Ergonomic Office Benefits – how to boost Business & Employee Performance & Wellbeing

Table of Contents

Sitting is the new smoking.

It may sound like an exaggeration. But it isn’t. Studies show that sitting for long periods of time can negatively affect health (including an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes).

This is just one of the reasons why an ergonomic office environment is essential for both businesses and employees.

Now, the benefits of ergonomic offices for employees are numerous.

But organisations often see it as just being forced to get cushy chairs for their employees.

Studies, however, suggest that the benefits for business are also huge.

75% reduction in absenteeism
56% reduction in error rates
15% increase in productivity
50% reduction in workers’ compensation claims for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)
80% decline in employee turnover

Not sure how all that happens with investment in ergonomic seating?

Well, then strap on your seatbelts. We’re about to explore the world of workplace ergonomics!

Benefits of Ergonomic Offices for Employees

1. Reduced risk of injury

Ergonomic design reduces physical strain, reducing the risk of workplace injuries.

2. Increased productivity

Ergonomic design improves comfort and efficiency, allowing employees to work more productively.

3. Improved posture

Ergonomic design promotes proper posture, reducing strain on the body and preventing injuries.

4. Reduced physical discomfort

Ergonomic design reduces physical discomfort and fatigue. Hence, reducing the incidence of aches and pains in the body.

5. Enhanced job satisfaction

Ergonomic design improves comfort and reduces stress. Thus, leading to higher job satisfaction and motivation.

6. Increased creativity

Ergonomic design improves comfort and reduces stress. Thus, leading to higher job satisfaction and motivation.

7. Better communication

Ergonomic design promotes a comfortable and conducive working environment. Hence, improving communication and collaboration among employees.

8. Enhanced work-life balance

Ergonomic design includes flexible and supportive furniture, equipment, and work arrangements. These contribute towards better work-life balance for employees.

9. Improved mood

Ergonomic design reduces physical discomfort and stress. Thus, improving the mood and emotional well-being of employees.

Benefits of Ergonomic Offices for Businesses

1. Reduced absenteeism

Fewer missed work days due to injuries, leading to increased productivity and profitability.

2. Increased profitability

Higher productivity leads to increased output and profitability for the organisation.

3. Reduced workers’ compensation costs

Improved posture and fewer workplace injuries lead to lower workers’ compensation costs. Thus, increased profitability.

4. Reduced healthcare costs

Fewer healthcare costs associated with treating aches and pains, lead to cost savings..

5. Improved employee retention

Higher job satisfaction and motivation lead to increased retention rates and lower turnover.

6. Improved innovation

Increased creativity and innovation in the workplace, leading to improved products and services.

7. Improved teamwork

Increased collaboration and communication among employees, leading to improved team dynamics. And higher-quality work.

8. Improved employee retention

Higher job satisfaction and motivation, leading to increased retention rates and lower turnover.

9. Improved employee engagement

Better mood and emotional well-being result in increased job satisfaction. Leading to better employee engagement.

Gearing up Towards an Ergonomic Office

The benefits of an ergonomic office space design for employees and ultimately organisations are now clear.

It’s time to get started with an office refurbishment towards an ergonomic office design.

Here’s your roadmap.

ergonomic-office-design-ideas

Step 1: Assess Your Workspace

Identify issues or concerns related to ergonomics. It could be furniture/arrangements that lead to poor posture or physical discomfort.
Measure the physical space available. ensure that it is adequate for ergonomic furniture and equipment.

Step 2: Invest in Ergonomic Furniture and Equipment

Purchase ergonomic furniture. Invest in memory foam seats, mini desks, and corner sit/stand desks. Make sure the furniture can be adjusted to fit the individual needs of each employee.
Invest in ergonomic equipment. Look for keyboards, mice, monitors, etc. designed to reduce strain on the body.

Step 3: Promote Proper Posture

Encourage the use of ergonomic furniture and equipment that promotes proper alignment.
Train employees on adequate techniques to consider such as computer screens should be at the same level as the eyes, looking down should be avoided as it will cause neck and back aches etc. Remind them to take frequent breaks to stand up, stretch, and walk to avoid prolonged sitting.

Step 4: Create a Comfortable Environment

Ensure that the office temperature and lighting are comfortable. They should be adjustable as needed.
Install noise-cancelling panels or white noise machines to reduce distracting background noise.

Step 5: Implement Organisational Policies

Educate employees on ergonomics. Conduct training or workshops about the benefits of ergonomic design.
Encourage employees to report any issues related to ergonomics.

Step 6: Monitor and Adjust

Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of your ergonomic office design and adjust as needed.
Monitor employee health and wellness metrics, such as absenteeism and healthcare costs. This will help assess the impact of your ergonomic design.

With that, you are all set to get started toward an ergonomic office design and reap its many advantages. Don’t wait. Start the ergonomic revolution at your organisation today.

Author Profile

Manuela Willbold: Blogger and Educator by Passion | Senior Online Media & PR Strategist at ClickDo Ltd. | Contributor to many Education, Business & Lifestyle Blogs in the United Kingdom & Germany | Summer Course Student at the London School of Journalism and Course Instructor at the SeekaHost University.