The backbone of any profitable company is its staff, for without them, a business cannot function. Yet millions of working days are lost every year through employees taking days off on sick leave, often due to work-related injuries. And the resulting loss of revenue is enormous.

Because of this, more businesses are realising the importance of investing in workplace ergonomics as a means of considerably reducing staff absenteeism.




Economy vs. ergonomics 

Kitting out an office with ergonomically designed furniture is an important investment that should pay off in the long run even though it may be tempting to go for the cheaper options. Multi-functioning ergonomic chairs or elaborately shaped desks and keyboards may seem an extravagance, however, buying cheap, basic equipment becomes a false economy if workers go on to develop work-related injuries through using poorly designed office furniture.

Common workplace illnesses 

Some of the most common work-related injuries and complaints cited by employees are back pain, eye strain, repetitive strain injuries and stress. These problems can go on to develop into long term or chronic conditions leading to extended periods of absence from work. In many cases, such problems could be prevented through better workplace ergonomics.

Investing in ergonomic furniture 

Back pain can be caused by poor posture from long hours spent slouching in a chair that isn't providing correct support. An ergonomically designed chair can be adjusted to suit the individual and may greatly reduce many of the problems leading to back pain.

Computer mice and keyboards specifically shaped for heavy volume typists are designed to help the wrists and hands rest in a natural position, minimising repetitive strain injuries. Eye strain and headaches can be alleviated by adjustable monitor stands which position the screen at the right height.

Ergonomic lighting 

It’s not just ergonomic furniture which can affect the welfare of the staff. Other aspects to take into consideration are the lighting. The brightness of the monitor, glare from overhead lights or the sun shining through a window can all contribute to an unhealthy work environment.

The wrong type of lighting may cause staff to squint or shift into an uncomfortable position, simply so they can see their screen properly. These can lead to eye strain and posture problems, providing yet another good reason to invest in workplace ergonomics.

Ergonomic ventilation 

Ventilation is an important aspect often overlooked when considering the ergonomics of a workplace. Recycled air through air conditioning units can spread germs amongst the staff while air flow from vents or fans directed onto workers can cause general discomfort or dry eyes, particularly for those wearing contact lenses.

Alternatively poor air flow or stuffy rooms can contribute to an unpleasant working environment. And if the temperature is too high, staff may become tired and unproductive, or too cold and they’ll shiver and feel miserable.

While staff will continue to suffer from common illnesses like coughs and colds, investing in workplace ergonomics can go a long way towards preventing work-related injuries thereby noticeably reducing incidence of staff absenteeism.