Ergonomics is the study of people’s efficiency in their working environment. It is the science of designing the job, equipment and workplace to fit the worker. Simply put, it is the art of making workers comfortable in their workspaces.

Why it’s important

Working environments that are not adapted to workers can lead to stress and injuries, which in turn lead to sick leave and time off from work, directly impacting the productivity of a business. Even when workers do not suffer injuries and time off from work, ill-designed workspaces can make them less efficient.

The bottom line, especially for smaller businesses, is that poor ergonomics can hit you in the pocket. Well-planned ergonomics will mean your workers are comfortable, safe from injuries and not developing health problems, enabling them to perform at their highest level and doing their best for the business.

Quick ergonomic workspace checklist

    1. Computer screens should be free from any reflection and able to be seen without any glare. Eyes should be level with the screen and the screen should not be tilted.
    1. Desks should be placed at right angles to the main source of light or office windows.
    1. Computer monitors should be placed at arm’s length to prevent the user from leaning forward or/and developing eye strain.
    1. Workers should be able to adjust natural light sources, for example with venetian blinds.
    1. Chairs and/or tables should be height-adjustable to allow people of different body sizes to use them.
    1. Items that are heavy or frequently used should be stored at waist height.
    1. Storage facilities should be adequate to prevent workspaces from becoming dumping grounds and posing injury risks to workers.
    1. Devices such as step stools or small ladders should be available to access high shelves and other storage spaces.
    1. The air quality and temperature of the workspace should allow workers to work in comfort.
    1. Noise levels should be conducive to concentration.

Our Employee Wellbeing Programme (EAP) is available 24 hours a day of you wanted to know more about ergonomics for SMMEs.

Sources:
sme.org
www.fitness-programs-for-life.com
www.homecomingrevolution.co.za
www.officearrow.com
www.smeadvisor.com