Celebrating 40 years of Innovative Ergonomic Solutions

How does a manufacturing company founded by a mechanic and a furniture trim designer become a leading manufacturer of ergonomic furniture solutions? 

It’s a long story that winds through casket hardware, phonograph cabinets, Singer sewing tables, and Xerox copy machines. Over the years as our company has grown, the connecting thread has always been mechanical motion control.

As computers became more prevalent in offices, managers realized they needed workstation adjustability to accommodate staff and prevent injuries. Thus a branch of our company integrating our motion control expertise and addressing the need for innovative ergonomic solutions for OEM manufacturers was born.

Innovative Ergonomic Solutions | Pioneering Keyboard Ergonomics

Weber Knapp’s engineers have always loved a challenge – and we saw a significant opportunity when major OEM furniture manufacturer Herman Miller approached us in the early 80s to create a moving keyboard mechanism. 

This collaboration marked the beginning of our foray into the world of ergonomics, leading to the development of the very first ergonomic keyboard mechanism and tray set. 

Weber Knapp's familiarity with 3- and 4-bar design hinges and linkages became instrumental in developing high-end mechanical motion-controlled ergonomic solutions. 

These systems not only facilitated smooth up-and-down movements but also featured “gravity lock” mechanisms that held the desired position when released. 

Our engineering knowledge has proved invaluable in creating ergonomic products that provide optimal comfort and support for office workers.

Excellence in Ergonomic Engineering

By leveraging our expertise in design, testing, and manufacturing to ANSI BIFMA standards, our products continuously meet the highest quality standards.

We’ve consistently introduced new products to the market, catering to the demands of major OEMs. While we offer standard products that have been successful for years, we’re also a turn-key company capable of creating custom designs to meet specific requirements. 

Our customers rely on us as trusted partners who seamlessly integrate into their processes for: 

• Design engineering
• Testing
• Manufacturing

We take pride in serving as an extension of their teams, working closely to understand their unique needs and challenges.

We’re always striving to develop new solutions to:

• Enhance safety
• Improve user experience
• Optimize overall function
• Differentiate our customers' products in the market

See our process in action:

Leading the Field: Ergonomics & Motion Control

Our ergonomic designs are unique in the industry – they include mechanical speed controls to move equipment in a smooth, safe manner.

And while we’re still producing ergonomic keyboard trays, we’ve expanded our offerings beyond office furniture. We make solutions for all industries, from hospitality to ergonomics in healthcare. Our ergonomic accessories include:

• Keyboard trays, mouse trays, and accessories
• Monitor arms
• Computer holders/trolleys
• Book lifts
• Multi-monitor setups
• Blood draw armrests

Discover our ergonomic products:

Why is Ergonomics Important in the Workplace?

In case you forgot: Ergonomics focuses on creating a better fit between people and their work activities, taking into account their physical abilities, limitations, and requirements by optimizing the design and arrangement of:

• Work environments
• Tools
• Tasks

By applying ergonomic principles, employers make way for:

• Injury prevention: Ergonomic design aims to minimize the risk of workplace injuries by reducing awkward postures, repetitive motions, excessive force, and contact stress.
  
  
• Musculoskeletal health: Ergonomics seeks to prevent musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) by promoting proper body alignment, reducing strain on muscles and joints, and avoiding prolonged static positions.
  
  
• Increased efficiency: Well-designed workstations and tools enhance work efficiency by reducing unnecessary movements, optimizing workflow, and minimizing time wastage.
  
  
• Improved comfort: Ergonomic work environments prioritize comfort by providing suitable seating, adjustable workstations, proper lighting, and adequate temperature control.
  
  
• Enhanced productivity: When employees are comfortable and supported, they can focus better on their tasks, leading to increased productivity and better quality work output.
  
  
• Employee engagement & satisfaction: A workplace that prioritizes ergonomics demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being, leading to higher job satisfaction, engagement, and retention.
  
  

Overall, the purpose of ergonomics in the workplace is to create a conducive and healthy work environment that maximizes employee well-being, safety, and productivity while minimizing the risk of work-related injuries and health issues.

Our ergonomics blog covers the many benefits of and solutions for ergonomics across industries.

Your Trusted Innovative Ergonomic Solutions Supplier

If you’re looking for a reliable, longtime supplier of exceptionally durable, easy-to-adjust ergonomic office products, you’ve come to the right place. 

With 40 years of ergonomic engineering under our belts, Weber Knapp has a wealth of off-the-shelf options as well as the knowledge and experience to offer you turnkey solutions.

Need More Ergonomics Guidance?

Making informed decisions on ergonomics isn’t always easy. Download our free Manager’s Equipment Guide to get started: