Sit-stand desks: everything you need to know for an ergonomic workplace

A sit-stand desk is an essential part of a modern workplace. It promotes an active working posture by allowing you to alternate between sitting and standing. But what makes a sit-stand desk truly ergonomic? For that, we look at the official standards: NEN 527 and NPR 1813.

What are the NEN 527 and NPR 1813 standards?

The NEN 527 is a European standard (EN 527) that sets requirements for office desks. In the Netherlands, this is supplemented by the NPR 1813, a Dutch Practical Guideline. This practical guideline takes into account the body measurements of Dutch users, who are on average taller than in the rest of Europe.

Together, these guidelines form the basis for designing and selecting ergonomically sound desks, including sit-stand models.

All important specifications from the NEN and NPR standards

1. Worktop height adjustment

• NEN 527: minimum adjustable from 65 to 125 cm.
• NPR 1813: recommended 65 to 130 cm (suitable for sitting and standing).

2. Width of the worktop

• Minimum 120 cm (NEN), recommended 160 cm or more (NPR).

3. Depth of the worktop

• Minimum 80 cm according to NPR.

4. Lower legroom / free legroom

• Minimum 65 cm high, 58 cm deep, 85 cm wide.

5. Stability

• The desk should not wobble or bend under load, even at maximum height.

6. Load capacity

• Minimum 60 kg static load, preferably higher for professional use.

7. Adjustability

• Electrically adjustable is recommended for sit-stand applications. Motors must be reliable and quiet.

8. User-friendliness

• Memory settings and simple operation are more ergonomic.

9. Material and finish

• Matt surface to prevent reflection. Durable and easy to maintain.

10. Foot space

• At least 60 cm deep and 80 cm wide.

Quality differences in sit-stand desks

Not every sit-stand desk is the same. The quality of the frame, the motors and the load capacity play a major role. Cheaper models with a load capacity of 60-70 kg are often more unstable, especially at higher positions or when using multiple screens. They can wobble or slow down during adjustment.

The Douxe sit-stand desk is specially designed for stability and durability. Thanks to the robust steel frame and powerful motors, it is exceptionally sturdy, even at its fully extended height. The desk is suitable for intensive use and effortlessly supports multiple screens or accessories.

What should you look for when buying a sit-stand desk?

• Adjustment range (min. 65-130 cm)
• Stability and load-bearing capacity
• Size of the worktop (min. 120 x 80 cm)
• Unobstructed lower leg room
• Quality and lifespan of the engines
• User-friendly operation with memory function

Conclusion

A sit-stand desk is not a luxury, but an investment in health and productivity. Only desks that meet the full NEN 527 and NPR 1813 guidelines offer long-term ergonomic support. The electrically adjustable sit-stand desk from Douxe is an excellent example of this: stable, quiet, powerful and designed for daily intensive use.