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: Childrens Desks

ILC Reference NO 64:07:900
Item sourced from ILC VIC database

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Short Description
Children's office desks should be set up to promote and maintain correct postural alignment when studying or playing.

Factors to Consider
Height - consider the height of the child and if other people will use the desk. If feet do not touch the floor, use a footrest to ensure correct posture.
Depth / Width - consider the requirements of the task and the user's reach.
When sitting at the desk the forearms should be parallel with the floor or angled slightly downwards. To achieve this position the desk can be lowered or the chair raised.
Controls and materials should be placed within comfortable reach of both hands without moving the trunk. This will prevent any unnecessary twisting of the body.
Material - consider durability, eg. resistance to scratching and staining. Consider non-slip properties of surface material? Is an anti-glare surface required? Ensure the absence of sharp edges.
Angle - consider needs of user and the demands of task. If a person is reading for more than one hour per day and experiences neck or back pain it may be useful to trial an angle adjustable desktop or a portable work surface. This may also be useful for children who have difficulty bending forward for prolonged periods, or difficulty holding documents.
Stability / Portability - glides or castors?
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.
Height adjustment mechanism - this may be operated by unscrewing components, gas assist, electrical operation, or by winding a handle. Ensure this can be managed easily by the user(s).
A desk with a cutout section may assist some users to maintain a balanced posture. This may also be useful for users with limited reach.



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:  Disabled Equipment Solutions
Price:  POA
Address:
  1 Sinnott Street
  Burwood
  VIC  3125

Phone:   (03) 9808 5448
FAX:  (03) 9808 5219
Email:   david.hattam@bigpond.com
Website:  www.e-bility.com/des

Name:  FAS Therapeutic Equipment Pty Ltd
Price:  POA
Address:
  6 Bate Drive
  Braeside
  VIC  3195

Postal Address:
  PO Box 840
  Braeside
  VIC  3195

Phone:   (03) 9587 6766
FAX:  (03) 9587 6899
Toll Free:  1300 303 536
Email:   sales@fasequipment.com
Website:  www.fasequipment.com
Notes:
  Showroom operates 9:00 - 5:00 Monday - Friday.
   Equipment usually held in stock - minimal delivery period.
   Cost of delivery POA.


Name:  Sebel
Price:  POA
Address:
  29-31 Rathdowne St
  Carlton
  VIC  3053

Phone:   (03) 9654 9111
FAX:  (03) 9654 9911
Email:   gclarke@sebel.com.au
Website:  www.sebelfurniture.com


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