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Ergonomic applications in the workplace are necessary for various business, health, and reputational reasons. There is an inherent responsibility to ensure any office or workspace is as safe as possible, reduces risk, and includes every employee. Here are a few to consider.
Reducing the Risk of Serious Injury
When you use a specific piece of equipment for a long period or perform the same task over and over, there is a risk of repetitive strain injury, also known as RSI. RSI can be treated, and the symptoms will go away. However, without ergonomic equipment, it will come back and can lead to more severe issues such as carpal tunnel syndrome. A comfortable chair, form-fitting equipment, and specially designed IT equipment are often all it takes to reduce the chances.
Contributing to Legal Compliance
Employers have legal responsibilities to ensure the workplace is as safe as possible. Reducing RSI and other issues related to a poor working environment can land a business in hot water with compliance. Even if your workers do their jobs from home, it can be prudent to provide them with what they need, such as adjustable equipment like desks, chairs, and monitor stands. There are so many compliance issues to worry about these days. Do you really want another?
Ergonomic Applications Reduce Costs
No worker’s health should be placed below revenue. It is a fact that a poor workplace environment with things like bad lighting are a factor in common problems. This includes absenteeism, reduced productivity and insurance costs. A survey in the UK found that over 400,000 workers suffer from RSI, which has a direct impact on costs due to the loss of over 4 million working days each year. Small investments can help reduce the associated costs.
Mental Focus and Productivity
Can you work at your best levels with searing pain and uncomfortable conditions? Employees should be provided all they need to do their jobs well and unrestricted. Workers who are comfortable will perform better. You aren’t responsible for personal issues, but you can do more to ensure they are safe while at work. Ergonomics mainly relates to the physical working environment. But it also extends to aiding mental health, and this can be as simple as breaks!
Enhanced EDI Metrics
With fluid ergonomics, everyone can be included in the workplace unrestricted. This means enhancing the office, shop floor, or even the home for disabled employees. For example, there are specially-made mouse and keyboard sets for people with mobility issues. The wider environment is also taken into consideration, and wider desks and working spaces are a good example. Easier access to cubicles, for example, can accommodate bulky wheelchairs.
Summary
Reducing painful issues like RSI can be helped with ergonomic applications across the workplace. This includes things like adjustable chairs. Costs are also reduced as fewer people will take time off because of serious injuries such as RSI. Additionally, your business will maximize EDI metrics by making the workplace safer and more accessible to disabled workers.
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