Questions to Ask in a Virtual Ergonomics Assessment

As hybrid and remote work arrangements become the norm, employers are rethinking how they support their teams. One key area that demands attention is ergonomics-how people physically interact with their work environment. Poor setup leads to discomfort, fatigue, and ultimately, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) that affect productivity and wellbeing.

Enter the virtual ergonomics assessment-a practical, cost-effective way to identify and resolve issues in home or remote workspaces. But how do you ensure that the assessment is comprehensive and delivers long-term value? It starts with asking the right questions.

At Workplace Adjustments, we believe that thoughtful, human-focused inquiry is the foundation of effective ergonomic support. Below, we explore the most important questions to ask during a virtual ergonomics assessment-whether you’re an HR manager, a health & safety lead, or an employee looking to improve your home setup.

1. How do you currently work throughout the day?

Understanding a user’s working routine gives context to ergonomic risks. Do they work for long uninterrupted periods? Do they switch between tasks often? Are they taking regular breaks? This question helps highlight both behavioural and environmental risk factors.

It also uncovers patterns such as static postures, overuse of devices, or multitasking between screen and paperwork—all of which can be improved with the right equipment, like a height adjustable desk or document holder.

2. What kind of seating are you using?

Dining chairs and sofas might work short-term, but over time they can contribute to lower back pain, poor circulation, and postural strain. Assessors should ask:

• Does the chair offer lumbar support?
• Can the height, seat depth, and backrest be adjusted?
• Are the feet flat on the floor, or supported by a footrest?

If the current setup lacks these features, a switch to an ergonomic chair can significantly reduce strain and improve comfort.

3. Is your screen positioned correctly?

Neck and upper back discomfort are common complaints in home offices. The monitor (or laptop) should be at eye level and about an arm’s length away. If the screen is too low, users will crane their necks; too high, and they may strain their eyes and shoulders.

A laptop riser or monitor arm is often a simple fix-but the solution should be based on the user’s unique working habits.

4. What input devices are you using, and how are they positioned?

The size and shape of keyboards and mice matter, especially for users with smaller hands or existing conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. Key questions include:

• Are you using an external mouse and keyboard?
• Do your shoulders remain relaxed and elbows close to your body while typing or clicking?
• Are wrists supported and in a neutral position?

For many users, a vertical or sculpted ergonomic mouse paired with a compact keyboard makes a huge difference. These small tools offer a big return in terms of comfort and injury prevention.

5. Do you regularly refer to printed documents or secondary screens?

If the answer is yes, this often leads to repeated neck twisting or leaning forward-movements that seem harmless but quickly add up over the workday. A document holder positioned between the keyboard and monitor, or to one side at eye level, can eliminate this strain entirely.

6. Do you experience any physical discomfort during or after work?

This question goes beyond equipment-it taps into the user’s physical experience. Aches and pains are the body’s way of signalling that something needs to change. Whether it’s back pain from an unsupportive chair or shoulder tension from poor screen positioning, this information can guide targeted solutions.

7. What level of adjustability and movement do you have during your day?

Movement is essential to prevent fatigue and stiffness. Static posture is one of the most common causes of work-related discomfort. Height adjustable desks, which allow users to change posture throughout the day, are among the most effective tools for improving energy and musculoskeletal health.

Building Confidence with the Right Tools

A successful virtual ergonomics assessment isn’t just about identifying problems-it’s about empowering employees with practical, effective solutions. At Workplace Adjustments, we don’t offer a one-size-fits-all approach. We provide access to a carefully selected range of ergonomic chairs, height adjustable desks, ergonomic mice, and document holders designed to meet individual needs.

Our goal is to help people work in ways that support comfort, health, and performance-wherever they are.

As the workplace continues to evolve, so must our approach to wellbeing. Virtual ergonomics assessments offer a proactive, inclusive, and efficient way to support remote employees. But they’re only as good as the questions we ask.

By focusing on individual experience, physical feedback, and practical needs, we can create workspaces that truly work-for every employee, every day.