Ergonomics is the study of people’s efficiency in their working environment. It aims to design workspaces in order to suit the user’s needs, therefore reducing the risk of injury and increasing productivity. An ergonomic assessment examines various aspects of a workplace to identify potential risks and recommend improvements. These assessments are typically conducted by trained professionals, such as occupational therapists, or physiotherapists.

The goal is to minimise ergonomic risks such as musculoskeletal disorders, which include conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and lower back injuries. By adjusting the workplace to fit the worker, companies can significantly enhance comfort and efficiency.

A typical ergonomic assessment process involves several steps:

• Workstation Review: Evaluating the physical setup of the workstation, such as desk height, chair comfort, and the positioning of key tools like keyboards and monitors.

• Posture Analysis: Assessing the tasks an employee performs and their posture, focusing on movement patterns and frequency of actions to identify injury risks. 
• Risk Assessment: Identifying potential hazards that could lead to injuries and repetitive strains, such as improper seating posture, poor lighting, or equipment that forces unnatural body movements.

• Expert Recommendations: Providing actionable advice on adjustments or equipment changes to improve posture and enhance comfort.

• Reduced Risk of Injury: Proper ergonomics help minimise the risks of musculoskeletal problems, including back and neck pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and tendonitis.

• Increased Comfort: Adjustments to the workstation can lead to reduced pain and discomfort, which is important to long-term health and overall well-being.

• Enhanced Productivity: Comfortable employees are more productive, as they are less distracted by discomfort and can focus better on their tasks.

• Lower Healthcare Costs: By reducing the risk of workplace injuries, ergonomic assessments can decrease the need for medical services and associated costs with workers compensation.

• Decreased Absenteeism: Healthier employees are less likely to take time off due to illness or injury.

• Improved Morale and Job Satisfaction: Employees appreciate a comfortable working environment, which can enhance morale and lead to higher job satisfaction and retention.

While professional assessments are recommended, some basic steps can be undertaken to start improving your workspaces:

Take a critical look at your workstation setup:

• Chair and Desk: Your feet should rest flat on the floor or on a footrest, with your thighs parallel to the floor. Your forearms should be resting on the desk without raising your shoulders.
• Monitor: Your eye level should be viewing the top third of the monitor, and about an arm’s length away.
• Keyboard and Mouse: These should be placed closely that you can use them while keeping your wrists straight and your arms close to your body.

Throughout the day, be mindful of your posture. Ensure that you:

• Maintain a neutral body position with a straight back and shoulders relaxed.
• Avoid slouching or leaning forward excessively.
• Keep your elbows close to your body and bent at a 90-degree angle.
• Take breaks from sitting often if possible.

Based on your observations, start making immediate adjustments:

• Adjust your chair, desk, or monitor to better fit your posture.
• Rearrange tools like keyboard and mouse to reduce strain.
• Enhance lighting or reduce noise if necessary.

Ergonomic assessments are a key tool in creating healthier, more productive workplaces. Not only do these assessments prevent injury and promote health, but they also enhance job satisfaction and overall workplace efficiency. As businesses continue to evolve, the importance of ergonomics in maintaining a sustainable and positive work environment cannot be overstated.

If you’re ready to improve your workplace ergonomics, consider consulting with our experts or starting with a simple self-assessment tool to pinpoint areas for improvement. Remember, a small investment in ergonomics can lead to significant improvements in health, satisfaction, and overall business success.

*The details in this article were correct and current when it was written. However, changes in business practices, policies, and other pertinent areas may have occurred since then. Readers should confirm the current validity of the content on their own.

Stephen Zeng

Stephen is the director and the principal writer at AusRehab, leading workplace rehabilitation provider, with a focus on addressing and resolving workplace injuries.