When discussing the promotion of a healthy work environment, ergonomics is a term that is frequently mentioned. What is ergonomics, and how does it relate to a healthy workplace?
Ergonomics is the study of a worker’s environment in relation to his/her work demands. The purpose of ergonomics is to optimize work performance and prevent injuries that could worsen over time. The benefits associated with introducing ergonomic programs in businesses far outweigh the costs; therefore, it has become an increasingly popular trend.
Introducing an ergonomic program into a business involves three steps: Conducting an ergonomic assessment, redesigning workspaces, and training employees. Every workspace must be specifically designed for the individual using it. Employees also require training in order to know how to properly use their newly designed workspace. Common work related injuries such as back injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome and other repetitive strain disorders can be avoided if employees are informed about ways to reduce strain caused by repetitive activities; an ergonomic assessment is a perfect way to not only show employees that their good health is a priority of the employer’s, but to kick-start a health conscious attitude at the workplace.
Businesses with ergonomic programs are able to reduce absenteeism and lower their costs for healthcare. Employees gain a great sense of importance when their employers take the time to tend to their individual needs; Therefore, ergonomics also increases contentment in workers and as a result they are more efficient and productive.
The image above displays an ideally ergonomic workstation (image taken from Wikipedia).
It's interesting that Chantal discussed ergonomics. I've seen few of my co-workers with an ergonomic set up at their desks, even though this was available. With so many strain injuries, it's surprising that employers do not make this a focus of job safety or wellness.
ReplyDeleteI'm not a true believer in ergonomics though. My reason is limited and biased. I was given an ergonomically designed snow shovel and it was useless. When picking up snow, I had to compensate how I lifted the shovel because it felt like it was breaking in my hand. The design of the shovel put a stain on my arms and back and I could not lift a full shovel of snow. I had other friends try this and they agreed with me. A traditional shovel coupled with proper lifting techniques was better and I shovelled my driveway faster.
I feel that manufactures cash in on the fact that consumers are trying healthy alternatives.
I've also tried ergonomically designed kitchen utensils. The discomfort was comparable to what I felt with the snow shovel.
It's not my intention to trash ergonomics. I value adjusting my monitor to suit my desk and chair, reducing glare from my computer, proper lighting, muscle recovery, stretches, and reducing environmental concerns. I feel these are all common sense approaches. But when it comes to having expensive ergonomic designed equiptment, do we need to fall for everything that the "experts" tell us. Shouldn't common sense rule our thinking!