Opting for an ergonomic workstation? Take these standards into account.

During your search for ergonomic furniture, terms like NEN EN 527, EN 1335, or NPR 1813 soon pop up. They sound technical, and they are, but they have a clear function. They help you recognise ergonomic office chairs and sit-stand desks. Only what do those combinations of numbers and letters mean? And how important are they in your office design? We’ve listed them for you in this blog.

What do the standards on office furniture stipulate?

Standards for office chairs and desks, such as EN 1335 and EN 527, lay down the requirements furniture must meet to enable ergonomic and safe working. Consider dimensions, stability, adjustability, and ease of use. These include whether an office chair is sufficiently adjustable for different body types, or whether a desk leaves enough legroom.

This is how standards help you comply with the law

The Codex on Well-being at Work was tightened regarding ergonomics in 2024. A risk assessment is mandatory for any new or modified workplace, and ergonomic principles must be taken into account when setting it up. The Dutch Working Conditions Decree also stresses that workplaces must be ergonomically designed. But what makes a desk or office chair ergonomic?

Although the standards around ergonomic office furniture are not an explicit legal obligation per se, they provide a useful frame of reference. When you choose furniture that meets these standards, you demonstrate that you take ergonomic risks seriously and design your office with a healthy work posture in mind.

Key standards at a glance

• EN 1335 specifies ergonomic and dimensional requirements for office chairs. Among other things, it assesses the chair’s adjustability. Consider the height, backrest, and armrests. The standard is divided into four classes (A, Ax, B, and C), with class A and Ax (more suitable for smaller people) being most suitable for long-term use and a wide range of users.
  
  
• EN 527 defines the dimensions and functional requirements for work tables. Important criteria include worktop height, legroom, stability, and strength. Furthermore, it takes adjustability into account so that tables can accommodate different users and working postures.
  
  
• NPR 1813 complements the above standards. This guideline takes into account a wider user base. Thus, a chair with this standard is often suitable for smaller employees as well as people over 190 cm. NPR 1813 therefore sets stricter requirements for adjustability, such as a greater range in seat depth and seat height.

EN, NBN, NPR: what’s the difference?

• EN standards are European guidelines where they look at the average European as a starting point.
  
  
• NBN or NEN are the national translations of the European standard (Belgian/Dutch).
  
  
• NPR are complementary and take into account that Dutch people are taller on average. This is why they often suggest wider adjustment options for office chairs and tables.

Don’t lose sight of reality

Standards are a good starting point, but they do not tell everything. What works well for one employee may not be as suitable for another. It depends on several factors, such as the nature of your work, how long you spend at your workplace, but also your physique. A suitable workplace is thus always the result of a combination of needs, tasks, and preferences. Therefore, always test some models in practice and ask for feedback from your employees.

At Pami, we are happy to help you find that right combination. Our own (sit-stand) desks are designed in line with European standards. For ergonomic office chairs, we work with partners such as Flokk, Viasit, and Wilkhahn. So we offer solutions to suit different body types, working styles, and preferences. And you’re certain to get furnishings that actually work in reality.

Need help with your office design?

Do you want workstations that are both ergonomically sound and tailored to your team? Our experts are happy to join forces with you. Feel free to contact us.