Seattle, WA: 206-521-5676 Olympia, WA: 360-236-8748 Portland/Salem, OR: 503-768-9742 Info@SolutionsNW.com
5 Signs Your Office is Ergonomically Unsound

5 Signs Your Office is Ergonomically Unsound

5 Signs Your Office is Ergonomically Unsound

Ergonomics Consultants, Office Assessments, | Solutions Northwest Inc.According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2018, “there were 900,380 days-away-from-work (DAFW) cases in the U.S. private sector with 272,780 (or 30%) being musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) cases,” which are ergonomic related injuries.

While these numbers depict a stark reality of physical discomfort at work and decreased worker productivity, the silver lining lies in the fact that most ergonomic injuries can be prevented.

The key to unlocking this safety is understanding the nuances of workplace ergonomics and recognizing when an office environment isn’t up to par.

In this article, the ergonomics experts at Solutions Northwest Inc. will delve into the telltale signs that indicate your office might be ergonomically unsound, potentially putting your employees at risk and hampering your organization’s efficiency.

Do Not Ignore Ergonomic Red Flags

It’s important to underscore the broader implications of neglecting ergonomic standards. A staggering statistic from the CDC reveals that one in every four Americans grapples with lower back pain, with a considerable percentage attributed to work-related factors.

Given the real concern about workplace injuries, as highlighted by Solutions Northwest Inc., it’s clear every workplace needs to be proactive about preventing these issues before they start. Proactive ergonomic solutions are not just about physical comfort; they are intrinsically tied to employee productivity. Any compromise in ergonomic standards directly translates to a dip in work efficiency, punctuated by the pain and discomfort employees endure.

Let’s now identify 5 of the telltale signs of an office that may be setting its employees up for discomfort or even injury.

The 5 Signs Your Office is Ergonomically Unsound:

1. Poorly Adjusted Chairs

Considering that the average American worker spends around ten hours each day seated, having a well-adjusted chair to sit in becomes vital. When one’s chair is poorly adjusted, it sets the stage for a cascade of potential health issues.

A chair that’s too high can lead to dangling feet, causing circulatory problems, while one that’s too low can strain the thighs and knees. Armrests not set at the right height can either cause elevated shoulders or provide no support at all, leading to neck and shoulder strain while working. The back support plays a crucial role as well; a lack of proper lumbar support encourages slouching, which over time can cause chronic back pain and musculoskeletal issues for office workers.

When these work-related pains are combined over prolonged periods, not only does it affect the health of the individual, but it also takes a toll on their productivity.

Related article, “6 Benefits of Ergonomic Office Chairs

 

2. Strained Neck from Computer Monitors

A critical aspect of office ergonomics is the placement of the computer monitor, which can impact a computer worker’s neck and eyes.

Ideally, your monitor should be positioned directly in front of you, ensuring you don’t have to twist your neck to the right or left, which over time can lead to strain. Distance-wise, the monitor should be an arm’s length away. This distance helps reduce eye strain by keeping the screen at a comfortable viewing range. The top of the screen should align with your eyes, promoting a natural, horizontal gaze.

A poorly adjusted monitor might seem like a minor inconvenience, but over prolonged periods, it can escalate into chronic pain for office workers or cumulative trauma injuries. Simple ergonomic adjustments can significantly alleviate these risks, enhancing comfort and productivity.

Related article, “The Ergonomic Way to View Your Monitor

 

3. Workers Are Not Taking Enough Breaks

Some folks may think skipping regular breaks is helpful, but recent research has shown that it is detrimental to productivity. Furthermore, it also poses serious health risks to workers.

The human body is designed for movement, and being stationary for extended periods can lead to muscle stiffness, poor circulation, and metabolic health issues. Moreover, skipping breaks can exacerbate mental fatigue, reducing an individual’s cognitive abilities, concentration, and creativity. By simply standing, stretching, or taking a short walk, employees can reinvigorate their muscles, boost blood circulation, and alleviate mental stress for workers.

It is essential for every office to integrate breaks into the work routine, not just for enhancing efficiency and creativity, but also for safeguarding one’s physical and mental well-being of workers.

Related article, “3 Free Apps That Remind You Take Breaks From Work

 

4. Keyboard and Mouse Placement Issues

Improper keyboard and mouse placement is a leading cause of wrist and hand strain among desk workers. Using a mouse and keyboard repeatedly, especially in non-ergonomic positions, can intensify the risk of wrist pain and other related health issues, such as carpal tunnel syndrome.

