The Value Of Ergonomics: How To Improve Ergonomics In Workplace

You spend the majority of your day at work. It is important that the space you are confined to for your livelihood is conducive to your health. 

Ergonomics (or human factors) is the scientific discipline concerned with the understanding of the interactions among humans and other elements of a system. Poor posture can lead to many health issues including carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and low back pain.

An ergonomist applies theory data and design methodology in order to optimize human well being and overall system to ensure that the human interacting with the space is considered while making the design.

Ergonomics Improves Productivity

The best ergonomic solutions will often improve productivity. By designing a job to allow for good posture, less exertion, fewer motions and better heights and reaches, the workstation becomes more efficient.

Ergonomics Improves Employee Engagement

Employees notice when the company is putting forth their best efforts to ensure their health and safety. If an employee does not experience fatigue and discomfort during their workday, it can reduce turnover, decrease absenteeism, improve morale and increase employee involvement.

Having said that it isn't solely the responsibility of an employer to put employees an ergonomic environment, there are small things a worker can do each day to improve their work environment, take the strain off their back and improve their productivity throughout the day.

Here are five simple steps you can do to improve your work environment:

1. Sit in your natural posture

• Feet on the floor in front of you, hands on your lap, shoulders relaxed and leaned back slightly. This should feel comfortable.

2. Place the Mouse and keyboard correctly

• Height: 2 inches from your thighs
• Tilt: the keyboard down and away from you
• Position: keyboard and mouse shoulder distance apart

3. Screen placement

• Distance: sit back and extend your arm, your fingers should brush the monitor
• Height: close your eyes, open them, your site should land on the address bar of your web browser when at the correct height

4. Adjustment of chair

• Shape: think back to posture
• Length: when sitting comfortably there should be about a fist size of space between the chair and your leg
• Height: your feet should be flat on the floor when sitting

5. Get up and move! 

• An ergonomic workspace can only go so far, physical activity is still a crucial part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
• Don’t forget to get up and stretch during your work day!