October is a really special month not only because of the lovely fall foliage and pumpkin-spiced lattes. It is dedicated to the promotion of ergonomics.
In 2003, the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society designated October as National Ergonomics Month (NEM) to promote the benefits of ergonomics to professionals, students, and the general public.
What is ergonomics exactly? Ergonomics, or human factors, is concerned with the ‘fit’ between people and their work. According to OSHA, it’s “the science of designing the job to fit the worker, rather than physically forcing the worker’s body to fit the job.” It aims to ensure that equipment, information, tasks, and the overall environment fit the person so that work can be done comfortably and efficiently.
The average American works up to 40 hours per week–that’s almost two whole days nonstop if you think about it. Workplaces are also evolving as we see in the hybrid and work-from-home setups now. NEM’s goal is to spread awareness and the knowledge needed to make sure any kind of workspace is helping you, not hurting you. For these reasons, observing the National Ergonomics Month is crucial.
Preventing MSDs
Does your back or neck hurt when you sit too long on your work chair? Are you constantly shifting because you can’t get comfortable? Do you strain your eyes when you’re looking at your computer screen? Do your wrists feel sore after a day of typing and using a mouse? These are signs that your office or at-home workspace needs an ergonomic upgrade.
These are also signs of musculoskeletal disorders or MSDs. Common MSDs include back or neck pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and arthritis. Ergonomics aims to reduce and prevent work-related MSDs so you can have a safe, comfortable, and productive workspace.
Posture-Perfect
You can start applying ergonomics with yourself! Checking your position and maintaining good posture is one of the first things you can do to improve working conditions. Ideally, you should be sitting comfortably with a straight and supported back, with your hands, wrists, and forearms flat on the table, and your feet fully supported by the floor or a footrest. Your neck shouldn’t be bending down and your shoulders shouldn’t be slouching.
Adjust, Adjust, Adjust
Applying ergonomics to your workspace means adjusting elements to fit you. After evaluating how you position yourself, make all the necessary adjustments to complement how you work.
Place your monitor at arm’s length and make it level with your eyesight. Get a table with ample leg room so your thighs, knees, legs, and feet are relaxed. Sit in a good ergonomic chair that supports your whole back, from sitting straight to reclining slightly for resting. Even adjusting your mouse and keyboard in the slightest way can help.
From Personal Elements to Shared Spaces
Ergonomic furniture doesn’t only mean a comfy chair or expensive table. A lot of furniture claims to be ergonomic but true ergonomic furniture is all about nonrestrictive elements that enhance the natural movement of the human body. It’s furniture that adapts to your body to ensure good posture and maximum comfort.
Invest in excellent ergonomic furniture that can be easily adjusted to accommodate a diverse range of people. Some examples are pivotal screen monitors and chairs with weight-activated mechanisms in chairs. This kind of furniture should also encourage physical movement where possible. An example is a sit-stand desk that cuts the monotony and repetitive stress of having to sit all the time.
Even the space and architecture of an office itself can have human-centered design. Ample natural light and greenery relax the eyes and take off the strain of staring at a computer all day. Collaboration rooms and flexible office layouts foster a sense of community. All of these are part of the science of ergonomics.
This month, think about how you can integrate ergonomics in your workplace—your body will thank you for it.
At TRBI, we offer the best of the best ergonomic solutions for your much needed workspace elevation. Let’s talk! Contact us at info@trbusinessinteriors.com or call us at 260-739-7155.
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