The right placement ensures that your wrists are straight, reducing the need for excessive twisting, straining, or stretching. Proper ergonomic equipment can greatly boost comfort, posture, and productivity. Ensure optimal positioning with ergonomic equipment, and consider an ergonomics assessment by experts, like those at Solutions Northwest Inc., to avoid potential health risks and promote a comfortable working environment.

Related article, “5 Benefits of Using an Ergonomic Mouse and Keyboard

5. Your Office Has Never Performed an Ergonomic Assessment

When employees voice concerns about discomfort at their workstations, it’s often a sign that the work environment isn’t ergonomically optimized. An ergonomics assessment provides a comprehensive evaluation of workplace setups, ensuring that workstations are tailored to individual employee needs, ultimately fostering a safer and more comfortable environment.

Ergonomic assessments are usually performed an ergonomics expert that has been trained to scrutinize critical factors in the office, such as monitor heights—which influence neck strain—mouse placements that prevent undue wrist strain, and back support crucial for preventing prevalent issues like back pain.

Moreover, a well-structured workplace designed through ergonomics consulting can significantly increase productivity, decrease absenteeism due to health concerns, and bolster overall morale. Employees working in ergonomically designed workspaces not only exhibit better focus and efficiency but also feel more valued.

Reducing workplace injuries not only results in financial savings but also enhances operational efficiency and boosts morale, leading to a positive workplace culture and increased productivity.

Related article: “Benefits of Conducting an In-Person Ergonomics Assessment

What to Do Next If Your Office is Ergonomically Unsound

In the modern office, the significance of workplace ergonomics cannot be overstated. From preventing musculoskeletal disorders to boosting overall productivity, a well-designed ergonomic workplace plays a pivotal role in ensuring both employee health and organizational success. While recognizing the signs of an ergonomically unsound office is the first step, addressing these concerns with a professional ergonomic assessment is the key to fostering a safer, more productive workspace.

For a quarter of a century, Solutions Northwest Inc. has championed the cause of ergonomic excellence in Seattle, Portland, and Olympia, WA – assisting countless businesses in creating healthier and more efficient workspaces. If you’ve spotted any of the red flags mentioned in this article in your office or are just looking to optimize your workspace for the better, don’t delay. Entrust your ergonomic needs to our seasoned ergonomic consultants, who bring both expertise and a passion for creating comfortable work environments.

Not based in the Pacific Northwest or need help with remote workers? Consider our Virtual Ergonomics Assessment available nationwide, a solution is always within reach.

Don’t compromise on your staff’s well-being and the overall efficiency of your workspace. Contact Solutions Northwest Inc. today and elevate your office environment. For ongoing insights and ergonomics tips, consider subscribing to our blog. Remember, a healthier office is just a consultation away!

 

Contact the Ergonomics Experts at Solutions Northwest Inc. Below:

Multiple Locations

Corporate Office: 120 State Ave. NE #397
Olympia, WA 98501
Business Hours: 8am-5pm M-F
Corporate FAX: 360-866-4773
Email: Info@solutionsnw.com

Olympia, WA

360-236-8748

Portland/Salem, OR

503-768-9742

Seattle, WA

206-521-5676

Contact our Ergonomics Experts

The Importance of Disability Management Consulting

The Importance of Disability Management Consulting

The Importance of Disability Management Consulting

Did you know that about 61 million Americans live with a disability? With so many people in the United States suffering from a disability, you may end up hiring someone that has a disability. Contact Vocational Consultants for Assessments on Worker Compensation Seattle Washington

In this situation, you need to know what you are legally responsible to provide as an employer. Also, you may need some help to get a better idea of how to efficiently run this work environment. 

If this is the case with your company, then disability management consulting is what you need. 

What is disability management? How will your company make it work? 

This is your guide. 

Knowing ADA Requirements 

The first thing that you should do is familiarize yourself with ADA requirements. For those of you that do not know, this is the Americans with Disabilities Act. 

This act helps give people with disabilities not only more rights in the workplace, but in public businesses in general. 

An example could be having access to proper toilets. Every business of a certain size has to have at least one handicap accessible bathroom. If you are using porta potties for an outdoor event, at least 5% of them need to have that handicap access. 

However, this is not limited to just toilets. Public businesses may be required to install ramps to fit the needs of those with a disability. 

Contact Vocational Consultants for Assessments on Worker Compensation Seattle WashingtonNow, let’s take this need to an office. Wider spaces may need to be arranged to allow open access to someone with a disability. 

On top of this, if someone requires a service dog to get around, then a business has to comply with that. Also, access to things to enhance communication such as closed caption may be of use as well. 

