When you think of ergonomics, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Often, the term is associated with comfortable furniture, or workspace layouts that optimize posture. Those are certainly key concerns with ergonomics, but more broadly, the term encompasses any strategic initiative to design office environments with people in mind. The ergonomic workplace is one in which everything is made to support the efficiency and wellbeing of personnel.
At Corovan, we have a proven track record in office relocation and redesign, and we know a thing or two about helping our clients design physical spaces where employee health and comfort are paramount. Here’s a quick guide for any employer seeking to emphasize ergonomics.
Understanding the Impact of Workplace Ergonomics
Anyone who has ever worked in an uncomfortable, non-ergonomic workspace knows what the consequences can be: After a day spent hunched over a computer, you may experience devastating back pain, chronic eye strain, and a general lack of physical pep.
Ergonomic workplace designs emphasize proper posture in order to reduce the risk of workplace injury, and to mediate the effects of repetitive motions or simply sitting at a desk all day. For employees, this means greater comfort, and hopefully less distraction during the working day. For employers, this means fewer injury claims or worker’s comp issues, along with improved productivity, morale, and employee retention.
7 Tips for Improved Office Ergonomics
When it comes to designing an office space with ergonomics in mind, there are a few important considerations to keep top-of-mind.
1) Prioritize ergonomic furniture and equipment.
First and foremost, choose chairs that support proper posture and physical comfort. Select adjustable desks that can accommodate different heights and preferences. And be sure to equip employees with ergonomic accessories, including keyboard trays and monitor stands.
2) Design an employee-centric layout.
Workspace layout is just as important as the actual furniture you buy. Arrange work stations to minimize eye strain. Create workflows that encourage your employees to get up, move around, and take breaks. And ensure sufficient space for employees to stretch as needed.
3) Optimize monitor and lighting setups.
Ergonomics involves physical posture but also vision and eye strain. To that end, set up monitors at eye level and at the recommended distance. Resolve any issues of glare or screen reflection. Also keep in mind that proper lighting is essential for eliminating eye strain and fatigue.
4) Pay attention to air quality and comfort.
To optimize employee wellness, ensure that your office has proper air circulation and adequate ventilation. Regulate temperature and humidity to ensure employee comfort. And be mindful of noise and acoustics, seeking the most peaceful possible work environment.
5) Provide accessible and inclusive spaces.
Be sure to accommodate the needs of employees who have disabilities or other specific needs. Offer quiet spaces for those employees who require intense focus and concentration. And design multifunctional rooms for various work activities.
6) Educate employees.
Creating an ergonomic workplace involves more than just buying furniture and optimizing layout. It’s also important to educate employees about ergonomic best practices. This might involve:
- Conducting training sessions on proper desk ergonomics and posture.
- Distributing ergonomic guidelines and resources to all employees.
- Encouraging employees to take responsibility for their wellbeing at work.
7) Conduct regular ergonomic assessments.
Finally, be diligent about auditing your workspace ergonomics, implementing routine assessments of employee work stations. Actively solicit feedback from employees, seeking areas for improvement. And be ready to adapt your office space according to the feedback you receive.
Learn More About How We Can Improve Employee Comfort
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Learn MoreLeverage Corovan’s Expertise in Ergonomic Design
Ergonomic office design is critical for supporting the wellbeing, morale, and productivity of your employees. For more than 75 years, Corovan has been at the forefront of this field, helping countless enterprises transform their workspaces in order to facilitate a superior employee experience. To find out more about how we can help you relocate or set up a new office, reach out to the Corovan team today.