• Does the chair have a comfortable lumbar (lower back) back rest?
Many chairs have cushioned lumbar supports that can be adjusted up and down and forwards and
backwards to best fit your shape. If the chair will be used by multiple
users then this level of adjustment may be required. If the chair has a fixed height lumbar support
and it feels comfortable when you sit back against this, and you will be the primary user of the
chair then a fixed lumbar support may be acceptable. It is extremely important to keep the natural
“S” curvature of the spine aligned.
Is the range of height adjustment of the chair sufficient to meet the needs
of all users?
You should be able to adjust the height of the seat pan so that the front of your knees is level or
slightly below level and your feet are firmly on the ground. In most cases there should be no need
for you to use a footrest. The mechanism to adjust seat height should be easy to reach and operate
when you are
seated.
• Is the chair back rest large enough to provide good back support?
Many chairs have back supports that are large enough to provide mid-back and support, in addition
to good lumbar support.
support, in addition to good lumbar support.