Why Ergonomic Office Furniture Matters

Were you aware that the average American worker is productive for only 3 hours daily? In a study of 2,000 full-time workers, it was revealed that many workers are not working for the majority of the time they’re on the job. The average person works approximately 8.8 hours daily, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Why are most employees' productivity so low? Is it lack of motivation? Actually, it runs much deeper than motivation - it has to do with lack of ergonomics in the workplace.

What is Ergonomics and Why is it Necessary?

Ergonomics is known as the study of an individual's efficiency in their working environment. In an office environment, ergonomic equipment (chairs, desks, computer monitors, workstations, etc.) is utilized to improve safety, health, comfort and a person’s level of performance.

Statistics have proven that employees who work in an ergonomic-friendly environment are more productive. Here are a few more benefits of adopting a more ergonomic office environment:

• Health insurance and workers’ compensation costs are reduced. Employees are less likely to experience work-related illnesses or injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, back pain, headaches, and etc.
• Improved job retention. There is a lower turnover. The cost of hiring and retaining employees can be expensive.
• Employees are healthier and less likely to call off due to illness or work injuries. When employees take off, you experience a loss in productivity.

How to Make Your Office More Ergonomically Friendly

Comfort plays a major role in employee satisfaction and productivity. Making your office more ergonomic will first require upgrading your office furniture to more ergonomically-friendly furnishings. Here are a few items to start off with:

Ergonomic Chairs

Chairs that are ergonomic can help relieve an even prevent fatigue, muscle pain, back pain and neck pain. A chair that’s comfortable can actually improve a person’s focus.

An example of a comfortable chair is one with custom seating that promotes good posture, mesh material for breathability and chairs that are adjustable for height.

Standing Desks

Standing desks allow you to alternate between standing and sitting. Contrary to popular belief, sitting at a desk for 8 hours a day is not comfortable. In fact, sitting for long periods of time is actually unhealthy. Studies have shown that alternating between sitting and standing can help prevent chronic disease and even increase a person’s life expectancy.

At Eco Office, we provide both new and refurbished standing desks.

Wrist Pads

Repeat strain on the hands and wrists, from using a mouse or keyboard - day in and out - can cause painful injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Using an ergonomic wrist pad, such as one with memory foam or gel can help prevent strain.

Eye Level Computer Monitor

An ergonomic computer monitor that’s adjustable can help prevent eye strain, neck pain and lower back pain. As a general rule, a computer monitor should be slightly lower than a person’s eye level and at least 30 inches away from the eyes.

As you can see, ergonomics is a great idea. When employees have access to an ergonomically-friendly work environment, they are more likely to thrive because they are happier, healthier and more productive. As a result, companies save money and they’re more likely to achieve their bottom-line.