Ergonomics in the Workplace

Happy Spring! This month we will take a closer look at an overlooked aspect of working in an office. Ergonomics. What exactly does this mean? Prominent ergonomic principles include: Use of neutral posture, to avoid overwork of muscles/other tissues, use of proper handholds and proper gripping technique, and proper lifting/carrying/pushing/pulling procedures. Why is this important?

The goal of implementing ergonomics in workspaces is to improve the productivity, comfort, health, and wellness of employees.

Proper Ergonomics can reduce Employer costs in the workplace

• 59% average reduction of Musculoskeletal Disorders
• 65% average reduction in incidence rate
• 75% reduction in lost workdays

Ergonomics often improves the productivity in the office

The best ergonomic solutions will often improve productivity. By designing a job to allow for good posture, less exertion, fewer motions and better heights and reaches, the workstation becomes more efficient.

Remember:

Avoid twisting or bending your trunk or neck. Frequently used items should be positioned directly in front of you and angled upward when working. Keep your shoulders relaxed with your elbows close to your sides. Avoid resting your elbows on the hard surface or edge of your table or desk.

Ergonomics improves quality of work

Poor ergonomics can lead to frustrated and fatigued workers that don’t often do their best work. When the job task is too physically taxing on the worker, they may not perform their job like they were trained.

Ergonomics can improve Employee satisfaction

Employees do notice when the company is putting in effort to ensure their health and safety. If an employee does not experience fatigue and discomfort during their workday, it can reduce turnover, decrease absenteeism, improve morale and increase employee involvement.

• 48% average reduction in employee turnover
• 58% average reduction in employee absenteeism

Ergonomics can create a better safety Culture

Good Ergonomics shows your company’s commitment to safety and health. The cumulative effect of the benefits of ergonomics is a stronger safety culture for your company. Healthy employees being the most valuable asset a company can have.

Office environments are often quite sedentary with employees typing all day on their computer keyboards. The positioning of their desks, chairs, computer monitors and keyboards, and even lighting can negatively impact their body position—putting strain on muscles, tendons, nerves and bones. As a result, productivity can drop as employees find it more difficult to work or become fatigued more quickly.

To recap:

• Ergonomics reduces costs
• Ergonomics improves productivity
• Ergonomics improves quality
• Ergonomics creates a better safety culture

By Darla Henderson