How to Set Up your Computer Monitor

VelocityEHS Ergonomist Ryan Cowart offers four tips on how to properly set up your office computer monitor.

Video Transcript

Jennifer: Hi, I’m Jennifer, and this is Ryan, our certified ergonomist with Humantech (now VelocityEHS Ergonomics). One of the most common things that is set up incorrectly in the office workstation is the monitor. Ryan, can you make sure my monitor is set up correctly?

Ryan: Sure, no problem.

Jennifer: Great, thanks.

Ryan: So, make sure we’re close to our workstation, okay? So, the first thing I look at is making sure that the computer monitor is at or below the vertical height of where your eyes are whenever you’re seated. It seems a bit high to me. So, let’s go ahead and take away the TV stand or the monitor stand.

Number two is going to be to make sure that the monitor is within your optimal viewing distance. So fully extend your arm, relax, don’t overextend. The monitor should be ideally right at the end of your fingertips. It’s a bit far away.

The third aspect of a computer monitor workstation would be to make sure that the monitor is angled downwards, so it reduces overhead glare.

The fourth and final aspect would be to make sure that the computer monitor is close to you and in the center of your vision, so it’s not off to the side. Oftentimes, I see that, and employees have discomfort in their shoulders or their neck. It looks pretty good to me. What do you think, Jennifer?

Jennifer: Much better. Thanks.

Ryan: No problem.

Jennifer: Have a great day.