Read on to learn about a few ways through which you can improve workplace ergonomics.
Ergonomics is often an overlooked factor when discussing health and safety concerns at the workplace, as injuries caused due to poor ergonomics are not as evident as injuries caused by falls from heights or hazardous chemicals. However, they can still be equally dangerous to the workplace if the hazards causing them aren’t controlled.
The main aim of practicing good ergonomics in the workplace is to reduce musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). MSDs include tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, ruptured discs, strained muscles, and ruptured discs. Often the result of poorly designed work stations, MSDs can lead to low motivation, reduced productivity, increased insurance claims, loss of income, and suffering and pain that affects both employees and their families.
The only way to decrease the risk of MSD is to practice good ergonomics in the workplace. Discover a few ways which you can start practicing from today!
Ensure A Straight Posture
Good posture is often confused with sitting in a position that you feel comfortable in or what ‘feels right.’ However, such positions are not ergonomically correct. The key is to keep your back and neck straight and aligned. Instead of sitting in one position for prolonged hours, you can also change your positions throughout the day.
Adjust Your Computer Station
Make adjustments to your computer station so that it can work for you. If you are using a desktop, make sure your mouse and keyboard are at the same level and in a position that your wrists remain straight. Moreover, the weight of your arms should be supported by the armrests of the chair. If you need to look at documents while you type, ensure that you have a document holder. All stationery and tools, such as pens, pencils, staplers, and your phone, should be within your reach. If you use your phone frequently, go for a headset so that you can conveniently talk while working in the correct posture.
Use a Comfortable Chair
If most of your day is spent at the desk, you should opt for an ergonomic chair that has several settings for various seated postures. It would be best to choose a chair with an armrest, adjustable height, seat pan depth settings, and lumbar support. If your feet don’t reach the floor, use a footrest with the chair. Remember, it doesn’t matter how well the chair is adjusted if you do not sit in it properly- even the best standard chairs may not work for employees with specific disabilities. So be sure to make accommodations for workers who require them.
Take Care of Your Eyes
Eye strain is quite common in employees who spend most of their day looking at computer or laptop screens. Therefore, you should adjust your monitor to be at eye level when you sit straight in your chair and not in an angled position. Ensure that you look at it directly and that it’s not angled. Moreover, if you have a window, place the monitor at the right angle to reduce glare. Monitors with a flicker or with low resolution should be replaced or upgraded.
Hire an Ergonomist Company!
With this advice, organizations can significantly reduce and mitigate MSDs, improve health outcomes, reduce costs, and increase productivity.
Visit our website if you are looking for professional Ergonomic Services for your company.
