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Nov 13, 2024 • 9 min read
Why Does Your Business Need Ergonomic Assessments?
Written by: Devanshi Sarda
In today’s dynamic work culture, ergonomics is a powerful investment for employers. Regularly conducting ergonomic assessments can help to prevent injuries, boost productivity and reduce healthcare costs by approximately 72%. By optimising workspaces to meet employees’ needs, businesses can greatly reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), which impact approximately 29% of Australia’s population and cost businesses more than $24 billion in 2013.
The Importance of Effective Health and Safety Document
Safety Champion’s software offers an intuitive platform for managing safety processes, from document storage to real-time monitoring, accessible across all devices. Picture: Safety Champion’s App
Effective documentation is crucial in ergonomic assessments, ensuring that findings and recommendations are accurately recorded and accessible. Utilising tools like Safety Champion’s online safety management system enhances this process by providing a centralised platform for storing and managing assessment records.
This approach not only facilitates compliance with safety regulations but also promotes accountability and continuous improvement in workplace ergonomics. By maintaining detailed records, employers can track the implementation of safety recommendations, monitor their effectiveness, and make informed decisions to optimise employee well-being and productivity.
Discover how Safety Champion can streamline your safety processes
–visit their website today!
Why Does Ergonomics Matter for Long-term Employee Productivity?
60% of employees report experiencing ergonomic-related discomfort in their work environments, including:
- Non-adjustable chairs
- Cluttered desks
- Inadequate lighting
- Poorly positioned monitors
According to a 2020 report on the cost of poor-quality (COPQ) work, poor ergonomics produces several consequences for a business, including:
- Costing 20% of a company’s sales revenue
- Making up as much as 40% of total operations cost
- Reduced employee morale
- Mental strain
- Increased risk of workplace burnout
On the other hand, prioritising workplace ergonomics creates several benefits, such as:
- Improving an employee’s work cycle time by 18%
- Enhancing lean processes by 27%
- Boosting overall productivity
- Improving operational efficiency
Key Factors Putting Employees at Risk of Injury
- Poor Workstation Design: Incorrect desk height, inadequate chair support, and improper monitor positioning can lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) like severe back pain and neck strain.
- Repetitive Movements: Continuous typing, continuous usage of the mouse and awkward sitting postures may contribute to repetitive strain injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and lower back issues.
- Sedentary Work: Prolonged sitting without breaks may increase the risk of weight gain and musculoskeletal disorders, and also contributes to the development of conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart diseases.
- Insufficient Breaks: Failing to incorporate regular movement or stretching breaks can result in cumulative strain injuries like neck and eye fatigue.
- Inadequate Lighting: Poor lighting causes eye strain, discomfort, headaches, and reduced visual clarity. If left unaddressed, these can create long-term vision issues.
- Increased Noise Levels: Excessive noise in the work environment disrupts concentration and hampers employees’ ability to focus, leading to increased stress levels.
What is Ergonomic Equipment?
Ergonomic equipment refers to tools and furniture specifically designed to support the body’s natural posture and movements, with the primary goal of reducing strain and discomfort. Common examples of ergonomic equipment include:
- Ergonomic office chairs
- Footrests
- Monitor risers
- Ergonomic keyboards
- Vertical mouses
- Sit-stand workstations
- Saddle seats
How Does Ergonomic Equipment Reduce Injury?
Ergonomic equipment helps reduce workplace injuries by minimising repetitive movements and promoting long-term postural health. Incorporating ergonomic tools into daily work routines allows employees to adopt positions that align with their natural body mechanics, hence minimising strain on muscles and joints.
With 20% to 60% of office workers affected by musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) across Australia, the implementation of ergonomic equipment is critical in lowering the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs), thereby fostering a safer, more efficient work environment.
Different Roles Require Different Types of Ergonomic Equipment
The type of ergonomic equipment varies according to job roles, as desk workers and manual labourers face distinct physical challenges.
Desk workers benefit from equipment designed to improve posture and reduce strain from prolonged sitting and repetitive tasks, such as:
- Adjustable chairs
- Sit-stand desks
- Ergonomic keyboards
Manual labourers, on the other hand, would rely on tools that minimise physical exertion and prevent injuries from heavy lifting, like:
- Lifting aids
- Adjustable workstations
- Anti-fatigue mats
The most effective ergonomic solutions must be tailored to address the specific demands of each role, enhancing both comfort and safety in the workplace.
The Role of Ergonomic Assessments in Reducing Business Costs
Employers may leverage several long-term benefits by conducting ergonomic assessments. These perks include:
Significant Reduction in Healthcare Costs:
- Poor workplace ergonomics can lead to injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), resulting in costly workers compensation claims.
- In the past decade, 20,500 workers (14.5% of all claims) filed workers compensation claims for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs).
- Although insurers cover treatment costs for approved claims, employers bear indirect expenses like prolonged absences, replacement and training costs, and higher premiums.
- Proactively addressing ergonomic risks with affordable solutions helps prevent injuries, supports faster returns to work, and leads to long-term savings.
Increased Employee Productivity
- Reduced Productivity Losses: Poor ergonomics can significantly impact productivity, costing companies billions annually.
- Improved Employee Comfort: Ergonomic assessments reduce physical strain, enhance posture, and minimise repetitive motions.
- Sustained Focus: A well-designed workspace limits high-force tasks, enabling employees to stay focused and productive.
Boost Company Reputation and Employee Engagement:
- Strengthened Employer Brand: Prioritising ergonomics demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being, enhancing the company’s reputation as a desirable workplace.
- Boosted Engagement and Retention: Ergonomic workplaces promote comfort and support, leading to higher employee engagement, loyalty, and productivity. This translates to 23% higher profitability and 43% lower turnover.
- Long-term Financial Gains: Investing in ergonomic solutions reduces absenteeism, enhances performance, and acts as a strategic investment that yields substantial long-term returns.
How AusRehab Resolves Your Workplace Ergonomic Woes
Ergonomic assessments are an essential step towards cultivating a healthier, safer, and more productive work environment for your employees. At AusRehab, we specialise in providing comprehensive ergonomic assessments tailored to your business needs. Our experts work closely with you to identify and address ergonomic risks, helping you reduce workplace injuries, enhance employee well-being, and boost overall productivity.
Ready to transform your workplace? Contact AusRehab today to schedule your ergonomic assessment and take the first step toward creating a more efficient and engaged workforce.
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Devanshi creates insightful content that highlights best practices in injury management, ergonomic solutions, and strategies to foster safer work environments. Devanshi’s writing aims to inform and support businesses and workers in implementing effective workplace safety measures and rehabilitation practices.
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