Who is entitled to a height-adjustable desk?

With the introduction of working from home and flexible working hours, the demand for ergonomic workplace solutions has also increased. One of these solutions is the height-adjustable desk.

But what exactly is a height-adjustable desk and who is entitled to one? What is the legal situation in Germany?

• Height-adjustable desks are designed to adapt to the height and working position of the user in order to create an ergonomic working environment.
• Various factors such as health conditions, work requirements and legal regulations can influence the requirement for a height-adjustable desk.

In this blog post, we will dive deeper into these topics and provide a comprehensive overview.

Height-adjustable desks and their advantages

Height-adjustable des ks are more than just a trend; they are a valuable ergonomic solution for modern workplaces. They offer a range of benefits that can improve both your health and your productivity.

• Health and ergonomics : By allowing you to change your working posture regularly, height-adjustable desks can help to reduce postural problems and health complaints such as back pain, neck pain and eyestrain.
• Flexibility and comfort: You can adjust the height of the desk to suit your individual needs, whether you want to stand or sit. This is particularly useful if several people use the same workstation.
• Increased productivity : There are studies that suggest that the ability to work standing up can increase productivity and creativity. It can also help combat afternoon fatigue.
• Adaptability : Height-adjustable desks are available in a variety of designs and sizes and can be customised to suit different working environments, from small home offices to large corporate offices.

Your right to comfort: The legal right to height-adjustable desks

There are many benefits to using a height-adjustable desk, from health to productivity improvements. But who is actually legally entitled to such a desk?

• Occupational Health and Safety Act and Workplace Ordinance: According to the Occupational Health and Safety Act and the Workplace Ordinance, employers must organise working conditions in such a way that they are conducive to the health of employees. Height-adjustable desks can contribute to this because they enable a healthier posture.
• Individual entitlement: There are no direct legal provisions that guarantee every employee the right to a height-adjustable desk. However, an entitlement may arise under certain circumstances, for example to prevent or alleviate health complaints. Accordingly, there must be a valid justification for a height-adjustable desk.
• Influence of the employers' liability insurance associations: These can also make recommendations for workplace equipment and promote height-adjustable desks. However, compliance with these recommendations is generally not legally binding.
• Health reasons: If an employee requires a height-adjustable desk for health reasons, this can be certified by a medical certificate. In such cases, employers may be obliged to provide these.

LinearDirect - your partner for ergonomic workplace solutions

Height-adjustable desks can be a significant improvement for your workplace. But where can you find the right solution for your individual needs? This is where LinearDirect comes into play.

As an experienced supplier of industrial components and adjustable desk frames, we can help you find the best solution for your needs.

FAQ

Are height-adjustable desks mandatory?

Not generally, but there are specific situations where employers are obliged to provide them. This may be for health reasons or due to certain work requirements.

Can a doctor issue a certificate for a height-adjustable desk?

Yes, doctors can issue a certificate if there are medical reasons that justify the need for a height-adjustable desk. This certificate can be helpful when applying for such desks.

Can I apply for a height-adjustable desk through my health insurance provider?

This is possible in certain cases. With a medical certificate, you can apply to your health insurance company to have the costs of a height-adjustable desk covered.