An often-ignored science within the scope of a workplace, especially the modern-day offices, is the science of ergonomics which basically revolves around designing and arranging equipment, objects and furniture in a way that enhances human well-being, comfort which are critical towards performance.
The entire spectrum of ergonomics science is focused on the creation of environments that not only fit human capabilities but also limitations which as far as the office worker goes is imperative towards increased efficiency, productivity, and last, but not least ‘safety’. This article explores the key fundamentals and the benefits that stem from ergonomics.
Ergonomics in essence focuses on the various interactions that take place between a human and everything that surrounds them and in most case scenarios places particular emphasis on the workplace configuration. It requires a clear and present understanding of the human anatomy, physiology, and also psychology.
Ergonomic experts examine the way through which humans interact with everything physical around them and subsequently embark on developing practical solutions that improve the individual’s overall experience in the workplace. The main or rather primary importance of ergonomics is proper body alignment, posture and the reduction of strain.
It is generally accepted that it is important to maintain a neutral body posture in order to limit the level of strain exerted on muscles, joints, and ligaments which in turn minimises the risk of musculoskeletal disorders and injuries associated with repetitive strain.
The science of ergonomics takes into consideration factors such as chair height, desk height, monitor placement, and keyboard positioning in order to ensure office workers keep healthy postures throughout a given workday which generally requires long hours of sitting down in front of a computer monitor in most case scenarios.
An ergonomic office chair for instance reduces strain on the back, neck and shoulders considerably compared to a regular office chair which could lead to serious physical problems on the body in the long term.
Other aspects of ergonomics include how tools, equipment, and workstations are designed and arranged, generally all tools and equipment and furniture designed ergonomically are developed with the human body’s comfort in mind.
These designs allow the accommodation of various body sizes, types and abilities. Taking an ergonomic chair as an example, the chair would be customisable to fit the user of the chair and similarly an ergonomic keyboard will be designed to reduce hand and wrist strain.
Ergonomics is all about the optimisation of the workspaces and objectively aims to keep people healthy whilst increase productivity and efficiency at the same time. This is based on the fact that when the office worker is comfortable and feel at ease they are less likely to experience distractions due to discomfort which lead to fatigue.
This basically allows employees to focus on work with better clarity and this in turn allows them to perform their duties much more effectively.
Among the more popular ergonomic items that are popular in most modern-day offices include adjustable office desks, flexible office chairs that come with various seating options, workflow layouts that enhance productivity significantly.
