The role of workspaces has greatly evolved. Corporates are increasingly understanding the need of providing an ergonomically perfect working environment to its employees and why not if it helps in increasing the employee productivity & ultimately the success of the organization. The workspace needs to be an environment conducive to effective communication & knowledge sharing, as well as physical comfort. Employers need to take in to consideration all areas and aspects of the workplace and how with planning they will undoubtedly create a happier, healthier office and generate greater return on their human investment.
Ergonomics is concerned with the ‘fit’ between people and their work. It takes account of the worker’s capabilities and limitations in seeking to ensure that tasks, equipment, information and the environment suits each worker.
To assess the fit between a person and their work, ergonomists consider the job being done and the demands on the worker; the equipment used (its size, shape, and how appropriate it is for the task), and the information used (how is it presented, accessed, and changed).
The simple answer is to make sure that the body is not compromised at all in the work place. Ensure your body position and posture is conducive to comfort and that you have minimal distraction from physical discomfort. This correct use of the body in the workplace is simply called ‘correct ergonomics’.
To achieve correct ergonomics and reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries, which if not considered can lead to crippling disorders, try the following helpful tips.
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- At your desk, make sure your feet can rest solidly and comfortably on the floor while sitting. Use an adjustable work surface and chair that allow your feet to rest firmly on the floor, or use a footrest.
- Be sure you have sufficient space under your work surface for your knees and legs. Avoid concentrated pressure points along the underside of your thigh near the knee and the backside of your lower leg. Stretch your legs and vary your leg posture throughout the day.
- Get up from your desk frequently and take brief walks. Make sure you vary your leg positions throughout the day. Avoid placing boxes or other items under your desk that limit your legroom.
- When sitting at the computer, adjust your chair height or keyboard height so that your shoulders are relaxed and your elbows hang comfortably at your sides. Adjust your keyboard slope so that your wrists are straight.
- Working at your computer for long periods can be visually demanding task and may cause your eyes to become irritated and fatigued. Give your eyes frequent breaks. Periodically look away from the monitor and focus at a distant point. This may also be a good time to stretch breathe deeply, and relax.
- Break up the routine and try to vary your tasks during the day. By doing so, you may avoid sitting in one position or performing the same activities continuously for several hours using your hands, arms, shoulders, neck, or back. Contrary to what many believe; several studies have found that productivity does NOT decline when frequent short breaks are added to the day.
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As every organization wants to increase organization-wide efficiency, maintain employee productivity, reduce job-related accidents, and improve customer satisfaction. Utilizing ergonomic principles makes business sense because adjusting jobs to better fit workers supports all of the relevant points.
Remember, the way you work and the conditions in which you work will definitely affect your effectiveness and efficiency as an employee. Ensuring you are able to control your stress, both physical and psychological, have a balanced daily diet, the ability to rest and recharge your batteries and work in a well planned office environment are major factors in your working life. A little thought in to how you operate as an individual will of course reap rewards for your employer, but most importantly you will be the one leading a happier, healthier working and social life. |
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