width and depth. Consider task requirements and user's reach. May incorporate drop down side flaps.
Material. Consider durability, for example, resistance to scratching and staining. Consider slip resistant properties of surface material? Is an glare reduced surface required? Ensure the absence of sharp edges.
Stability / Portability. Consider glides or castors if movement of the workstation is required.
Storage. Mobile or fixed drawer units? Is there a need for a modular system incorporating drawers and shelves that can be altered in the future?
Type of base. Consider amount of space available under desk for a person's legs or wheelchair.
Document holder. Consider position and method of adjustment. The position should minimise bending, twisting and rotation of the body and head and allow the documents to be easily manipulated. Holders may be attached on a flexible arm to the right or left of the computer screen, on the desk, or between the screen and keyboard.

Keyboard
To prevent unnecessary strain on the wrist and elbow joints, the forearms should be close to horizontal and the hands in line with the forearms. Wrists should be in a neutral position.
Adjustable keyboard platforms can be integrated into the desk or clipped onto the desktop as an extension. Platforms are recommended for multiple user workstations and when the desk is too high to attain correct forearm placement for typing. It is recommended that the mouse be situated next to the keyboard on the platform.
Keyboard wrist rests are available in foam or gel and may reduce pressure on wrist.

Mouse
Position. The mouse should be controlled at a close distance from the body.
Size. A slimline low profile mouse is preferred for constant use. A large mouse is difficult to manipulate and keeps the wrist in an extended position.
Mouse wrist rest. May be sheepskin, foam or gel material. May reduce pressure on wrist.

Computer Screen
Height. When looking straight ahead, the top of the computer screen should be just below eye level. This will prevent unnecessary bending and rotation of the neck.
Distance from user. Should be at an arms length to prevent eye strain.
Monitor stand. May be used to help attain correct position. Stands may be height and angle adjustable, standard or swing away.


Maintenance
Refer to the supplier and manufacturer manual for maintenance instructions and safety warnings.



Standards
Some assistive technology needs to meet Australian or other standards. Standards may relate to materials, manufacturing and installation. Products that meet Australian or international standards will have written certification. To find out if a product meets Australian Standards ask the supplier to show you the certificate. For a fact sheet about standards contact us or visit www.ilcaustralia.org/home/standards.asp.




Price Guide
Refer to supplier details for pricing.




Supplier Information
Name:  Backcare and Seating (Brighton)
Price:  POA
Address:
  501-503 Nepean Highway
  Brighton
  Vic  

Phone:   (03) 9591 6200
FAX:  (03) 9591 6292
Email:   brighton@backcare.com.au
Website:  www.backcare.com.au
Notes:
  Display open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm.
   Display open Saturday 9am to 12noon.
  


Name:  Backcare and Seating (Carlton)
Price:  POA
Address:
  503 Nicholson Street
  Carlton
  VIC  3054

Postal Address:
  503 Nicholson Street
  Carlton
  VIC  3054

Phone:   (03) 9349 1757
FAX:  (03) 9349 4949
Email:   carlton@backcare.com.au
Website:  www.backcare.com.au

Name:  Bunnings Warehouse
Price:  POA
Address:
  State Office
  16-18 Cato St
  Hawthorn East
  VIC  3123

Phone:   (03) 8831 9777
Email:   merchandiseplanner@bunningvic.com.au
Website:  www.bunnings.com.au

Name:  Data Decor Interiors Pty Ltd
Price:  POA
Address:
  Ground Floor
  88 Ricketts Rd
  Mount Waverley
  VIC  3149

Phone:   (03) 9558 6027
Email:   info@datadecor.com.au
Website:  www.datadecor.com.au

Name:  IG Office Ergonomics
Price:  POA
Address:
  113 Moray Street
  South Melbourne
    3205

Postal Address:
  PO Box 463
  South Melbourne
    3205

Phone:   (03) 9699 5188
FAX:  (03) 9696 2142
Email:   sales@igstationery.com.au
Website:  http://www.igergonomics.com.au/

Name:  Rosier Commercial Furniture
Price:  POA
Address:
  10 - 16 Queen Street
  Melbourne
  VIC  3000

Phone:   (03) 9614 0088
FAX:  (03) 9614 0744
Website:  www.rosiercommercialfurniture.com.au/

Name:  Sylex Ergonomics
Price:  POA
Address:
  27 MacBeth St
  Braeside
  VIC  3195

Phone:   (03) 9587 8628
FAX:  (03) 9587 8691
Email:   steveberryman@sylexergonomics.com
Website:  www.sylexergonomics.com


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