Work Surface and Monitor Heights

Position your input devices at elbow height

1. Shoulders relaxed with upper arms hanging normally at the sides of your body.
2. Elbows bent at 90 degrees or in a more open angle.
3. Forearms in-line with wrists so that wrists are not bent up or down.

Adjust monitors slightly below eye height

4. Head remains upright and neutral, while eyes gaze slightly downwards

• Bifocal or progressive lenses may require lower heights.
• Monitor distance (18-30”) should allow comfortable viewing without forward leaning.

• Measure your elbow height to determine which height to change your desk to. 

• Refer to the Campus Office Ergonomics eCourse and Self-Evaluation for more information.

  

1. Adjust your chair: Chair Adjustment Job Aid
    
2. Sit deep into your chair with your hips at approximately the same height as your knees, with your feet supported on the floor.
    
3. Relax your shoulders and allow your arms to hang comfortably by your sides.
    
4. Bend your elbows approximately 90 degrees or in a more open angle, while keeping your hands in line with your forearms.
    
5. Measure the distance between the floor and your elbow (green line in photo). 
    
6. Select the closest desk height option that matches your elbow height. Many desks adjust in one-inch increments.
    
7. Test this height for comfort by using a keyboard tray or other surface set at the test height before placing the work order. If needed, ask your supervisor or a coworker to hold a notebook or other firm surface at the measured height.

To raise/lower your desk, contact your supervisor or UCSF Logistics to help you with this request. If you change your desk height, you may need to raise/lower your monitor in order to keep it slightly below eye height. For information about monitor risers, adjustable desks, and other equipment: Approved Equipment List