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How An Ergonomic Assessment Can Save You Money

What is an ergonomic assessment?

A thorough ergonomics workstation assessment will help a company save money by evaluating:

• How will the computer be used?  
• What kind of computer will be used?  
• Where will the computer be used?
• What furniture and chair will you use?
• What kind of work will the computer be used for?
• A good workstation ergonomic arrangement
• Posture, posture, posture!

For example, a small change such as the proper use of a chair can help prevent back injuries. If a chair is going to be used by several people, you will need to create an arrangement that most closely satisfies the needs of the extremes, that is the smallest and tallest, thinnest and broadest persons, as well as those in between these extremes. The reality is that most employees do move on eventually. Buying an ergonomic chair that accommodates different people is cheaper than buying several chairs for different employees.

Another example where a small change can help save money involves the type of computer used. Ergonomic guidelines for computer workstation arrangements suggest that a desktop system with a separate keyboard is used.  Guidelines for laptop use are more difficult because laptop design inherently is problematic. Sometimes the screen is at a comfortable height and distance the keyboard isn't or vice versa. Laptop use should only be for a user who will use it sparingly.  Knowing this in advance can help a business make good decisions about buying a computer. In the end that can save time and money by avoiding the purchase equipment that will not be appropriate.

A good ergonomics test involves the posture of a worker. The posture will be evaluated. and suggestions for improvement will then be made. For example, a user should reach the keyboard keys with their wrists as flat as possible and straight. The worker’s wrist should not bend up or down or not bend left or right. Being a pro-active employer is key to a successful ergonomics program. Keeping an eye out for an employee’s working habits can help an employer correct them and avoid the potential of a work related injury. In turn, this will help keep Worker’s Compensation insurance rates as affordable as possible.

What’s involved in a workstation?

An ergonomic workstation usually has a few of the following:

• Ergonomic keyboards
• Ergonomic mice
• Wrist rests
• Support braces/gloves
• Forearm supports/resting forearms on chair arms
• Sit-stand Workstations
• Height adjustable, split work surfaces

An ergonomic evaluation will help determine what is best for the user or users. While an ergonomic assessment and ergonomic products may seem like extra expenses for a business, it can save big money in the long run. Preventative measures are much more economical than correcting a work related injury. Equally important is keeping good employees safe and healthy so that a business will prosper and run more smoothly.