Setting Up An Ergonomic Workstation: How To Do It & Why It Matters
According to the International Ergonomics Association, ergonomics is the scientific discipline related to the understanding of interactions between humans and various machines, as well as the profession of applying principles, data, and methods to optimise human well-being and overall system performance.
With the ever growing amount of time people spend at their desks, the importance of ergonomics at the workstation can not be overstated. Ergo workstations can help minimise discomfort, and the risk of injury all while maximising business functionality and productivity.
Why Should Someone Invest In An Ergonomic Workstation?
The 2023 SafeWork report, revealed that without work-related injuries and illnesses, Australia’s economy would be an average of $28.6 billion stronger. Yet year on year, musculoskeletal disorders are the leading cause of workers’ compensation claims in Australia, accounting for more than half of all claims.
This goes to show just how good ergonomics in the workstation can completely revolutionise your business. Research has shown that effective office ergonomics interventions reduce the number of musculoskeletal problems by an average of 61%, reduce lost workdays by 88% and reduce staff turnover by 87% – and strikingly, the cost-to-benefit ratio of ergonomics in the workstation is on average 1:1.78 with a payback period of 0.4 years.
By investing in an ergonomic workstation, employers will be able to drive employee well-being and help foster a healthier, more engaged workforce. This simple change can boost profitability and productivity in the long-term and demonstrate your commitment to staff.
The Benefits of An Ergonomic Workstation
Ergonomics in the workstation can help the entire business unit thrive. By investing in safer equipment that has the employee in mind, these workstations can help your team tap into their potential.
1. Improved health and well-being
Around 1 in 6 Australians have back pain, with ergo workstations being able to help mitigate this risk. Ergonomics in the workstation can improve posture and minimise muscle strain creating better working conditions for your team. This design is often built in line with occupational health and safety standards, but is most importantly done to ensure your team is as comfortable and healthy as possible.
2. Increased productivity
Higher quality equipment can result in fewer injuries and increased comfort. Furthermore, studies have shown that better ergonomics can increase productivity by up to 25%. This means that your team can stay focused on the task at hand more often and help improve your company’s bottom line.
3. Boost employee engagement and morale
When pain and discomfort decreases, output, engagement, and morale can improve. According to Forbes, highly engaged teams increase profitability by 21%.
More so, by setting up an ergonomic workstation that focuses on your employee’s needs, it tells your team just how much they matter to you. This is an excellent backdrop for a positive working environment and culture.
4. Cost-efficient
An ergo workstation can also result in overall cost savings in the long-run. It can reduce healthcare expenses, lower absenteeism rates, and improve productivity rates, resulting in overall cost savings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Purchasing Ergonomic Workstations
When investing in ergo workstations, there are a variety of factors to look out for to ensure maximise productivity. It is also important to ensure that you are getting the most value out of your set up. The following are the most common mistakes that you should look out for.
1. Not considering your teams’ needs
When you begin setting up your ergonomic workstation, it is important you consider how you and your team use your office space. Begin thinking about how many people work at your office, what type of work is done, and how much space each person needs to do your job comfortably.
Once you do this, you can start to accommodate everyone’s personal needs and ensure that they feel comfortable with their new equipment.
2. Focusing only on cost
While ergo workstations are expensive, choosing the cheapest option can often lead to subpar results. However, that doesn’t mean that the most expensive furniture will immediately lead to an optimal workstation either.
It is important that you invest in high-quality furniture that suits your team’s needs that is both comfortable and durable. Should you opt-in low grade furniture, you will also likely spend just as much in the long-term as you’ll have to replace it more often.
3. Overlooking flexibility
The key to an ergonomic workstation is adjustability. It is important that chairs, desks, and accessories offer a wide range of adjustments to accommodate different body types and working styles. This is essential for maintaining comfort and preventing future injuries, especially if you’re looking for your employees to grow with you.
4. Forgetting to ‘try before you buy’
Ergonomic workstations are all about what works best for you and your team. While that may also mean being visually appealing, it is also important it is comfortable and high-quality. That’s why we always recommend visiting showrooms to make sure that this furniture fits the bill and matches both comfort and functionality.
5. Failing to consider the overall workspace
Ergonomics extends beyond each individual workstation. We recommend considering the entire office layout, including lighting, noise levels, and common areas to identify just how you can help your employees thrive.
A holistic approach to ergonomics can result in 33% happier employees, decrease employee turnover by 58% and increase revenue by 33% according to scientific research.
How Integrity Office Can Help With Your Ergonomic Workstation
With over 30 years of experience, Integrity Office has been setting up ergonomic workstations across Victoria. Our in-house consultants can help deliver customised, sustainable, and high-quality solutions to ensure your workplace is as comfortable as possible for your team.
Set Up Your Office Workstation
Your team will spend an average of a third of their life in the workplace. Ergonomics in the workstation plays a vital role in ensuring that your team are not just productive, but are also healthy, comfortable, and happy during their years with your company. The benefits of an ergo workstation are endless, as it allows you to build a more positive working culture with a more engaged team.
With the support of Integrity Office, you can help provide comprehensive services to help you achieve an ergonomic and efficient workspace, ensuring long-term success and improved well-being for your team. Get in touch now to learn more.