How Office Ergonomics Can Improve Productivity

In most working environments, productivity is usually seen as one of the most valuable KPIs in a business. Without a productive work environment, results falter, quality declines and as a result, morale drops. This is why many companies, particularly those which are office-based, turn to ergonomics to help improve productivity. Happy, healthy and comfortable staff will drive a business forward.

In this edition of our blog, we look at how you can implement office ergonomics and improve the performance of your business by putting your team first.

What is office ergonomics?

By definition, ergonomics refers to “an applied science concerned with designing and arranging things people use so that the people and the things interact more efficiently and safely.”

When this relates to an office workspace, we take into account desks, chairs, lighting, keyboards and more.

With poor ergonomics, employees using everyday items at work may find themselves more prone to injury. For example, office workers may suffer from neck and back pain due to long periods of sitting. They could also start to experience repetitive strain injuries and joint issues, both of which are common occurrences, especially for those who often work at a desk.

Such injuries or discomfort can lead to increased sick days, slower work performance, poor morale and, as a result, a loss in productivity.

These problems can be combatted by implementing office ergonomics. The cost for this is generally low, but the benefits are far-reaching.

Why are office ergonomics important?

As mentioned above, team members who suffer from injuries, or are frequently uncomfortable in the workplace, are more likely to require sick days or exhibit slower work performance.

By making the necessary adjustments to remove this risk, sick days will be reduced, comfort and accessibility will be increased, and the team’s focus and productivity will return. Simple implementation of improved ergonomics could mean:

• Improved focus
• Higher employee engagement
• A reduction in workplace hazards
• More focus on workplace safety across all departments
• A more positive work environment
• A more comfortable working environment

Will it cost a lot to improve our office ergonomics?

Not necessarily – you don’t have to buy bespoke chairs or source furniture made from specific materials. The end goal is to find items that help keep your team safe, comfortable and focused.

There are specific products available that are created with ergonomics in mind, which could be more expensive in some cases. An ergonomic keyboard, for instance, will likely set you back a little more than a standard one. A desk chair that factors in ergonomic design may also have a premium price tag compared to a regular office chair.

In some cases, expenses can be reduced by simply educating your team on how to improve their posture or how best to use the items they are provided with. Practising good ergonomics often comes down to the individuals’ habits rather than the items they are using that are leading to an increased injury risk.

It is worth taking time to plan an office design layout that delivers ergonomic workstations for each employee. Alternatively, there are specialist design companies available who can be can do this for you.  

What do you need to create an ergonomic office?

When you choose to design an ergonomic office space, you will need to factor in your teams’ needs on a day-to-day basis. Do they sit at a desk for prolonged periods, and do they always work on computers? How frequently they move around the office to communicate with other employees should also be taken into consideration.

By taking the above into account, you can choose which items are needed, what can be discarded and what may require business storage until it is needed at a later date.

Ergonomic office chairs

An ergonomic chair allows full adjustment customisation to match the user’s exact height and level of comfort. Source chairs that have adjustable seats, height and armrests.

Standing desks

Whilst not essential, allowing users to switch from sitting to standing positions will reduce the number of back injuries at work and improve overall health.

Lighting

The combination of office lights and computer screens greatly increase the risk of eye strain and headaches. Look for adjustable lighting to help reduce screen glare – this also ensures that an office space isn’t illuminated more than necessary.

Correct monitor placements

Aim to have all monitors put on desks at eye level and approximately 50 cm from the user. This will minimise neck strain as well as eye damage. You may even need to consider the use of multiple monitors. Where users have more than one screen, these should be positioned next to or close to each other. This will stop excessive neck movements as the user moves from one screen to the next.

Keyboard and mouse

You can invest in ergonomic keyboards or mice to reduce strain on wrists and hands. Look to have them positioned within easy reach, allowing forearms to remain parallel with the floor.

Zero clutter and increased movement

Clearing desk space can help to streamline workflow, allowing for a cleaner, crisper workspace. Not only will this improve workstation aesthetics, but this will encourage movement between your team and any visitors to the office.

This can even be taken a level further by holding in-person meetings where all employees stand at their desks rather than sitting. This could be interspersed with walking breaks to help improve circulation.

By refining your office space, you can not only improve the health and wellbeing of your team, but see that their productivity increases, too.

These benefits are wide-ranging – with improved productivity comes increased revenue, benefitting the business overall. To enhance your workplace with ergonomics, you may require storage to better streamline your office. Our team at Stockroom London is on hand to assist with office furniture storage in our secure facility. If you then wish to sell these items or use them again, a quick and easy retrieval is possible with our free collections and delivery service. Why not contact us today and find out more about our versatile storage options?