Ergonomics is gaining attention nationwide due to the increased number of workers with musculoskeletal disorders like carpal tunnel syndrome. These injuries cause lost productivity, reduced morale, and increased insurance claims. Employers should focus on preventing these injuries with preventative measures such as providing ergonomic equipment and training. These solutions don’t have to cost a fortune and can make a significant difference for your employees.
Reduced risk of injuries
Ergonomics helps to reduce work-related injuries Oregon and improve performance by lowering repetitive movements, physical demands, awkward postures, and static loading on muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Workplace safety assessments can be done by trained professionals such as certified ergonomists, occupational health, and safety managers, or physical therapists. Ergonomically designed equipment like chairs that fit the body and adjustable desks allow employees to vary their work positions throughout the day, preventing prolonged sitting, which leads to poor circulation, back pain, and stiffness. A regular break schedule and healthy eating habits help with fatigue and stress, which can also contribute to musculoskeletal injuries. A healthy workforce is productive, so ensuring that the working environment is ergonomically optimized can cut costs by reducing lost workdays due to MSD-related injuries and boost productivity. Employees appreciate that employers care about their health and well-being, increasing morale.
Increased productivity
Workers who are uncomfortable or in pain tend to tire faster and become less productive. Employees who feel their employers care about them are likelier to work harder for the company. Ergonomic adjustments can be simple and inexpensive. Changing the height of desks, rearranging the positioning of equipment and tools, or encouraging employees to take micro-breaks can make a big difference in comfort and efficiency. Providing an environment where employees don’t have to be in one position for long periods can also help reduce injury risk. Offering specialized stools, apparatus that supports learning, and a standing desk are easy solutions enabling your employees to spend less time sitting or standing and more time moving around. Talk to a qualified ergonomic specialist for easy-to-implement best practices for any workplace and budget.
Reduced insurance costs
Investing in ergonomics can save money by cutting workers’ compensation costs. Injuries and sicknesses reduce productivity and lead to higher insurance premiums. Musculoskeletal injuries, such as sprains and strains, comprise more than 30% of all work-related injuries. Keeping supplies within reach, using adjustable furniture and equipment, and allowing employees to vary their working position throughout the day help lower these risks. Studies have shown that ergonomics can reduce the risk of severe injuries by addressing the mismatch between workers and tasks. This can be done through engineering controls (changing how materials are transported, changing the location of tools, and adjusting work practices) or administrative controls (training on ergonomics policies and procedures). The key is to prevent serious injury before it occurs, saving medical costs, losing time at work, and ultimately lowering insurance premiums for all parties involved.
Increased morale
Keeping your employees comfortable while they work reduces fatigue and aches, which helps workers focus more on their tasks. Fatigue can lead to a loss of quality, so employees who are more focused on their work will be able to complete their jobs to a higher standard. Using ergonomic principles for office furniture, keyboards, and other equipment can help employees feel valued by their employers. It also shows that your company cares about its employees’ health and well-being, which improves morale. Preventing work-related injuries saves your company money by lowering worker compensation costs and improving productivity. Additionally, it increases employee satisfaction and confidence and creates a corporate culture that promotes mindfulness and wellness.