Ergonomics is the study of how people fit together with their jobs. It focuses on making sure that tasks, tools, and environments suit each worker, rather than forcing workers to adapt to rigid conditions. When people have the right resources and surroundings, they can move more naturally, avoid discomfort, and stay motivated for longer periods.
Perhaps you have noticed that after sitting in a chair for a few hours, you begin to feel stiffness or pain in your lower back, neck, or shoulders. This is one of the reasons why ergonomics exists. It gives us the knowledge we need to shape our workspaces so that our bodies do not suffer over time.
Several scientific studies have identified the part musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) play in diminishing a person’s quality of life. According to a 2019 study from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), musculoskeletal disorders were one of the top factors for living years with a disability, which is referred to as Years Lived with Disability (YLD). The 2017 Global Burden of Disease Study also shared evidence showing that lower back pain has been one of the main causes of disability worldwide since 1990.
When you lead a company, you have a special chance to help protect your employees from common injuries and disorders. Knowing the principles of ergonomics allows you to address hazards in the workplace, tailor tasks to be more comfortable, and create an environment that fosters well being for everyone.
What is Ergonomics?
Ergonomics is also called Human Factor Engineering (HFE – Human Factor Engineering) a methodology which applies psychological and physiological principles to design and engineering a product or process. The primary goal in Human Factors Engineering is reduction in human errors, improve product availability and enhance safety, health and comfort. This field includes several diverse domains, including psychology, sociology, engineering and physiology, industrial designers interaction design, visual design user experience, and computer programming.
The International Ergonomics Association defines ergonomics as a scientific discipline concerned with optimizing human well-being and system performance through the understanding of human interactions with other system elements.
The term “ergonomics” originates from two Greek words: ergon (work) and nomos (laws), defining ergonomics as the laws of work, where the job and workplace should align with the capabilities of the worker.
Although the definition seems straightforward, the practice is broad, covering a range of disciplines such as biomechanics, psychology, and industrial engineering. Human factors specialists study how different tools and tasks impact health and performance, using their findings to shape guidelines for workplaces globally. Cognitive ergonomics, in particular, focuses on mental processes such as perception, memory, reasoning, and motor responses to understand how these influence interactions between humans and systems.
Understanding cognitive ergonomics and mental processes can significantly affect interactions among humans and the systems they engage with, emphasising the need for designs that align well with cognitive capabilities. By understanding ergonomics and its principles, you have the potential to prevent or minimize these issues.
Before we delve deeper into why ergonomics is vital in the workplace, it’s useful to learn about the different types of ergonomics and how they interact with each other.
Types of Ergonomics in the Workplace
Ergonomics is not just about buying a chair with adjustable settings. Although the physical side of ergonomics is widely known, there are multiple areas that come together to create a truly ergonomic environment.
Below are four categories of ergonomics that will help you see how wide-ranging this discipline can be.
Physical Ergonomics
Physical ergonomics explores how the body interacts with tools and tasks, such as desk layout, monitor positioning, and how employees lift objects. This area aims to ensure that people do not develop strain or pain in their muscles, joints, and nerves. It focuses on adjusting chairs, keyboards, tables, and even footwear to help individuals maintain a natural posture and avoid overextension.
Research indicates that physical ergonomics can significantly reduce workplace injuries and improve productivity. For instance, implementing ergonomic interventions reduced musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) by 58% in industries with high physical demands. Additionally, a Cornell University study reported a 46% increase in productivity among call center employees provided with sit/stand desks, as the ability to change positions throughout the day reduced discomfort and improved focus.
Examples of physical ergonomics include:
- Adjustable office chairs that support the lumbar region.
- Standing desks that allow for posture variation.
- Ergonomic keyboards and mice to reduce wrist strain.
- Anti-fatigue mats for employees standing for long periods.
- Proper training on safe lifting techniques for warehouse workers.
Cognitive Ergonomics
Cognitive ergonomics focuses on how people process information, solve problems, and interact with technology or processes. This area examines mental workload, memory requirements, and decision-making factors.
A well-designed workspace should present information in a way that is easy to understand and minimize cognitive overload. When tasks are overwhelming or interfaces are confusing, individuals can experience mental fatigue, leading to errors and decreased performance.
Examples of cognitive ergonomics include:
- Simplified navigation in workplace software.
- Consistent and intuitive labeling of control panels.
- Clear signage and wayfinding systems in office buildings.
- Automated reminders to reduce memory reliance for repetitive tasks.
