Using a tilted light table as part of your job means you are spending hours sitting or standing at it. A good light table for drawing or drafting should have proper ergonomics to protect spine health. It should have a table top with an adjustable tilt. Ideally, the height of the table should be adjustable as well. For eye protection, lights that are dimmable are also important.
Proper Table Tilt
Whether using a tilted light desk for your job or a hobby, being able to adjust the tilt of the table is important for your comfort. A 45-degree angle is the most beneficial tilt. This puts the least amount of strain on the neck. However, occasionally changing the angle of the tilt can be good as well. Shifting the angle as you feel the need to can prevent fatigue in the shoulders, back and neck muscles. This is why choosing a table with an adjustable tilt is important.
Proper Table Height
The height of a light table for drawing is also important for spine health and comfort. The height of the table should be adjusted so that the head is facing front or slightly looking down. If you think you might want to use your light table for drafting in a standing position, it’s important to find a table that can be adjusted to that height.
Proper Foot Placement
While sitting, it is also beneficial to have a surface to rest your feet on. This will put less stress on the spine and hips. If the table cannot be adjusted down far enough for your feet to rest on the ground, be sure to place a footstool under the desk. If you like to stand at your desk sometimes and sit at other times, it might be a good idea to leave the height of the table at standing height and use a chair that can be adjusted to that height. This way the table doesn’t have to constantly be readjusted between standing and sitting heights. Just be sure to remember to have proper foot support while sitting on a higher chair.
Proper Eye Protection
The ability to dim the lights in a light table for drawing is beneficial. It helps you see your work in various light levels, and it also can reduce strain on your eyes. Being able to adjust the light level down will let you work longer without eye fatigue. If the light table you are thinking of buying doesn’t have this feature, it is also possible to protect your eyes from fatigue and strain using protective tinted eyewear. Protective glasses can also be used in addition to dimmed lighting for ultimate eye safety.
A light table for drafting or drawing is a great investment in your health if you spend a lot of time drafting, drawing or doing cartography. It will keep your body in an upright position instead of hunched over. The proper tilt for the table top, height of the table and height of your chair will help you work more efficiently and with less fatigue. Dimmable lights in your table will help avoid eye strain. The proper adjustments in your daily work area will help prevent repetitive stress injuries in the future and ensure comfort in the present.