Proper ergonomics in the workplace is important for several reasons. Here are some of the benefits of implementing ergonomic practices:
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Reduced risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs): Ergonomics can help reduce the risk of MSDs, which affect the muscles, nerves, blood vessels, ligaments, and tendons. When workers are exposed to awkward postures, extreme temperatures, or repeated movements, their musculoskeletal system can be affected, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, discomfort, and pain. By providing ergonomically designed chairs, desks, other furniture, and adjustable workstations, employers can help ensure that employees remain healthy and productive.
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Increased productivity: Ergonomic workstations can help workers feel less tension in their body, allowing them to focus on their tasks and be more productive. By designing a job to allow for good posture, less exertion, fewer motions, and better heights and reaches, the workstation becomes more efficient.
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Improved quality: Poor ergonomics can lead to frustrated and fatigued workers that don’t do their best work. When the job task is too physically taxing on the worker, they may not perform their job like they were trained, which could create a product quality issue. By contrast, ergonomic solutions will often improve quality.
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Increased employee engagement: Ergonomics shows a company’s commitment to safety and health as a core value. The cumulative effect of the previous benefits of ergonomics is a stronger safety culture for a company. Healthy employees are more engaged and productive, leading to a better work environment.
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Reduced absenteeism: Ergonomics leads to healthy and pain-free workers who are more likely to be engaged and productive. By reducing physical and mental stress, ergonomics can help improve employee satisfaction and reduce absenteeism.
In summary, proper ergonomics in the workplace is essential for creating a safe, healthy, and productive work environment. By investing in ergonomic practices, employers can reduce the risk of MSDs, increase productivity, improve quality, increase employee engagement, and reduce absenteeism.
