Preventing Costly Workplace Injuries with Office Ergonomics

August 8th, 2024

It can be easy to overlook the impact office setups have on our bodies. However, ignoring ergonomics can lead to a host of workplace injuries, ranging from neck and back pain to repetitive strain injuries. In this post, we’ll explore how simple adjustments and the right office furniture can create a healthier, more productive workspace and protect your organization’s bottom line.

The Financial Impact of Workplace Injuries

According to data shared with Alberta Office Furniture by Ergonomics by Erin, workplace overexertion injuries cost employers $12.84 billion per year in medical expenses and lost wages. That said, the right office furniture, placement, and routines can ensure your business doesn’t have to face these hefty costs. In fact, investing in a strong ergonomics program goes beyond simply preventing injury-related expenses and can improve your operational efficiency, enhance your financial performance, and give you a bigger competitive edge.

Steps to Creating an Ergonomically Safe Workplace

If you’re planning to implement an ergonomics program for your office, following these steps is the best way to ensure a high return on your investment.

Consult with an expert: Schedule time with a licensed ergonomics expert to provide you guidance.
Create a safety committee: Designate a small group of employees to form a safety committee. Have them meet regularly to discuss opportunities for improvement.
Assess your current setup: Go through your office carefully and determine areas for improvement, collect employee feedback, and analyze any injury reports that have been filed.
Redesign workstations: Utilizing feedback from your ergonomics consultation and results from your assessment, redesign your workstations to ensure employees can work safely and comfortably. Ensure you create and post guidelines for all equipment and furniture that employees can follow.
Provide training: Conduct a workshop or provide one-on-one training to team members on ergonomics and safety in the workplace.
Monitor and adjust: Continually monitor your office for workplace hazards and encourage employees to voice concerns regarding ergonomics or safety. Make adjustments to your ergonomics program as needed.

Schedule an Office Furniture and Ergonomics Consultation

At Alberta Office Furniture, we take ergonomics and workplace safety seriously. Our team is pleased to provide your organization with a comprehensive ergonomics assessment free of charge, helping you ensure the safety and comfort of your team while enhancing productivity and meeting financial goals. Our experts help you assess your space, identify vulnerabilities, and select ergonomic office furniture solutions that promote a healthier, safer work environment.