Disability Management

Now that we have discussed the requirements of certain businesses to be accommodating, let’s dive into disability management. When a business hires someone with a disability, they cannot fire a person for that reason. If they do, it can lead to a discrimination lawsuit. 

So, there needs to be solutions and active efforts made to accommodate the person that has a disability. One way that you can do this is by assigning jobs that may be easier for that person to do. 

For example, if someone is in a wheelchair, have them do a job like data entry that does not force them to leave the computer much. Or, if someone has difficulty hearing, perhaps do not put them on customer service or sales calls. 

Related article: “Disability Leave Services: Short Term vs Long Term

Get Disability Management Consulting

These are a few things that you need to be aware of in the workplace. Your business needs to accommodate not only customers coming in that might have a disability, but also potential employees as well. If you do, you can create a more inclusive workspace and avoid a discrimination lawsuit. 

To take a step in the right direction, your company may need disability management consulting.  If you need expert consultation, contact one of our vocational experts today to get one-on-one assistance. 

At Solutions Northwest Inc., our vocational experts are involved in  ADA Accommodations , personal injury, workers’ compensation, and family law.

Contact us today to make an appointment.

Subscribe to our blog for more work related tips from Solutions Northwest, Inc., experts available in: Seattle, WA, Tacoma, WA, Olympia, WA, Vancouver, WA, Kent, WA Renton, WA, Beaverton, WA.

Contact the Vocational Consultants at Solutions Northwest Inc. Below:

Multiple Locations

Corporate Office: 120 State Ave. NE #397
Olympia, WA 98501
Business Hours: 8am-5pm M-F
Corporate FAX: 360-866-4773
Email: Info@solutionsnw.com

Seattle, WA

206-521-5676

Portland/Salem, OR

503-768-9742

Olympia, WA

360-236-8748

Contact our Vocational Consultants

How to Use an Ergonomics Assessment Form to Maximize Office Efficiency

How to Use an Ergonomics Assessment Form to Maximize Office Efficiency

How to Use an Ergonomics Assessment Form to Maximize Office Efficiency

How to Use an Ergonomics Assessment Form to Maximize Workplace EfficiencyErgonomics Consultants, Office Assessments, | Solutions Northwest Inc.

Perhaps you’ve received multiple complaints from employees that their workstations are hurting them. And naturally, you begin to panic. When your employees — the lifeblood of your organization — hurt, your bottom-line hurts.

Common health issues stemming from poor workplace ergonomics include sprains, tears, and strains. They also include carpal tunnel and back pain.

The good news is that by making your workplace ergonomic, you can improve the efficiency of your workers.

A good place to start is with an ergonomic assessment form. This form can help you get an idea of what problem areas your office has and begin the process of making your office a safer and more comfortable place to work.

Ergonomic Evaluation Forms Should Address the Height of Each Worker’s Monitor

Your ergonomics checklist should call attention to your employees’ monitor heights at their workstations. This is important because the screen height impacts the neck’s soft tissue.

If monitors are too high or low, consider giving your workers monitor arms. Laptop risers and monitor stands can also help them to adjust their screens’ heights.

Placement of the Mouse

An ergonomic assessment form can also help you to improve your workers’ efficiency by requiring you to assess each worker’s mouse placement.

Every worker should have no problem reaching their mouse while their elbow stays against their body. The elbow shouldn’t extend forward.

If you discover that an employee’s mouse isn’t in a safe position for them, consider giving them a vertical mouse. This type of mouse will allow them to make bigger muscular movements from their upper arm or elbow. This is much better than moving just the wrist, as this may inflame the wrist and quickly cause carpal tunnel.

For employees who are struggling with shoulder comfort, consider introducing trackballs to them. This device will minimize their shoulder movement by keeping it in a relatively neutral position. This solution is best for any employee who moves their mouse forward all day.

Back Support

Finally, your ergonomic assessment form should motivate you to examine your employees’ back support. This is essential given that research shows that more than one-fourth of working adults currently have back pain.

Ergonomics Consultants, Office Assessments, | Solutions Northwest Inc.To prevent or improve back pain due to work, you should give your employees chairs that have numerous seat adjustments. These adjustments should include armrest adjustments. Other adjustments include those for seat depth and height.

With the right chairs, you can reduce your employees’ back pain. This, in turn, can help them to perform better daily.

Consider Hiring an Ergonomics Consultant to Help You Improve Your Efficiency in the Office

A thorough ergonomic assessment form will help your office get an idea of what improvements should be made.

Furthermore, we recommend hiring an ergonomics consultant to ensure this assessment is properly performed by visiting your location in-person. This is a worthwhile investment, as it pays off in the long run with less injuries and better performance from your workesr.

