Ergonomics and Office Furniture Safety
When you think about workplace safety, do you only picture slippery walkways or fire drills? Safety goes beyond emergencies—it includes creating a comfortable, ergonomic office that protects employees from strain and injuries caused by poor posture or improper furniture setups.
Ensuring Ergonomics and Safety in Your Office
There are many benefits to workplace ergonomics, including increased employee productivity, safety, and engagement. An ergonomic desk or workstation is designed for better posture, fewer unnecessary movements, and optimum height. For example, a desk monitor should be situated so the screen’s top is at, or slightly below, eye level. This way, your eyes will look slightly downward when viewing the middle of the screen, which is more natural and comfortable. Read on to learn more about ergonomic office furniture tips.
The Importance of Ergonomics in the Office
Office ergonomics play a vital role in reducing overall discomfort and strain, preventing back and neck pain, and reducing carpal tunnel syndrome. By minimizing pain and discomfort, employees are less likely to miss work. In addition, a comfortable work environment can increase job satisfaction. Here are some things to consider when choosing office furniture that will make employees happy.
Choosing Ergonomic Office Furniture
When selecting ergonomic office furniture, like desks and chairs, make sure to consider support, adjustability, and durability. Employees come in varying heights, weights, and postures, so there cannot be a “one size fits all” office furniture option. Here are details to help you select ergonomic desks and chairs that will benefit you and your employees’ well-being.
Adjustable Chairs: Office chairs that provide proper lumbar support can help maintain the spine’s natural curve while sitting. And, let’s face it, we sit a lot while working! In addition, adjustable armrests can prevent shoulder hunching, while footrests create improved leg and feet comfort.
Adjustable Desks: An office desk should be adjustable to fit the employee’s height. And don’t assume everyone wants to sit all day. Standing desks offer many health and ergonomic benefits like improved posture and reduced back pain. Adjustable height desks are the most flexible option as they can be raised or lowered throughout the workday, as needed for comfort.
Safety Precautions for Office Furniture
As previously explained, providing ergonomic office furniture to employees is one way to promote health and wellness at work. Other ways to ensure a safe workplace are to properly position and secure heavy furniture and keep all work areas clean and clear of any obstacles. Here is more information about safety measures to prevent accidents at the office.
● Secure Furniture: Heavy office furniture, like freestanding shelving units, should be securely fastened to the wall to prevent accidents or injuries as a result from falling over. In addition, never place heavy items on the top shelves or in the top drawers to help prevent the furniture from tipping.
● Clear Pathways: Keeping office pathways clear of obstacles is essential for employee safety by preventing trips and falls while also ensuring an efficient flow of movement. This is especially important in the event of an emergency when clear exit routes are vital!
● Organize Cords: Cable ties or zip ties are easy solutions for keeping cords organized and out of the way. Use cable trays, sleeves, or boxes to group large bundles of cords, or route cords behind furniture and along walls.
After making safety improvements, regular inspections of work areas, maintaining clean and clutter-free workspaces, and encouraging a “safety-first” mindset at the office will ensure that the safety efforts continue.
Having a safe workplace involves more than simply practicing a fire drill plan. It’s understanding that something as simple and easy as adding lumbar support to a chair can help eliminate fatigue and back strain. From small adjustments, like proper monitor positioning at eye level, to purchasing ergonomically designed desks, a safe and healthy workplace can significantly reduce the likelihood of work-related injuries.