- Structured workflows that guide employees step by step.
- Standardized color codes for safety warnings or instructions.
Organizational Ergonomics
Organizational ergonomics takes a broader look at how workers fit into the company as a whole. It involves designing processes, job roles, and schedules to promote cooperation and well-being. This area examines communication flows, shift schedules, and the arrangement of break times to ensure employees feel supported and valued.
Research underscores the importance of organizational ergonomics. A report from the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) revealed that businesses implementing ergonomic scheduling saw a 30% decrease in employee absenteeism and a 20% boost in team collaboration. Moreover, ensuring fair and flexible schedules can reduce stress and burnout, especially in industries with demanding shifts.
Examples of organizational ergonomics include:
- Rotating schedules to prevent overburdening any single employee.
- Flexible work-from-home policies to accommodate individual needs.
- Structured team meetings to improve communication and collaboration.
- Break schedules that align with peak productivity times.
- Streamlined workflows to enhance efficiency and reduce bottlenecks.
Environmental Ergonomics
Environmental ergonomics examines the impact of the surrounding environment on work performance and health. This includes factors such as lighting conditions, temperature, humidity levels, air quality, and noise. By controlling these elements, a company can create a space that keeps employees alert and comfortable.
Examples of environmental ergonomics include:
- Adjustable lighting systems to match natural daylight cycles.
- HVAC systems that regulate temperature and air circulation.
- Acoustic panels to reduce noise pollution in open offices.
- Plants to improve air quality and add a calming visual element.
- Ergonomic workspace layouts that maximize natural light exposure.
- Noise-canceling headsets for employees in high-noise environments.
Importance of Workplace Ergonomics
An effective ergonomics process can benefit your organization in different ways.
A review by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries examined 250 case studies on the impact of ergonomics across various environments. Their findings indicate that ergonomics can significantly enhance your organization in several key areas:
Cost Reduction
By proactively addressing ergonomic risk factors, you can prevent costly musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). With nearly one-third of workers’ compensation costs tied to MSDs, this presents a substantial opportunity for cost savings. Additionally, it’s important to note that indirect costs can escalate to twenty times the direct expenses of an injury.
Enhanced Productivity
Implementing effective ergonomic solutions often leads to increased productivity. When jobs are designed to promote good posture, reduce exertion, and optimize movements, workstations become more efficient, allowing employees to perform better.
Improved Quality of Work
Inadequate ergonomics can result in tired and frustrated employees, potentially compromising the quality of their work. If tasks are overly physically demanding, workers may not execute their responsibilities as trained. For instance, an employee might fail to secure a screw properly due to excessive force requirements, leading to potential quality issues.
Greater Employee Engagement
Employees recognize and appreciate when a company prioritizes their health and safety. By minimizing fatigue and discomfort during work hours, organizations can lower turnover rates, reduce absenteeism, boost morale, and enhance employee participation.
Stronger Safety Culture
Emphasizing ergonomics demonstrates a company’s dedication to safety and health as fundamental values. The cumulative effects of the aforementioned benefits contribute to a robust safety culture within the organization. Healthy employees are invaluable assets; nurturing a safety and health culture ultimately enhances overall performance.
How to Improve Ergonomics in the Workplace
Ergonomic training improves workplace ergonomics by enhancing employee comfort, productivity, and overall well-being while reducing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) such as carpal tunnel syndrome and back pain.
Here’s how to create a more ergonomic environment:
Step 1: Conduct Ergonomics Assessments
A strong starting point is to perform ergonomics evaluations and a complete review of the current workspace. This includes looking at the tasks employees do, the equipment they use, and their overall posture and movements.
Research from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) highlights that ergonomic assessments can significantly reduce workplace injuries by identifying risk factors such as repetitive motions, awkward postures, and excessive force requirements. These evaluations can be done in person or through checklists and software tools. The aim is to discover areas where employees experience discomfort or may be at risk of injury.
It is also helpful to ask employees directly about their experiences. Encourage them to share which tasks lead to aches or fatigue, which pieces of equipment are less comfortable, and whether any movements feel repetitive or tiring. Listening to employees helps identify possible changes that might have the most impact.
Step 2: Invest in Adjustable Furniture and Equipment
Once you know what needs attention, selecting ergonomic equipment and adjustable furniture can address many common risks. Examples of ergonomic furnitures include:
- Adjustable chairs with lumbar support
- Height-adjustable desks
- Footrests
- Monitor arms for screen alignment
- Ergonomic keyboards and mice
- Anti-glare screens
- Task lighting
Begin by introducing adjustable chairs and desks. Allow employees to fine-tune their setups to align with their specific body dimensions and working styles. Ensure chairs support spinal curves and desks accommodate both sitting and standing positions. For broader acceptance, involve employees in trials to find the most suitable options.
