How Ergonomics Increase Productivity

The modern office is dynamic, and it requires constant improvement. When it comes to making the conditions conducive for workers, most business owners think of listening to employee problems, work flexibility, proper remuneration, and career growth opportunities. Few think of the input that workplace ergonomics have on employee productivity.

Ergonomics is the art of designing the workplace with the limitations and abilities of workers in mind. Ergonomic practices in the workplace optimise employee interactions and make performing duties efficient and easy. Here are ways that ergonomics increase productivity.

Ergonomic Workstations Help Reduce the Risk of Injury

One of the biggest threat to productivity at the workplace is an increase in injuries, causing an increase in the number of employees who are absent at the workplaces. Surprisingly, most of the accidents do not result from lifting heavy items or slip and falls, but the strain that comes from repetitive work or postures.

The reason why repetitive strain injuries are not noticed fast is that they develop over time. In the same line, they take time to treat, which causes a lengthy absence of employees. Not only does this rob the business of a valuable workforce but also lots of cash in compensation claims. Companies can deal with the problem by offering comfortable workstations that promote healthy postures and enough light, which, in turn, help cut down strain and make work easier.

Cutting Down Standing Hours Reduces Foot and Back Issues

Standing desks have become a trend in many workplaces. Most people believe that standing for long hours may help in keeping fit as part of a workout routine. However, standing for long periods of time at work is often counter-productive. Most of the employees end up with back and heel pain.

You can optimise productivity by lowering the number of hours that staff members stand. Standing desks should be supplemented with standard workstations. You can also redesign workplaces where staff members serve customers while seated. When you take these steps, common foot issues can be avoided.

Employees Who Use Ergonomic Equipment Make Fewer Errors

Workers who work in ergonomic workstations concentrate better at what they are doing. In contrast, employees who are uncomfortable tend to get distracted from their work by the discomfort and end up making errors that they would have otherwise not made. This is very important, especially where workers are doing physically demanding jobs or operating machinery.

Simple errors when operating machinery can lead to wastage of raw materials or severe injuries. On the other hand, mistakes when doing calculations, making measurements, and other industrial activities may hurt the quality of the products. Avoid all these by researching on the best postures or sitting positions for your workers and invest in ergonomic furniture and equipment.

Comfortable Workers Have More Energy, Therefore Work Better

Most of the workers who fall sick due to discomfort usually start by complaining of fatigue and muscle aches. This makes them less capable of performing their duties quickly and efficiently. The problem deteriorates with time until they are unable to work at all. They are then forced to take frequent breaks to lie down and stretch to ease aches and muscle strain.

Physical pain not only impacts on bodily output but mental energy, too. Such people are hard to inspire or think through challenges in the workplace. They also cannot come up with innovative ideas.

An Ergonomically Designed Workplace Shows You Care about Employees’ Welfare

Positive workplace design improvements show that you care about workers' health and well-being. A mere thought that the employer cares about them can have a profound impact on motivation and productivity. In fact, one of the ways to motivate the workers is to show them that you care. It makes them feel indebted to reciprocate with a similar positive gesture.

Conclusion

There is a strong connection between ergonomics and office productivity. If you are looking for ways to motivate your workers to work harder and better, consider redesigning the workplace to become more comfortable and enhance interactions among workers. It reduces accidents and fatigue, and creates a conducive environment for workers to concentrate on what they are doing. If you do not have enough cash for an overhaul, you can gradually redesign the workplace in parts until the whole of it is transformed.