Ergonomics, otherwise known as the science of work, examines the interaction of humans with their work environment. Furthermore, ergonomics is also concerned with the ways in which the office environment can be altered so that the people who work in it are as comfortable and efficient as possible.
Why should your company care about ergonomics?
By paying attention to office ergonomics, companies can effectively reduce the amount of sick-leave days taken by their employees, and boost productivity. Eye-strain from staring at a monitor for too long, back aches from incorrect posture, and other ailments from hunching over for eight hours a day can all lead to long-term health problems, and result in achy, uncomfortable employees.
A brief history of ergonomics
Ergonomics can be traced back to Ancient Greek times, where Hippocrates described the ideal design of surgeon’s tools and required posture for optimal work performance. Indeed, the term “ergonomics” is derived from the Ancient Greek word “ergon”, meaning work, and “nomos”, meaning natural law.
Ergonomics rose to prominence as a scientific discipline in the 1940’s during World War 2, where researchers attempted to reduce the risk of human error by those operating ever-more complex technology and machinery. In 1949, the Ergonomics Research Society was founded in the UK, the first organisation of its kind in the world.
Ergonomics in the office – Measures to implement
- Desks need to be properly levelled to each employee’s height. This reduces the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome, a painful condition that occurs in the wrists and can result from typing at an awkward angle for long periods of time.
- Employees should also be encouraged to move from their desk every hour, or failing that, take a brisk stroll in their lunch break. It is important that desk workers stretch their limbs and give their backs a break. Taking a walk has the added benefit of clearing the mind and refreshing one’s attention span.
- Invest in specially-designed ergonomic equipment and furniture designed with the user’s comfort in mind. Office chairs, for instance, should provide good lumbar support, and have an adjustable height. They should also be sufficiently padded for comfort, contain both a backrest and armrests, and be able to swivel so that the user can reach items around them.
- Positioning is also important. Monitors should be placed so that the worker does not strain their neck craning to look at the screen. Keyboards and mice, meanwhile, need to be positioned so that your elbows are kept close to your sides, in order to reduce muscle load and strain. There are plenty of guides available detailing the specifics of setting up an ergonomic workstation – do take advantage of them.
- If you’re prepared to spend a tad more money, there are a number of fancy ergonomic items available for the office. Microsoft has just released a new ergonomic keyboard, designed to minimise strain during an 8 hour day spent typing at a computer. You can also invest in special wall/desk mounts for desk monitors, as well as wrist rests for tired arms. If you really feel the urge to splash out, an office massage chair would certainly go down a treat.
- Employee lounges are greatly beneficial in that they provide a space for your workers to sit back and relax, and enjoy lunch or coffee breaks without being cooped up at their desks.
Ergonomic Office Options
This bright Camden office, with a comfortable lounge featuring bean bag chairs, is perfect for employees wishing to take a break or engage in an informal brainstorming session.
The Vista Centre in South West London, meanwhile, contains a fantastic on-site swimming pool and fully equipped gym, for those employees wishing to stretch out their muscles and get some invigorating exercise.
This business centre in Marylebone features a fantastic, well-lit conservatory on the top of the third floor, where workers can enjoy their lunch breaks in comfortable couches.
Finally, Greycoat Place in Victoria contains a stylish, inviting lounge, large windows and plenty of space. In addition, all these business centres are surrounded by retail establishments, parks and amenities,which provides a great incentive for employees to take a walk during their lunch breaks, either to run errands, grab a cup of coffee or simply enjoy the fresh air.