What is Ergonomics?
Ergonomics is the interaction of people with their workplace. It incorporates the physical and mental wellbeing of the worker as they interact with their equipment, tasks and working environment.
People are the most essential part of any business.
An ergonomically healthy workplace is key to maintaining worker wellbeing. It also reduces the risk and costs of injury or illness in the workplace.
Businesses worldwide are joining the ergonomic movement. Employees are standing more at work with the use of height adjustable desks and sit-stand workstations; maintaining correct seated posture with ergonomic chairs; and utilising ergonomically designed desktop and below desk accessories.
We spend approx. 40 hours a week at our desk. That’s a lot of time sitting when our bodies are evolutionarily designed for a lot more activity. Ergonomics is the practice of maintaining our body’s needs within the workplace.
Interested in learning more? Check out the below studies that explore the benefits of ergonomics.
Workplace Changes Associated with a Reduction in Musculoskeletal Symptoms in Office Workers – Nancy A. Nelson, Barbara A. Sliverstein (1997)
New Study of Telephone Users Shows 50% of Participants Suffered Neck Pain – University of Surrey
The Importance of Ergonomic Input Devices in the Workplace – Microsoft Corporation (2006)
Forearm Supports Reduce Upper Body Pain Linked to Computer Use - Dan Cannon (2006)
Cost of Office Productivity – Ed Grossmith (2007)