The guide to a healthy home workplace 2025

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.

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. .

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 .

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 ) .

We don't sell ergonomic office chairs ourselves. Fortunately, there are several websites where you can find NEN- and NPR-certified office chairs. Click the link and check whether the office chair meets one of these standards – see the options here.

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.

We have some good options from Logitech, these are mice that we recommend using because of the ergonomics, check out the options here - Logitech Lift and Logitech MX Vertical

5. Good lighting

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

Check out this link for desk lamps; they fit well on a monitor or at a sit-stand desk.

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 .

• 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.

A good office chair not only provides comfort but also prevents problems like back pain and neck strain. That's why it's important to adjust your office chair correctly. Below are some practical tips for optimally adjusting your chair for an ergonomic working posture:

• Seat height: Adjust the height so your feet are flat on the floor and your knees form an angle of about 90 degrees. This promotes good circulation and prevents fatigue in your legs.

• Backrest: Make sure the backrest supports your lower back properly. The curve of the backrest should sit perfectly in the hollow of your lower back, following your natural body curves.

• Armrests: Adjust the armrests so your shoulders stay relaxed and your arms can rest comfortably without being hunched over. They should be slightly higher than your desk to prevent tension in your neck and shoulders.

• Seat depth: Some office chairs allow you to adjust the seat depth. This helps determine the correct distance between the backrest and your knees, ensuring proper back support.

• Recline angle: Choose an angle that allows you to sit comfortably upright, but also lean back. Some chairs offer a recline function that allows you to alternate between sitting upright and leaning slightly back, which relieves back strain.

These settings help you create a comfortable balance between support and comfort, allowing you to work more productively and healthily. Try adjusting the settings again after a few hours of use to see what works best for you.

These tips will complete your choice of an ergonomic office chair and help you take full advantage of its benefits.