[Decision guide]
What this article will help you decide
HR, labor protection, purchasing and employees who test furniture
create a short list of models depending on the duration of operation, user growth and intensity of use
Do not approve a lot based on a photo: check the adjustments, fit, load capacity, materials and warranty of the specific model
What mechanisms are found in office chairs?
A simple mechanism changes height and sometimes allows free swing. The multiblock adds backrest fixation in several positions. The synchronized mechanism changes the angle of the backrest and seat in concert, supporting the user's movement and reducing the need to manually adjust the chair.
The name of the mechanism does not guarantee the same kinematics. Range, smoothness, the ability to adjust resistance to the user's weight, and safe return of the backrest are important.
- gas lift - height adjustment;
- swing - changing the angle of the body;
- multiblock - several fixation points;
- synchro mechanism - coordinated movement of the back and seat;
- automatic setting - resistance based on user weight.
What adjustments are needed for a full working day?
The height of the seat should allow you to rest your feet and work with relaxed shoulders. The depth should not put pressure on the area under the knees. The lumbar support should fit into the curve of the lower back, and the armrests should support the forearms without interfering with moving the chair towards the table.
OSHA recommends that the chair be evaluated along with the work surface. Even a good chair will not correct a table that is too high or a monitor installed on the side.
How to test a mechanism before purchasing?
Check the chair in a working position and in motion: reach for the mouse, lean back, return, drive up to the table. The back should support the body without a sharp push, and the armrests should not collide with the tabletop. For corporate purchasing, invite users of different heights and builds.
Check the permissible load, test life, warranty for the mechanism, gas lift and upholstery. BIFMA publishes separate test standards for office chairs; compliance with a specific model is confirmed by the supplier’s documents, and not by the general logo in the presentation.
How to choose chairs for different areas of the office?
An eight-hour desk chair requires a greater range of adjustments than a visitor chair or conference room chair. In the manager's office, adjustment is also important, even if the appearance is more representative. Hot desks benefit from simple, quick-to-read settings.
You can compare models at PoMo seat categories and in the showroom. For a large order, conduct a pilot on several workstations.
Sources and useful materials
- PoMo office chairs
- OSHA: Computer Workplace Guidelines
- ISO 24496:2021: Methods for sizing office chairs
- BIFMA: description of standards for office furniture
Frequently asked questions
What is a synchro mechanism?
This is a mechanism that coordinately changes the angles of the backrest and seat as the user reclines.
Does the backrest need to be fixed in many positions?
Not everyone. What is more important is comfortable free movement, suitable resistance and at least one comfortable working position.
How do you know if the seat depth is right?
The back should rest on the backrest, and the front edge of the seat should not put pressure under the knees.
Is it possible to choose one chair for all employees?
One model can cover a wide range of users if it has sufficient adjustments, but it still needs to be tested on different people.
A low-commitment first step
Shortlist chairs for testing and pricing
Send us the number of users, shift duration, height range, adjustment requirements and desired time frame. During working hours, the team will clarify the missing data and prepare a selection of suitable models and a test script before purchasing.
- 01
You share the project details number of users, shift duration, height range, adjustment requirements and desired period.
- 02
We review the brief We clarify the restrictions, availability and scope of work.
- 03
You receive a clear next step selection of suitable models and testing scenario before purchasing.