From theory to practice: Implementing ergonomics for a Productive work culture
We often don’t associate an office with being an unsafe environment. However, office work has the potential to quietly present a significant risk of musculoskeletal discomforts (MSDs) due to repetitive actions, prolonged periods of sitting, adopting awkward postures, experiencing eye strain, and dealing with discomfort from extended screen time.
The concept of workplace ergonomics aims to identify repetitive behaviors and motions or positions that lead to musculoskeletal discomfort and other health issues, including eye strain, headaches, and more. Today, office ergonomics also emphasizes promoting movement throughout the day and reducing the adverse effects of prolonged sedentary work. Organizations can implement specific measures to establish effective workplace ergonomics.
Let’s see the advantages of embracing an Ergonomic Work Culture.
- Conducting ergonomic workplace assessments
Prior to introducing any ergonomic initiatives, it is crucial for every organization to carry out an ergonomic assessment of the workspace. A workplace ergonomic assessment can help to identify critical areas of improvements, including types of ergonomic improvements that would help in specific worker roles. This approach fosters a culture that values employee welfare and can lead to a more engaged and satisfied workforce.
- Opting for appropriate office furniture and equipment
Once we have identified the risks for specific group of employees, we can begin looking for solutions to improve their work behaviors. Consider ergonomic office furniture like standing desks, chairs that promote a neutral posture, or monitor risers that keep the head and neck aligned and prevent straining. Ergonomic equipment for the office also includes products like LED lighting, a computer mouse that fits the shape of the hand, and keyboard that’s curved or split to accommodate relaxed shoulders and arms.
- Creating an ergonomic workplace
It’s essential to design a workstation that accommodates the type of work an employee spends most of their time doing. The workstation should promote good sitting posture, comfort, and concentration on computer work. The ideal workstation is set up so that everything that’s needed is within arm’s reach to prevent repetitive reaching and straining across or away from the body.
Ergonomic workstations must be designed for each individual worker and their body proportions, including their heights. The more office furniture can be adjusted, the better can be adapted to each person. Smaller or shorter people need to be able to raise their chair height, while taller people benefit from being able to raise their computer monitors. Additional adjustments like lumber support or footrest can help address specific types of conditions such as low back pain. Moreover, adjustable standing desks, also known as sit-stand desks, are a way to encourage workers to stand more throughout the day, which helps boost circulation and alleviate compression in the low back.
- Addressing environmental ergonomics
Consider how the workplace environment and ergonomics are connected. Ergonomics extends beyond office furniture and computer equipment to how the surrounding office environment is designed. Light, sound, and air quality are critical to comfort. Lighting should replicate daylight and maximize natural light. Workplaces should also try to reduce the amount of noise pollution, echoes, and other disruptive sounds by having proper acoustic insulation. Adequate ventilation and ample fresh air are also important as well.
- Encouraging movement breaks
When developing an organization’s wellness policy, be aware of the link between workplace posture and ergonomics. Encouraging movement breaks can help reverse some of the posture problems related to prolonged sitting, like hunching and slouching. During movement breaks, workers are encouraged to do certain stretches to help lengthen the muscles in the back, shoulders, neck, and chest to reduce eye strain and headaches.
- Fostering a culture of ergonomic consciousness
This involves initiating comprehensive educational initiatives aimed at enhancing employees’ understanding of the significance of proper ergonomics in their daily tasks. By disseminating information about the potential risks associated with poor ergonomic practices and numerous benefits of adopting ergonomic principles, organizations empower their workforce to make informed choices. This awareness not only aids in preventing discomfort and injuries but also the organization’s commitment to fostering a safe, supportive, and health- oriented work environment.
By improving workplace ergonomics, organizations demonstrate that they prioritize worker well-being. A healthy working environment is one of the pillars of employee wellness, and improving workplace ergonomics can help workers thrive in their roles.
