Five Reasons Why Your Business Should Implement Ergonomics
Five Reasons Why Your Business Should Implement Ergonomics
Ergonomics, also known as “human engineering,” aims to design a workplace to fit its users’ physical limitations and capabilities. This, in turn, will increase their comfort and ability to work effectively. Many companies don’t consider the importance of ergonomics and assume it’s an unnecessary luxury. But the reality is that ergonomics is actually a wise investment in your business that will aid in its success. Here are five reasons why your company needs an ergonomics program.
1. Ergonomics Decreases Risks for Musculoskeletal Disorders
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are limb and back injuries involving damage to the bones, ligaments, joints, and muscles. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, work-related injuries account for over one-third of all reported MSDs. Repetitive movements, bad postures, overtaxed muscles, and prolonged confinement all lead to chronic musculoskeletal disorders. It’s then no surprise why MSDs are endemic to the workforce.
Ergonomics is the solution to this problem. By designing offices and other work environments to reduce these improper muscle movements and positions, the rate for MSDs will naturally decrease. This, sequentially, will also lower the strain MSDs put on our medical system. Healthier workplace, healthier people, healthier world.
2. Ergonomics Improves Productivity
When you’re uncomfortable and tired, your performance will suffer. Pain and fatigue are distracting. Enhancing your staff’s environment with ergonomics will help them feel more comfortable, alert, and focused. As a result, you will see heightened productivity and higher quality work.
3. Ergonomics Boosts a Company’s Brand
When you take the time to implement an ergonomics program in your business, it shows that you care. You value your employees’ well-being, listen to the science, and invest in your company’s future. This speaks volumes about who you are as a business. Your staff and your clientele will view you in a positive light.
4. Ergonomics Lowers Employee Turnover
When a job causes someone pain and discomfort or even puts their health at risk, it’s no surprise when they put in their 2-week notice. However, when staff feel valued and experience a pleasant work environment, they’re more likely to have job satisfaction. Improving your staff’s well-being through ergonomics will increase your company’s job retention rate.
5. Ergonomics Reduces Costs
Since MSDs make up a large portion of work-related injuries, there’s a pretty high chance you’ll experience the repercussions of this in your business. A single musculoskeletal injury can rack up between $48,000 and $67,000 in costs, including workers’ compensation, legal expenses, and any money you could lose from work interruption and bad publicity. Low productivity and high turnover may also be silently costing your company. By implementing ergonomics, you could potentially be saving your business thousands of dollars.
E3 Consulting Can Help Your Business Implement Ergonomics
When a workspace is engineered to suit its employees’ needs, it will increase their chances for success. It’s simple: better work environment, better employee performance, better business outcome. If you don’t know where to start, E3 Consulting can put your business on the right track. And it doesn’t have to be complicated. Something as simple as switching to standing desks can greatly improve your ergonomic status. At E3, we offer a variety of ergonomic programs and solutions to best fit your company. Call us today to learn more.
