When it comes to creating a productive, inviting, and comfortable workplace, ergonomics should be at the top of your list. Ergonomics focuses on optimizing a workplace environment to reduce fatigue, discomfort, and injury. It’s the study of how to make people’s work environment as comfortable, efficient, safe, and healthy as possible. To achieve this, selecting the right office furniture is essential.
The Benefits of an Ergonomic Workplace
Emphasis should always be placed on ergonomics when designing a workplace. A workspace design that prioritizes ergonomics not only improves worker satisfaction and productivity, but also minimizes injuries and decreases fatigue. It shows both customers and employees that you care about their well-being and want to create a productive and healthy workplace. A well-designed workplace makes it easy to move around, reach tools and equipment, and maintain good posture. Here are some of the main benefits of investing in ergonomic workplace design:
Improved Comfort & Safety
Ergonomic workplace design helps reduce physical strain, allowing you to work smarter rather than harder. Ergonomic furniture and accessories such as height-adjustable chairs and sit-stand desks, footrests, and wrist supports provide extra comfort and support. By reducing physical strain, you are able to stay productive without putting your health at risk.
Increased Productivity & Focus
When you’re comfortable in your workspace, you’re more likely to stay focused on the task at hand. An ergonomic workplace design allows for better posture, which helps reduce distractions and increase concentration. Ergonomic design also encourages collaboration and communication, as it provides an environment that is conducive to idea sharing and teamwork.
Reduced Risk of Injury
If you’re working in an uncomfortable environment for long periods of time, you’re more likely to suffer from repetitive stress injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome. An ergonomic workplace design helps to reduce strain on your muscles and joints, reducing the risk of injury. In addition, it ensures that any equipment you use is easily accessible, so that you don’t have to stretch or strain to reach it. Ergonomic furniture also helps you stay compliant with OSHA guidelines.
What Office Furniture is Best for an Ergonomic Workplace?
Wondering where to start when it comes to incorporating ergonomic workplace furniture? Here are some of the top office furniture pieces that should be incorporated into any ergonomic workplace design:
Laptop Stands
Working with a laptop can cause neck and back strain, but laptop stands can help alleviate this problem. Laptop stands can be adjusted to any height so that your screen is always at eye level. This will reduce neck strain and help keep your posture correct.
Adjustable Seating
Sitting in the same position for long periods of time can lead to muscle fatigue and poor posture. An adjustable chair or stool will give you the flexibility to move around, ensuring that your body is supported in all directions.
Footrests
Keeping your feet flat on the floor helps you maintain good posture, but it isn’t always possible to do this. Footrests provide an easy solution by allowing you to adjust the height of your feet and keep them at a comfortable level.
Sit-Stand Desks
Sit-stand desks are becoming increasingly popular as they provide a great way to stay active while you work. These desks are adjustable so you can switch from sitting to standing whenever you need to.
Lumbar Support
Back pain is one of the most common workplace injuries. Investing in lumbar support cushions or chairs can help reduce strain on your lower back, improving both your posture and comfort.
Anti-Fatigue Mats
When standing for long periods of time, having a cushioned anti-fatigue mat will not only improve your posture, but also increase blood circulation.
How to Set Up an Ergonomic Workspace
In the ideal workplace design, employees should be able to adjust their workstations to meet their specific needs. For example, adjustable desks allow users to alternate between sitting and standing positions throughout the day. Anti-fatigue mats are great for those who need to stand for long periods of time, like hotel clerks, food service workers, cashiers, and more, as they provide extra cushioning to reduce strain on joints. Height-adjustable chairs and stools also enable users to move their seat up and down depending on either their height or preference. And for those who must use a mouse or keyboard for long hours, wrist rests for a mouse or keyboard are invaluable for reducing strain and improving circulation.
Additional Tips for an Ergonomic Workplace
Good posture is essential for all workplace employees. Maintaining good posture reduces strain on the body, prevents long-term musculoskeletal injuries, and improves mental focus. To maintain good posture at work, be sure to sit with your back straight and feet flat on the floor or on a footrest. If you’re standing, keep your feet shoulder-width apart with your shoulders relaxed and your spine aligned.
There are several products available that can help you maintain good posture in the workplace. Desk risers are great tools for adjusting your desk to the right height, so you don’t have to stoop or lean forward to type. Additional products you can use for ergonomic support include ergonomic keyboards, adjustable monitor arms, and wrist rests. Ergonomic keyboards encourage good posture by keeping your wrists in a neutral position. Adjustable monitor arms can help place your screen at the correct distance from your eyes and relieve any strain. Wrist rests can also be used to support your wrists while typing or using a mouse.
Get in With Gateway
These are just a few ways you can make sure you’re creating an ergonomic workplace design and staying comfortable throughout the workday. Remember, any changes you make to your workspace should feel natural and comfortable so you can stay productive and free of pain and fatigue. Gateway Furniture in South Texas offers a great selection of ergonomic furniture to help you create a workplace design that feels comfortable and supportive. With their wide range of office chairs, desks, and more, you’ll be sure to find something that fits your needs. They also offer custom design solutions so you can create a workspace that works best for you. With Gateway, you’ll get the support and comfort you need while working in your office.