Six Simple Things to Know About Workplace Ergonomics

Workplace ergonomics is necessary to remove barriers in the workplace that can affect productivity. Paying attention to ergonomics can make work more comfortable and keep your workforce safer.

It’s the satisfaction that your workforce is safe from hazards that may result in better company profits without the tension of compensation claims.

Thus, ergonomics should be seen as a value and introduced into every corporate culture daily.

As a matter of fact, ergonomics disorders like neck & back pain, Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) are the fastest-growing category of work-related illnesses. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has stated that about 56-63% of such illnesses are reported to OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration).

Since October celebrates National Ergonomics Month, now is a perfect time to promote the through corporate safety training programs.

Let’s get into some important statistics.

In a survey that examined nearly 700 office workers in the United States, about 64% knew the meaning of ‘ergonomics,’ and they preached the concept of workplace ergonomics.

About 81% of people believe that ergonomics can affect productivity, while 7% don’t feel the same. There is no enough information regarding workplace ergonomics.

This blog explains the importance of workplace ergonomics and how it helps in employee efficiency and productivity.

The key goal of ergonomics is to optimize the interaction between workers and their work, making it easier to perform a task. Workplace ergonomics and productivity goes hand-in-hand, irrespective of the age or type of work.

1. Stimulates perfect body postures

Every person is different; workplaces should have comfortable furniture that can accommodate every size and shape of employees.

Incorporating good ergonomics allows employees to work in their comfort zone. It helps in maintaining body posture that eliminates illnesses in the future.

Remember to follow this:

• Allow your feet to rest flat at 90 degrees.
• Sit in a balanced upright posture with your head over the shoulders.
• Adjust your chair height such that the hip is higher than the knee.
• Prevent slouching.

The right posture can make employees more productive and less tired.

2. Improves work quality

A well-balanced body and focused mind enables employees to work at optimum capacity, resulting in good work quality. When you invest in workplace ergonomics, your employees may experience less chronic health issues leading to absenteeism, an increased workload to the company.

Ergonomics lead to motivated workers who are willing to do their best. Make sure you provide them professional corporate safety training to enhance their quality of work.

3. Reduces work-related errors

Distracted or uncomfortable employees end up making simple errors that can be costly to the company.

In a manufacturing factory, even small errors in operating the machinery can lead to severe injuries, waste of raw materials, capital, and harm the quality of the products or services.

4. Enables to work quickly

Organizations that shell out money in workstation ergonomics like bringing in adjustable chairs and tables, proper keyboard & mouse configuration, ergonomic computer screens, portable footrest, headsets, document holder, appropriate temperature settings, etc. can benefit your employees.

All these things optimize body postures, reduce repetitive motions, and high force requirements.

5. Allows easy storage

You can’t afford to overlook the accessibility of your workplace peripherals, documents, and files.

It’s not a great idea ask your employees to help you grab important papers, files, or documents from the top or bottom filing cabinet on a regular basis.

This can take a toll on your employees’ mental and physical wellbeing. Create an ergonomically-friendly workplace that has enough cabinets and drawers to help you access things quickly.

6. Decreases retention rate

You need to show your employees that you care about them to make them feel valued. This way, they can accomplish challenging tasks and are more likely to stay on the job. This means higher retention and less time spent on searching and training new employees.

Stephen W. May LLC offers corporate safety training solutions designed to change the workplace’s safety culture, keeping in mind the importance of training and professional development. We strive hard to provide you unique training opportunities to secure the skill sets necessary for a safer and more productive working environment. Reach out to us today!