Should high-tech seating be evaluated for both its ergonomic values and its merits in controlling contamination?
Yes, but ergonomics may conflict with air cleanliness and static control issues. Sacrifices may be required in one area or the other to select the best seating for an application. As an example of ergonomics vs. cleanliness, a slightly forward seat tilt, opens up the angle between a seated individuals hips and torso benefit in terms of lumbar curvature. However, a worker in cleanroom gown, who sits in a vinyl chair and tilts the seat forward, may slide forward along with it, generating particles into the environment. This combined slipperiness of vinyl and gown material can be counteracted by a chair seat with a slight backward tilt, by applying anti-slip strips, or by using a footrest for added support.
Controls for adjustability are another example. Whereas ergonomic controls enable a seated individual to adjust the seat and/or backrest, they also can generate particles. One choice for both adjustability and cleanliness is a cleanroom chair with its control covered by a pan and sealed with neoprene rubber and non-outgassing tape.
