Office Ergonomics Safety Tips for a More Efficient and Comfortable Workplace

Being proactive when it comes to creating a safely designed workspace should be a priority for employers. You’ll save money and boost sales in the long run with a happy, productive, and safe workforce.

Let’s go over some ergonomic safety tips from our ergonomics consultants at Solutions Northwest Inc. that will make your workplace the best it can be.

Ergonomic Office Furniture

A recent survey revealed that the number one thing that employees say is an ergonomic priority is their office chair. Most office work is done sitting down in front of a computer, so it only makes sense that office chairs should be as well designed as possible.

While a great office chair with lumbar support, adjustable height, and spinal alignment might cost more up front, the investment is worth it. Splurge on a high-quality chair that will last a long time and give employees the support they need.

Even if you can’t spend a lot of money up front on a great computer chair, you can make adjustments to those that you have. A few supportive cushions can improve the chairs you have on hand.

Additionally, you should consider investing in an adjustable desk. The surface of an ergonomic desk should provide space for your equipment (keyboard, mousepad, printer, etc.) and other aspects like available leg clearance between your desk and chair. Additionally, an ergonomic office desk should be adjustable to allow for suitable leg space and proper monitor level.

Because every work station or home office is different, look into getting an ergonomics assessment to decide what works best for you.

Related Article:  “Choosing the Right Ergonomic Furniture for Your Home Office Setup”

Another component of desk work is the ever-present computer. There are important computer safety ergonomics that you can deploy that don’t cost a lot and still make a big difference.

For example, mount a keyboard tray slight below the desk to make typing easier. Add an ergonomic mouse with a wrist support to help reduce carpal tunnel syndrome.

Consider adding a standing desk to get employees out of their chairs from time to time. You can even buy a unit that fits on top of a regular desk instead of splurging on a whole standing desk system.

Related Article: “The Ergonomic Way to Sit at Your Desk and View Your Monitor”

Think Outside of the Cubicle

Ergonomics and safety don’t end at the cubicle. There are still other areas of the office you can apply ergonomic safety principles to ensure a happy and healthy workforce.

Are there any areas where employees might have to do heavy lifting, like getting boxes of paper from a supply closet? Invest in the equipment they need so they don’t strain their back.

Ergonomics can extend to the break room, too. Adding plants or making sure there’s enough natural light contributes to a healthy environment.

More Ergonomic Safety Tips

Taking a proactive approach to how you design your office or home office ensures you and your employees are always focused, well-rested, and productive. Follow these ergonomic safety tips to make your office the best it can be.

Don’t forget to listen to your employees, too. If they have special needs or suggestions to improve your shared space, take them into consideration.

Boosting your office safety and ergonomics is a wise investment in your future. In fact, if you’re ready to invest in the safety, productivity, and happiness of your workers – consider contacting the ergonomics experts at Solutions Northwest Inc.  for an ergonomics assessment.

Using remote workers? The ergonomics experts at Solutions Northwest Inc. are now offering affordable Virtual Ergonomics Assessments specifically for remote workers (all you need is access to e-mail or a smart phone).

At SolutionsNW.com we value the importance of a positive workplace culture. Part of a positive workplace is a safe workplace, Contact Us to schedule an ergonomics consultation or ergonomics assessment for your office today.

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Virtual Ergonomics Assessment available nationwide!

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