Environmental Health & Safety

Introduction to Seating Options: Products, Features, and Costs

Task seating will vary significantly in cost and performance. Features that improve comfort, effectiveness, durability and longevity of a chair will generally increase the price. Many companies offer sub-task seating as well, so it is important to make sure that a chair meets the minimum requirements to provide the proper posture support. Most chairs have a basic warranty which covers years of service. Checking for a warranty is recommended before making a purchase.

This section is not intended to endorse any specific products, though to help departments and employees understand options that can be used to satisfy the needs of an individual. Chairs listed here are an example of the products which are available. It is important to note that most of these manufacturers offer a range of products which spans beyond what is indicated here. Furthermore, many products not listed on this page are equally effective; additional brands may be recommended by local vendors.

Prices reflect discounts available to PSU. Products not listed here are likely to have similar discounts.

Budget Task Seating (Less than $300 per chair) These include adjustable seat pan tilt and backrest angles though proper fit needs to be ensured.  Different product lines may be selected to match the needs of an individual. Sometimes, these chairs will have smaller seat pan sizes which may benefit individuals who have smaller dimensions.		Office Master	Office Star
Standard Task Seating ($300 to $400 per chair) These include adjustable seat pan tilt and backrest angles though proper fit needs to be ensured.  Different product lines may be selected to match the needs of an individual. Chairs with additional features may also be available.
Allsteel	Global	HON	SitOnIt
Custom Fit Task Seating ($350 - $500+ per chair) These chairs consist of modular systems that can be factory built to fit the needs of the individual. They are a cost-effective solution that will work well for most operators.   For a standard system, the seat pan, backrest, and cylinder size are selected based on the parameters of the individual. Additional features may be further selected to meet personal preferences or specific or medical needs.  These chairs can usually be retrofitted or upgraded later on. These chairs are usually the recommended solution for individuals who have a standing knee height of twenty-four inches or greater.
ADI		RFM
Advanced Task Seating ($700 - $800 per chair) Several manufacturers have developed chairs which rely on passive adjustments and incorporate advanced features for pressure distribution, thermal distribution, and posture support to keep the operator comfortable. These chairs pivot with the body to maintain constant support throughout their full range of motion and allow the operator to frequently change their posture without having to manipulate controls. It is important to note that these manufacturers offer traditional task seating as well.
Allsteel "Sum"	Herman Miller "Mirra" and "Aeron"	Humanscale "Freedom"	Steelcase "Leap"
High-End Custom Fit Task Seating ($800 - $1000+ per chair) This is the same as custom-fit seating though these chairs usually include superior construction and materials. They are very comfortable though they are generally not seen as necessary to avoid discomforting levels of strain; thus, they are considered to be a luxury unless deemed necessary to accommodate special or medical needs.
Ergogenesis		Neutral Posture