While most people today tend to work in an office environment rather than a physically demanding job, workplace injuries still occur. In today’s modern office workplace, injuries are typically due to uncomfortable office furniture and equipment.
Instead of forcing office workers to adjust to their surroundings, the purpose of ergonomics is to make the workplace fit workers’ needs, while increasing productivity and making workers more comfortable at the same time. Taking ergonomic measures may cost you upfront, but they help keep your staff safe and prevent workers’ compensation claims.
Ergonomics can help reduce lost time from workplace injuries, medical expenses, and workers’ compensation costs. Read on for some important benefits of ergonomics in the workplace.
Employee retention
From adjustable-height desks to adjustable desk chairs, monitors, lights, and keyboards, there are countless options for a more ergonomic workplace that allows employees to work the way they prefer. Because an ergonomic workplace would be highly regarded for its emphasis on employee health and wellbeing, this could boost your recruiting and retention efforts.
Culture of safety
Creating a culture of safety in the workplace is a must for every business, but it’s all in the execution. More than accident prevention, a culture of safety requires carefully considering how employees work and incorporating that into your policies and procedures.
It also requires properly training all employees on your policies and procedures to make sure everyone is on the same page. Continually monitor your risk and update policies as needed.
Money saved
Every business wants to mind its bottom line. While investing in ergonomics for employees may seem like an added cost, it can benefit your business in the long run.
Ergonomic interventions have been shown to save employers money by reducing claims and workers’ compensation costs. Anything from updating a furniture layout, adding new workstations, and switching out task lighting could also reduce absenteeism, improve turnover, increase productivity, save on maintenance costs.
While it’s an initial investment, ergonomic measures can help a company’s bottom line. Take the time to plan what furnishings and accommodations your employees could use so they can be safe and more engaged while on the job.
At Swarts, Manning & Associates, we provide a unique perspective on all of your commercial coverage options, and we help to determine which carrier best fits your business needs. We strive to find you the broadest coverage at the best available rate. Give us a call to get started: (833) 878-2820.
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