Why is ergonomics recognised as a way to improve the workplace

As already mentioned before, sitting for long hours is very bad for the body. It causes fatigue and leads to various health problems, such as obesity and diabetes. Make it a point to get up from your chair and stretch frequently. Stretching your muscles can improve muscle strength, balance, and also coordination.

Also, stretching re-energizes the body and increases blood circulation, reducing the risk of injury. Make sure that all the furniture in your workplace is ergonomic, especially the chairs. Buy adjustable chairs that have settings for different postures. A good chair should provide lumbar support, arm-rests, foot-rests, and should have adjustable height settings.

Providing good chairs will make sure that your employees maintain proper posture while sitting, and it will also prevent back problems, etc. Your workplace should be a well-lit one where there is adequate lighting, be it natural or artificial. It can cause eye fatigue, headaches, and even cause workplace injuries and accidents. Make sure your workplace has adequate lighting in all areas. Check if all the lights are working correctly.

You can also provide table lamps for people who work on desks. Office ergonomics is about the interaction of your work environment with your body. As such, the design and layout of your workplace must be well planned.

Items that are used regularly should be placed in a way that minimizes strain and effort to access them. Safety and prevention of workplace hazards are the main objectives of ergonomics. After all, a safe workplace is a happy and productive workplace. Ask your employees if they are having any problems and if they think something needs to be changed.

Training is an essential element of a successful workplace ergonomics implementation program. The implementation of proper ergonomics at work can be a lot easier if employees are trained and educated on the same. Conducting training sessions for your employees can increase their knowledge of ergonomics and help them identify potential problems in your workplace.

They will also be able to minimize workplace accidents and injuries, creating a safer work environment. Place your keyboard and mouse at a good angle. Adjust the keyboard and mouse in front of you so that you don't have to put unnecessary strain on your arms and neck. Working in an awkward posture is not an efficient way to work.

High force requirements cause unnecessary exertion that slows work down. Using mechanical assists, counter balance systems, adjustable height lift tables and workstations, powered equipment and ergonomic tools will reduce work effort and muscle exertions. Existing Guidelines. OSHA, August 18, Solutions for the Prevention of Musculoskeletal Injuries in Foundries.

OSHA Publication , Also available in Spanish. Workplace ergonomics fosters a safety and health culture as a core value. People appreciate they are walking into a safe workplace, and recognize the value of being taken care of in this way. Ergonomics improves productivity and employee engagement. Poor workplace ergonomics leads to fatigue, aches and pains, and injury.