If you’re wondering how to improve ergonomics in the workplace, then you may already know why it’s worth the time and effort. Among other benefits, a study from Washington State uncovered that investments in workplace ergonomics could lead to many workplace issues:
- 75% reduction in lost workdays
- 43% decrease in labor costs
- 68% reduction in worker’s compensation costs
- 25% increase in productivity
- 58% average reduction in employee absenteeism
So, whether your workplace is a construction site or brick-and-mortar office, or you’re wondering how to improve ergonomics in a warehouse, these tips will help you reap the benefits. Here are five steps to improve ergonomics in the office.
Step One: Invest in an Ergonomics Assessment
How can you improve ergonomics in the workplace? The first step on the road to improvement is assessing your current situation. Investing in professional ergonomics consulting is a cost-effective way to uncover opportunities for change. And in the long run, it will help you save time and boost productivity.
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Step Two: Adjust Environmental Factors to Improve Ergonomics
While lighting might not be the first thing that comes to mind in a workplace ergonomics conversation, it matters. Particularly in office settings, it’s essential to address glares to reduce eye strain. Unfortunately, the same lighting that’s ideal for reading printed material isn’t suitable for looking at computer screens.
Temperature and humidity are essential considerations too. Avoiding extreme temperatures can help reduce Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs), one of the leading causes of workplace injuries.
Step Three: Invest in Proper Safety Equipment
How can ergonomics improve health and safety? In countless ways. One of the most simple steps you can take to make work conditions safer is to invest in adequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Here are some examples of must-have PPE:
- Gloves
- Helmets
- Masks
- Goggles
- Knee pads
- Wrist supports
- Earplugs
- Steel-toed boots
- High-visibility vests
Step Four: Improve the Arrangement of Workstations
One of the easiest but most effective ways to improve working conditions and boost productivity is rearranging workstations. Here are some simple suggestions from the OSHA Education Center:
- Position computer monitors 16‒29 inches away from employees’ heads.
- Arrange desk items, so the most frequently used are within the closest reach.
- Invest in phone headsets to avoid neck strain.
- Consider using ergonomic keyboards and mouse pads.
Of course, chair height, desk height, and stress reduction are critical considerations too.
Step Five: Offer Ongoing Communication and Education
Prioritizing ergonomics is an important aspect of workplace safety and employee well-being. And continuing education is also essential. Teaching ergonomics best practices will help reduce workplace injuries and absences–and boost engagement and productivity. OHSA offers a variety of training resources for businesses of all sizes.
Are You Committed to Improving Workplace Ergonomics?
Interested in learning more about how ergonomics improves operation efficiency? Or which techniques you can use to boost safety? McClure Ergonomics can help. Let us put our 25+ years of experience to work for you.