Recent statistics suggest that Americans now spend almost half of their waking hours viewing the screen which translates into almost seven hours of screen time every day. The increased amount of screen time and a rise in digital device ownership and use have made employees prone to health conditions due to excessive use of technology. While some develop carpal tunnel syndrome, others experience poor concentration, spinal disorder and other musculoskeletal conditions.
Fortunately, the use of ergonomic accessories at work can significantly reduce the risk of developing many of these conditions. Some ergonomic accessories, including an ergonomic mouse, ergonomic office chair and height-adjustable standing desk, can even help boost your productivity and work performance.
Let's take a closer look at the role of ergonomics and the benefits of using ergonomic accessories in the workplace. We also look at incorporating ergonomics into your everyday work life.
The Role of Ergonomics
Sitting in a seat that is too straight or too small can lead to an awkward position, and when you stay in such a position for longer, the result is a bad posture. Persistent poor posture can lead to discomfort, fatigue, body ache, and other health concerns. These are often the symptoms of a musculoskeletal disorder that the user of an inappropriate chair is likely to experience. When a person doesn’t feel well, it affects their productivity which affects the overall efficiency of the employee and the business.
And that’s where ergonomics comes into play. The role of ergonomics is to offer effective solutions that can help make the working experience pleasant for the employee. Incorporating ergonomics into everyday work life is about considering the person's sit or stand position to ensure that there is less strain and pressure.
Ergonomics is critical in not only creating an optimal work environment, but also improving the health and overall well-being of the employees.
The Benefits of Using Ergonomic Accessories in the Workplace
Ergonomic accessories are designed to make the working experience more comfortable for users and reduce health problems. Ergonomic accessories like ergonomic mice allow employees to work comfortably and more productively while preventing injuries. There are several benefits that a typical employee with a desk job can gain from using ergonomic accessories.
Reduced Risk of Incidents At Work
Perhaps the most significant benefit of using ergonomic accessories in the workplace is to reduce the incidents of work-related injuries. Employees who spend a lot of time sitting for a desk job are prone to back and neck problems and injuries. However, you can conveniently reduce the risk of such injuries by using ergonomic office chairs and adjustable monitor risers. Similarly, if you are experiencing problems like carpal tunnel syndrome, you can manage the condition with the use of an ergonomic mouse.
These ergonomic accessories effectively reduce the risk of health conditions at work.
Saves A lot of Time
Another significant benefit of using ergonomic accessories at the workplace is that it helps save a lot of time. When workers are working in a convenient work setting, they are more productive. Moreover, when working in a convenient work setting with a reduced risk of injuries, there is less work time lost due to absenteeism. Furthermore, it also helps reduce medical costs for the employees and the organization.
Therefore, using ergonomic office chairs and other accessories like ergonomic mice improves work time efficiency. Moreover, since ergonomic accessories are more comfortable and alleviate discomfort, employees can continue to spend longer time at work without needing a break and getting tired.
Enhanced Productivity
The third benefit of investing in ergonomic accessories is that there is enhanced productivity. When employees are more comfortable, there will be a reduced need for frequent breaks. Moreover, with a comfortable working environment, employees will be able to generate more output compared to workers who are not working in an ergonomic workspace. One of the classic examples of how ergonomic office products enhance productivity is the use of a height-adjustable standing desk. When workers are allowed to switch their positions from sitting to standing and vice versa, it enhances their productivity because if an employee is tired of working while sitting, they can continue to work by switching their position to standing and vice versa.
Improved Efficiency
Enhanced productivity translates into improved efficiency in the processes. Ergonomic accessories like height adjustable standing desks and ergonomic mice are designed to increase efficiency. Moreover, ergonomic furniture can also be used along with other accessories such as an ergonomic footrest and backrest that further improve work efficiency as there is no discomfort.
In all, the amount of time it requires to complete a task is reduced when using an ergonomic desk.
Ergonomic Accessories are Customizable
Last on the list of benefits of using ergonomic accessories in the workplace is that they can be customized, which means that ergonomic accessories can be made to suit the workers and address their individual office needs. Think, for example, of ergonomic office chairs that can be used to accommodate a wide range of employees. They are designed to meet the needs of individuals with varying body weights and heights. Moreover, they can also be designed to meet the needs of employees who have certain health conditions such as musculoskeletal problems.
In all, there are several benefits of using ergonomic accessories in the workplace. Now let's look at how you can incorporate ergonomic accessories into your everyday work life.
Incorporating Ergonomics in Your Everyday Life
Ergonomics is critical for maintaining one’s balance. With the use of ergonomic accessories, employees can keep their spine, bones and all joints in appropriate alignment. Moreover, it also prevents employees from getting muscle strains and related injuries. Furthermore, with the appropriate use of ergonomic accessories, you may correct your posture at work and wherever you are. Here are some of the tips to incorporate ergonomics accessories in your workplace and everyday life.
Invest in an Ergonomic Office Chair
Invest in an ergonomic office chair so your spine can get the support it needs. Since most jobs involve sitting for prolonged hours, it can lead to pain and discomfort. By investing in an ergonomic office chair, you can make your sitting experience more comfortable, resulting in better productivity at work and improved health and well-being.
Along with an ergonomic office chair, you may also need back support for occasions when you are not sitting at your ergonomic office chair. For example, your back support can be a great companion as you drive to and from work. Moreover, sitting at a 100–110o tilt in a back position can also help reduce the stress on your back.
Use an Ergonomic Mouse
One of the ergonomic accessories that are becoming increasingly popular is an ergonomic mouse. Since most desk jobs require the mouse to complete tasks, constant use of a regular mouse can lead to pain and discomfort in your fingers and wrist joints. A better alternative is an ergonomic mouse that can significantly reduce your risk of having wrist injuries due to repetitive movement. An ergonomic mouse maintains your hand’s position without letting your hand get tired and also aids in relieving the muscles and tendons.
Work on a Standing Desk
You may have an ergonomic office chair and an ergonomic mouse, but what if your workstation requires you to constantly sit in the same position? Prolonged sitting is the leading cause of pain and discomfort in the spine and also leads to several other health problems. An ergonomic solution is a height-adjustable standing desk that allows you to switch between standing and sitting to be more productive and stay healthy even when your job requires you to spend long hours at the desk.
One of the most reliable standing desks that you can find on the market is the Willow Solid Wood Standing Desk, a height-adjustable standing desk that allows you to transition from sitting to standing and vice versa with ease and convenience. Learn more about Willow Solid Wood Standing Desk here.
Final Words
Working at a desk can be physically demanding, which is why there is a need for ergonomic accessories at your workplace. Ergonomic accessories allow you to maintain your posture so you can improve your stance while working. While switching to ergonomic accessories may seem like a costly solution, the benefits you get in the long run make it investment-worthy. To learn more about ergonomic office furniture and ergonomic accessories for your office or home office, get in touch with us.
