Office Ergonomics

As a business owner, the well-being of your employees is of the utmost importance not only for minimizing insurance costs, but also for maintaining a healthy, productive work environment. Preventative measures against health issues can save you huge amounts of money in the long run by providing employees with proper equipment.
According to OSHA, 34% of all lost workdays are due to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), or issues pertaining to the joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, limbs, back, and neck. Research has shown that the following equipment measures minimize risk of MSDs and both minimize insurance rates and provide your employees with a healthy workplace.

• Convert Laptops and Tablets into Desktops External Keyboards, Computer Mice, and Monitors when possible.

While not particularly expensive, the use of USB keyboards and computer mice gives employees a much healthier range of motion and posture. Adding an external monitor when possible can also provide employees with the comfort of a desktop computer while they’re at the office. While laptops provide the convenience of a computer on the go, their compact design also makes long-term use very awkward and straining on the hands, arms, and neck.

• Properly Angled Computer Monitors

Staring at a screen for 8 hours will leave anyone wanting to get up and stretch, but it shouldn’t lead to chronic neck pain. Be sure to tweak every monitor’s angle so that the screen is at or slightly below the employee’s eye level to maintain proper posture and prevent the dreaded “turtle neck” posture.

• Flat Shoes

While office fashionistas may enjoy the glamor of heels, regular heel use (especially when standing or walking for long periods of time) may lead to serious strain on the feet and ankles. Encourage workers to wear flat shoes at least a few days per week in order to protect against injury. The addition of a footrest at their chair for flat shoe days where their feet may not touch the ground can also reduce risk.

• Properly Adjusted Desk Chairs

While studies have shown that several fad alternatives to office chairs such as the exercise ball and standing desk are ineffective at best and hazardous at worst, ergonomics experts find that a well-adjusted office chair is second to none. With how expensive office chairs are, ensure that all of your employees are making full use of its features by adjusting the height, armrests, and seat pan to ensure maximum comfort and productivity.
Are you considering an upgrade to your office equipment? Give us a call at 203.439.2815 to find out how it will affect your insurance rates.