Enhance individual workstations with accessories like footrests and monitor arms, enabling optimal alignment. Provide anti-glare screens and adjustable lighting to reduce eye strain. Rolling out these changes in phases, paired with employee feedback at each stage, ensures smooth implementation and long-term satisfaction. Provide clear guides or training for proper equipment usage to maximize benefits and prevent misuse.
Step 3: Promote Proper Posture and Movement
Maintaining ergonomic posture in the workplace is a cornerstone of ergonomic health and overall productivity. Research highlights that prolonged poor posture can lead to chronic discomfort, musculoskeletal disorders, and reduced efficiency. By implementing targeted strategies, businesses can create a healthier and more productive environment.
Promote employees to improve their posture by:
- Encourage employees to keep feet flat on the floor and shoulders relaxed.
- Promote wrist neutrality with ergonomic keyboards and mice.
- Use visual aids, like posters, to provide posture reminders.
- Introduce software or apps to prompt regular breaks.
- Provide sit-stand desks for postural flexibility.
- Facilitate stretch and movement routines during work hours.
Use posters, digital tools, and team meetings to raise awareness about the importance of posture. Equip workstations with adjustable chairs and desks, ensuring employees have the tools to maintain alignment. Additionally, incorporate ergonomic keyboards and mice to support wrist health.
Regularly prompt employees to take movement breaks using apps or alerts. These pauses can be paired with simple guided exercises to release tension and maintain flexibility. Introducing sit-stand desks can further encourage a dynamic workflow, as alternating between sitting and standing has been shown to improve circulation and reduce fatigue.
Step 4: Optimize Workstation Layout
Optimizing workstation layout is a critical step in creating an ergonomic layout that reduces physical strain and improves overall productivity in the workplace. Poorly arranged workstations can lead to unnecessary stretching, twisting, and repetitive movements that cause discomfort and reduce efficiency.
Business can optimize employees’ workstation productivity by:
- Place frequently used items within easy reach.
- Position monitors directly in front of users at eye level and about an arm’s length.
- Incorporate adjustable task lighting and anti-glare screens to minimize eye strain.
- Provide adjustable furniture to accommodate individual preferences.
- Ensure keyboards and mice are aligned to keep wrists straight and elbows at a 90-degree angle.
To implement these improvements, start by evaluating the current workstation setups and identifying pain points for employees. Engage employees in the process by seeking their feedback on daily challenges and preferences. Rearrange workspaces to ensure essential tools are easily accessible without awkward postures.
Introduce ergonomic equipment, such as monitor arms and keyboard trays, to support proper alignment. Adjustable task lighting can help employees control brightness and reduce glare, while anti-glare screens can further protect against eye strain. Train employees on how to personalize their workstation setups and educate them on the benefits of ergonomic arrangements.
Implementing changes incrementally allows employees to adapt while providing opportunities for feedback to refine the setup.
Step 5: Implement Training Programs
In addition to workplace improvement, businesses can offer training sessions that provide ergonomic education, teaching employees about ergonomic principles and the benefits of proper workstation setup. These training sessions can also cover topics like recognizing early signs of musculoskeletal strain and addressing them promptly.
Empower employees to take ownership of their ergonomic well-being by providing checklists or guides for self-assessment. Regular refresher courses can help maintain awareness and encourage ongoing commitment to ergonomic practices.
Partnering with industry leaders like Ergo Global ensures that your organization has access to the latest ergonomic solutions and expert training resources.
Building a Future with Ergonomics
Ergonomics is about more than adjusting chairs or installing bright lights in an office but a science that connects workers with their tasks and their surroundings to promote better health, productivity, and satisfaction.
You hold the power to make a real difference by integrating ergonomics into your company. Whether you manage a small team or a large corporation, each change you make can help people remain healthier, happier, and more engaged. The implementation process might include evaluating the current setup, buying or adjusting equipment, and refining schedules to ensure employees have adequate breaks.
Ergo Global stands ready to support you on this journey. With a focus on ergonomic principles, we can help you discover how to prevent musculoskeletal disorders, adapt your office or production floor, and comply with local regulations. Feel free to contact Ergo Global to learn more about how we can help you integrate ergonomics in your business.
