The term ‘ergonomics’ has gained significant traction in recent years and has had a profound influence on workplace design. In today’s fast-paced world of technology and long working days, the importance of a well-designed workplace is on the rise.
Ergonomics in not just about aesthetics, but about creating a healthy, productive and harmonious working environment. It’s all about supporting the well-being of employees. Research has shown that ergonomics can reduce company costs as well as improve employee productivity and engagement.
Having an ergonomic workspace at home is also important as remote working has become the new reality for many employees.
Whether you’re a business owner or just wanting to set up your own office at home, our blog will provide you with some benefits and ideas on setting up an ergonomic workspace.
Ergonomics Goes Beyond Comfort
Ergonomics is an applied science which is more than just comfortable chairs and adjustable desks. Ergonomics helps to improve comfort, productivity and wellness in the work-place.
The strategic design and placement of furniture and equipment is aimed at reducing stress, fatigue and injury caused by repetitive tasks and lack of movement. By creating an environment that allows and encourages the human body’s natural movements, employers can provide a workspace that inspires creativity and ensures long-term physical and mental well-being.
A successful ergonomic workplace will have a good balance between comfort and functionality.
Seating Solutions
These days, office chairs aren’t just a piece of necessary furniture for purpose and comfort. They are tools that have a direct impact on an employee’s posture and spinal health. A good ergonomic chair will provide adjustable lumbar support to work with the natural curvature of the spine. It should also allow customisation of seat and armrest heights and positions and may also swivel. Being able to adjust your chair so your feet rest comfortably on the floor on a footrest will help take pressure out of the back.
Investing in a good, quality ergonomic chair can provide comfort as well as help prevent musculoskeletal issues and long-term health problems.
Height-Adjustable Desks
Desks and workstations have always been a one size fits all situation – until recent years. Height-adjustable desks provide flexibility to switch between sitting and standing positions. This promotes movement and reduces the negative effects of prolonged sitting. Being able to move and adjust your position throughout the day will enhance blood circulation, improve energy levels and help reduce the risk of weight gain.
Smart Set Up Of Monitors
Having your monitor/s at the correct height, angle and distance can significantly reduce neck strain and eye fatigue. As a rule, the top of the screen should be at or slightly below eye level. Positioning the screen at arms-length will help you to maintain a neutral neck posture.
More and more office staff prefer to work with two monitors. To support this work practice, consider double monitor arms which take up less room on the desk while team members can adjust the monitor positions to their liking.
Don’t forget to arrange the monitors in a 90-degree angle to the windows if possible. While this measure minimises the glare and reflection on the screens, it also significantly reduces eye strain caused by computer work.
What About The Keyboard?
Having your keyboard and mouse in the correct position promotes a relaxed posture and reduces the risk of conditions such as carpel tunnel syndrome. Your keyboard and mouse should be positioned so that your arms form a 90-degree angle while typing.
Correct Lighting For Ergonomic Design
Natural lighting is always best, but having well-designed artificial lighting is essential for a healthy and productive work environment.
Having adequate lighting will reduce eye strain as well as contribute to mood regulation and over-all well-being. Create a balance and comfortable workspace with a combination of ambient, task and indirect lighting.
Neutral Desk Top Colour
Talking about eye strain. Did you know that the colour of the desk top is directly linked to the eye strain we can feel?
Selecting the work tops, you might wish to stay away from your bright branding colour.
Opt for a neutral white or a light timber tone instead to go easy on our eyes which are already challenged enough by our daily computer tasks.
Organised Workspace
Keeping only essential items on your desk to keep a clean, decluttered and organised workspace will help decrease stress and promote productivity.
The Benefits Of Ergonomics
Ergonomics is more than just being comfortable, of course. Investing in ergonomics benefits employee health and well-being and improves productivity, quality and job satisfaction.
It’s a known fact that happy, comfortable employees are productive employees. Ergonomic design encourages movement and reduces discomfort. When workers are comfortable and healthy, they can perform better and are more engaged in their work.
Long-Term Sustainability
Ergonomics promotes sustainable work habits by encouraging movement and breaks. Prioritizing employee health and adopting healthier routines can reduce absenteeism, healthcare costs and turnover rates. Reducing the risk of work health problems leads to cost savings for the employer.
Enhanced Productivity
A workspace designed around the employees’ health and well-being stimulates creativity and boosts morale. When workers are free from physical discomfort and feel that their comfort and satisfaction are valued their minds can focus on innovative problem-solving and fresh ideas. Enhancing overall employee engagement.
Incorporating Ergonomics
It doesn’t require a huge overall to create an ergonomic workplace. Instead, you can gradually introduce impactful changes.
Evaluate your current space to see where you can make ergonomic improvements. Begin by targeting areas that already produce strain or discomfort to yourself or your employees. Investing in items such as adjustable desks and ergonomically designed chairs will pay off in terms of employee health and productivity.
Recognise employees’ individual needs and allow employees to personalise their workstations. Educate your workers on the benefits of ergonomic furniture and practices. Encourage regular breaks and ensure your employees are aware of the importance of movement and posture.
Ergonomic design is an ongoing process. To ensure continued comfort and well-being is upheld, regular checks and adjustments will be required.
In conclusion, whether you work at home or elsewhere, incorporating ergonomics into your daily routine can greatly impact your well-being. An environment that supports physical health, mental well-being and productivity will produce a thriving, engaged and motivated workforce.
Ergonomics is all about making our lives easier, more comfortable, and more efficient.
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