De gids voor een gezonde thuiswerkplek 2025 - Douxe

The guide to a healthy home workplace 2025

Time to read 3 min

Table of contents

Why is ergonomic working from home so important? Basic principles of an ergonomic home workplace Essential ergonomic tools for working from home Setting up according to Dutch NEN & NPR standards Practical tips for more exercise while working from home Frequently asked questions about ergonomic working from home

More and more people are working (partly) from home. It's therefore essential to work as ergonomically as you would in the office. This ultimate guide explains everything you need to know about setting up an ergonomic home workspace according to official Dutch standards. Discover which ergonomic aids you need and prevent problems like neck and back pain, eye strain, and RSI.

Why is ergonomic working at home so important?

Working from home sounds comfortable, but without a good workstation, physical complaints quickly arise. Common problems include back and neck pain, wrist strain, eye strain, reduced concentration, and repetitive strain injuries (RSI). An ergonomic home workstation reduces the risk of health problems and increases productivity. .

Basic principles of an ergonomic home workplace

A good, ergonomic home workspace meets at least these basic rules:

You sit upright with your feet flat on the floor.
Your knees are at a 90-degree angle.
Your forearms rest relaxed at a 90-degree angle on the desk.
The screen is at eye level and at arm’s length.
Change your posture regularly, for example by using a sit-stand desk.
Ensure there is sufficient natural light or adjustable lighting near your workstation .

Essential ergonomic tools for working from home

1. Ergonomic office chair

Height adjustable and equipped with lumbar support.
Armrests that can be adjusted to the correct height according to NEN standards ( NEN 1335/NPR 1813 ) .

2. Sit-stand desk

Alternating between sitting and standing prevents overload.
Height adjustable, preferably between 65-130 cm according to NPR 1813 .

View all Douxe sit-stand desks .

3. Monitor arm or laptop stand

Screen at eye level prevents bent neck and curved back.
Use a separate keyboard and mouse with a laptop for a natural working position.

View all monitor arms or laptop stands from Douxe.

4. External keyboard and mouse

Wrists are in a neutral (straight) position.
Prevents excessive strain on shoulders and arms.

5. Good lighting

Natural daylight or a lamp with adjustable light intensity.
Prevents tired eyes and increases comfort.

Furnishing according to Dutch NEN & NPR standards

According to the Working Conditions Decree and the Arbowet (Arbo Act), a home workplace must be ergonomically sound. Important standards are :

NEN 527 & NPR 1813 : Height adjustment of desks from 65 to 130 cm, worktop at least 80 cm deep.
Free legroom under the desk: 65 cm high, 58 cm deep, 85 cm wide (according to NPR 1813 ).
Office chair according to NEN 1335 : seat height, seat depth, backrest and armrests must be adjustable.

Employers are obliged to provide an ergonomic workplace when you work from home on a regular basis, and this can be inspected by the Dutch Labour Inspectorate .

Practical tips to move more while working from home

Set a timer every half hour to get up.
Use a sit-stand desk for regular variation.
Walk around during phone calls and online meetings.
Do simple stretching or relaxation exercises in between.

Frequently asked questions about ergonomic working from home

What if my employer doesn't make any arrangements?

Both employer and employee are responsible for a safe and healthy home workplace Check if there is a scheme for reimbursement or delivery of ergonomic aids.

Can I be fined if my workplace does not comply?

Employers can receive a fine or a warning from the Labour Inspectorate if the home workplace does not comply with the law and there are health risks. .

How do you properly adjust your office chair for working from home?

An ergonomic office chair should be height-adjustable, with adjustable armrests and adequate lumbar support. Your feet should be flat on the floor, your knees at a 90-degree angle, and your forearms relaxed on the desk.

Why is a sit-stand desk recommended when working from home?

A sit-stand desk encourages a shift between sitting and standing. This helps prevent complaints like back pain and increases productivity. The desk should preferably meet NPR 1813 standards (65-130 cm adjustable).

What is the ideal working posture when working from home?

Sit upright with your back against the backrest, your feet flat on the floor, the screen at eye level, and your wrists relaxed. Change your posture regularly and take short, active breaks.

How can you work ergonomically from home with limited resources?

Don't have ergonomic furniture? Use a table with a thin top and a chair at the right height, along with a footrest and laptop stand. Make sure your shoulders are relaxed and your arms can rest on the table.

What are some practical tips for working healthily from home?

Take at least a two-minute break every 30 minutes, move regularly, alternate between sitting and standing during the day, and ensure good air quality and temperature in your workplace.