Contact Solutions Northwest Inc. for an ergonomics assessment.

At Solutions Northwest Inc., we are vocational and ergonomics experts. We offer guidance to businesses on how to make their workplaces safe and productive. Contact us to schedule an ergonomics consultation or assessment for your business today.  

Using remote workers?  We offer an affordable virtual ergonomics assessment, which can be done remotely (all you need is access to e-mail or a smart phone).

Subscribe to our ergonomics blog for more ergonomics tips from Solutions Northwest Inc. – ergonomics assessments available in: Seattle, WA, Tacoma, WA, Olympia, WA, Vancouver, WA, Kent, WA Renton, WA, Beaverton, OR, Portland, OR, Salem, OR.

Virtual Ergonomics Assessment available nationwide!

Contact the Ergonomics Experts at Solutions Northwest Inc. Below:

Multiple Locations

Corporate Office: 120 State Ave. NE #397
Olympia, WA 98501
Business Hours: 8am-5pm M-F
Corporate FAX: 360-866-4773
Email: Info@solutionsnw.com

Olympia, WA

360-236-8748

Portland/Salem, OR

503-768-9742

Seattle, WA

206-521-5676

Contact our Ergonomics Experts

When It’s Time to Contact A Vocational Expert Witness

When It’s Time to Contact A Vocational Expert Witness

When It’s Time to Contact A Vocational Expert Witness

When It’s Time to Contact A Vocational Expert Witness
According to the International Labor Organization, roughly 2.3 million workers fall prey to workplace injuries annually. Unfortunately, many of these injuries occur in American workplaces. Damaging accidents can occur in any work Contact Vocational Consultants for Assessments on Worker Compensation Seattle Washingtonenvironment, whether it’s a construction site or an office.

An attorney will help clients find financial compensation for their injuries. However, they will likely need the help of a vocational expert witnesses. These professionals can testify about the extent of a client’s injuries and what kind of work they’ll be able to manage.

We’ll explore the role of these professionals in this guide. Read on to find the answers you need!

Why Hire Vocational Expert Witnesses?

A vocational expert is a professional with in-depth knowledge regarding two things:

  1. the industry the client works in
  2. medical information, especially as it relates to that industry

These experts play a critical role in determining how much money a client should receive in an injury settlement.

Some claimants will exaggerate their injuries to get a higher settlement. Many suspect a claimant’s lawyer will play along with that claim to make more money. That’s where an expert witness comes in.

This witness can provide a third-party testimony that backs up a client’s case and testify about the extent of a client’s injuries.

Then, they can use their industry knowledge to testify on whether said client will be able to work again. Likewise, they can estimate what work a client can perform with this injury.

How do Vocational Witnesses Reach Their Conclusions?

The key to a vocational witness’ testimony is vocational assessments.

This assessment’s goal is to gauge the severity of a client’s injury. From there, they can deduce whether any lingering disabilities will impair their ability to work in their industry.

Contact Vocational Consultants for Assessments on Worker Compensation Seattle WashingtonOnce they conduct their personal injury vocational evaluation, they’ll refer to the Dictionary of Occupational Titles. This dictionary classifies various types of jobs that people can work.

From there, the vocational expert will determine what category of jobs the client can potentially work. This information can assist the client with finding work once their court case concludes. Likewise, it helps you determine the size of a client’s settlement.

When Should You Hire a Vocational Expert Witness?

Not all personal injury cases require an expert witness. Instead, there are generally two scenarios that make these witnesses necessary.

First, there may not be enough evidence that a client’s injuries will prevent them from returning to work. An expert witness can demonstrate that this is the case.

Second, there may be complicated evidence that requires a professional explanation. In these cases, expert witnesses can break down the evidence in a way that judges understand.

Hire a Vocational Expert Witness

As you can see, vocational expert witnesses play a critical role in personal injury cases. They can play a deciding factor in determining whether a client gets their required settlement.

More importantly, they can help workers find stable work after the court case. That’s the task our services prioritize!

Solutions Northwest, Inc. specializes in stay-at-work solutions. We strive to help our clients continue to make a living after court.

We also provide top-notch legal consultation services. In addition to worker’s compensation and personal injury cases, we provide a family law vocational assessment as well. Schedule a consultation with our team today!

Subscribe to our blog for more work related tips from Solutions Northwest, Inc., experts available in: Seattle, WA, Tacoma, WA, Olympia, WA, Vancouver, WA, Kent, WA Renton, WA, Beaverton, WA.

