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You may not be certain whatergonomic hazards are, but if your job requires you to sit at a computer for several hours a day, you’re probably feeling their effects. Employees who work onsite or at a home office are at risk of strains, sprains, and pain caused by poor ergonomics.
These issues often creep in gradually, but over time can lead to bigger health problems and reduced productivity. Let’s take a closer look at the most common ergonomic mistakes, plus simple ways to fix them.
“Ergonomics” refers to the science-based principle that workspaces and products should fit the people who use them. If you’ve ever sat for hours in an office chair that couldn’t be adjusted to your unique contours, you know the result can be an aching back, strained neck muscles, and perhaps even a headache. Now, imagine that scenario happening five days a week for months or years on end.
Can ergonomic hazards exist in all work environments? Absolutely — office workers aren’t the only ones at risk for developing repetitive-movement injuries.
Any worker who must stand or sit in the same place and repeat the same task for many hours at a time is at risk of developing injuries. The good news is that employers can reduce this risk by improving ergonomics and supporting healthier workplace habits.
Ergonomic hazards are physical factors in a work environment that can cause discomfort and lead to injury. These factors can result in poor posture and awkward movements or positions that strain the musculoskeletal system.
Someergonomic hazards examples include:
Poorly placed keyboards and monitors that force workers to strain
Dim or overly bright lighting
Workstations that are too high or too low
Poorly designed desk chairs that don’t provide support or adjustability
One ergonomic hazard that’s often overlooked is a lack of movement during the workday. People with sedentary desk jobs need regular breaks to stretch and engage their muscles and allow their soft tissues to change positions.
A short walk or some light stretching can help prevent injury. When employees skip breaks or eat lunch at their desks, they reduce their productivity in the long run and increase their health risks.
According to Liberty Mutual’s Workplace Safety Index,ergonomic hazards and overexertion injuries cost employers around $12.84 billion a year in lost wages and medical costs. Injuries caused by poor body positioning cost another $3.67 billion annually.
Cost related to employee productivity is only part of the picture. When exposed to ergonomic hazards day after day, employees can develop a variety of serious health problems, including carpal tunnel syndrome and repetitive strain injuries.
Good ergonomics can prevent injury and increase productivity levels. Employees who are comfortable tend to be more engaged and experience increased job satisfaction. With only a few small changes, employers stand to boost their profits and provide a safer, happier environment for their employees.
Creating a comfortable, productive workplace doesn’t require a complete office overhaul. The following simple, sensible changes can eliminate hazards and increase employee productivity.
A supportive chair should keep the sitter’s back straight and allow their feet to rest flat on the floor. If a footrest is used, the person’s thighs should be parallel to the floor. Chairs with armrests should allow the arms to rest gently, with the elbows close to the body and the shoulders relaxed.
The “correct” monitor position is different for each person. In most cases, it’s preferable to look slightly downward to view a monitor.
Ideally, computer screens should be placed around four inches (15–20 degrees) below eye level when measured from the center of the screen. Place monitors 20 to 28 inches from the eyes for optimal viewing. Monitor risers make it easy for each employee to adjust their monitor height.
Improper desk arrangements are one of the worstergonomic hazards in the workplace.
A poor desk setup is especially problematic when a person’s job requires long hours of prolonged sitting. Equipment that’s out of reach, unsupportive chairs, and even the wrong desk height can lead to repetitive strain injuries and other issues, such as decreased cognitive function.
Some upgrades that can improve desk function include ergonomic accessories like wrist and foot rests, desk risers, and ergonomic office chairs.
Ergonomic desks prioritize the needs of the individual and can relieve strain and discomfort. Something as simple as an ergonomic desk can support the different work styles and needs of individual employees.
Lighting may not be the first ergonomic hazard that comes to mind, but inappropriate indoor lighting — whether too dim or too bright — can cause eye strain that leads to headaches and other forms of discomfort. Office lighting with adjustable brightness options can be a quick and easy solution for most employees.
Ambient noise in the workplace can not only be distracting but also create a stressful environment.
If overall noise levels are untenable and can’t be reduced through other means, consider providing employees with white noise machines or noise-cancelling headphones. Sometimes, reducing ergonomic hazards in the workplace requires a little creativity and flexibility.
Position keyboards and mouses so employees can keep their wrists straight and their elbows at a 90-degree angle. Ergonomic keyboards serve to enhance wrist comfort and can improve typing speed and accuracy.
Ergonomic hazards can harm both productivity and overall employee wellness. Fortunately, small ergonomic adjustments can have a big impact on your team’s health and job satisfaction.
Office Desk carries a wide selection of ergonomic office furniture to help you start making positive changes today. Contact us today to learn more about our premium-quality, ergonomic desks, chairs, and other office equipment.
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