Contact the Vocational Consultants at Solutions Northwest Inc. Below:

Multiple Locations

Corporate Office: 120 State Ave. NE #397
Olympia, WA 98501
Business Hours: 8am-5pm M-F
Corporate FAX: 360-866-4773
Email: Info@solutionsnw.com

Seattle, WA

206-521-5676

Olympia, WA

360-236-8748

Portland/Salem, OR

503-768-9742

Contact our Vocational Consultants

What to Look for When Shopping for the Best Ergonomic Workstation

What to Look for When Shopping for the Best Ergonomic Workstation

What to Look for When Shopping for the Best Ergonomic Workstation

What to Look for When Shopping for the Best Ergonomic WorkstationErgonomics Consultants, Office Assessments, | Solutions Northwest Inc.

What do remote work and office work have in common? They both carry the same risk of suffering a strain injury.

We are, of course, talking about ergonomics. Without a workstation that keeps the body in a neutral position, staying comfortable is all but impossible. The only question is which part of your body will start hurting first.

Not sure how to create the best ergonomic workstation for your needs? Start by investing in these three essential ergonomic upgrades!

Comfortable Ergonomic Chair

Let’s do a small test. Sit in your chair and press your back against the backrest. Are there any gaps between the chair and your spine?

If the answer is yes, you need a better office chair. Your back has a natural S-curve, and the chair needs to support it. An ergonomic chair will also have lumbar support for your lower back and a comfortable cushion.

These desks should be considered a long term investment as it will pay off with increased comfort and safety as well as improve productivity.

Related Article: “Why Every Business Needs an Ergonomics Assessment

Ergonomic Standing Desk

When you’re working at a desk, your wrists and arms should be parallel to the floor. At most, they need to be slightly angled down toward your lap.

The issue: most desks are 28-30” high, which puts people who are 5’10” or above in an awkward position. One solution: raise your chair to keep your wrists above the desk. You can also mount a keyboard tray under your desk.

No matter what you do, though, you won’t find the optimal height for all five main office tasks. These include:

  • typing
  • writing
  • viewing your screen
  • using the mouse
  • reading documents

Since these all require different heights, your best bet is to get an adjustable-height standing desk. That way, you can switch between sitting and standing to stay comfortable throughout the day.

Related article: “Standing vs Sitting at Your Desk

Ergonomics Consultants, Office Assessments, | Solutions Northwest Inc.Responsive Peripherals

The mouse and keyboard are also key parts of any ergonomic workplace. If they’re not comfortable, they’ll put stress on your wrists and shoulders.

A good mouse should fit your hand and be smooth to maneuver. If you can’t find a mouse that doesn’t cause you fatigue, consider another input device. For instance, a trackball will keep your hand in a neutral position.

As for the keyboard, look for a split model. Standard keyboards force your hands inwards, which causes you to hunch your shoulders. Split keyboards allow you to space each half and keep your shoulders relaxed.

Not a fan of split keyboards? Get a standard keyboard that either tilts forward or has a low, flat profile. Both types will help keep your wrists neutral.

Related article: “5 Benefits of Using an Ergonomic Mouse and Keyboard

Setting up the Best Ergonomic Workstation

Do you or your employees spend a big part of the day working at a desk? If so, neglecting workplace ergonomics can harm one’s health. Follow the above guide and begin your journey into creating an injury free workspace.

At Solutions Northwest Inc., we understand that ensuring that you and your employees are following ergonomic workstation guidelines can be tricky. Generally, best practice is to have an ergonomic assessment done by an ergonomics consultant – and our consultants at Solutions Northwest Inc. are here to help! Contact us here to schedule an ergonomic assessment or learn more about our services.

We can even help you if you have a lot of remote workers by setting up their workspaces with an affordable, virtual ergonomics assessment, which can be done remotely (all you need is access to e-mail or a smart phone).

For more information contact us at SolutionsNW.com, we will be happy to help you!

Subscribe to our ergonomics blog for more ergonomics tips from Solutions Northwest Inc., ergonomics evaluations available in: Seattle, WA, Tacoma, WA, Olympia, WA, Vancouver, WA, Kent, WA Renton, WA, Beaverton, OR, Portland, OR, Salem, OR.

Virtual Ergonomics Assessment available nationwide!

Contact the Ergonomics Experts at Solutions Northwest Inc. Below:

Multiple Locations

Corporate Office: 120 State Ave. NE #397
Olympia, WA 98501
Business Hours: 8am-5pm M-F
Corporate FAX: 360-866-4773
Email: Info@solutionsnw.com

Olympia, WA

360-236-8748

Portland/Salem, OR

503-768-9742

Seattle, WA

206-521-5676

Contact our Ergonomics Experts

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