Have you ever experienced muscle pain or discomfort during your work day? A slight adjustment to your workspace could be the solution.

Better office ergonomics can help workers avoid or reduce injury and discomfort. Ergonomics involves designing the working environment – including tasks, equipment and tools – in such a way so that work can be performed productively, comfortably and safely.

Managers and supervisors can help their team members improve their workspace ergonomics by:

• Encouraging regular self-assessment,
• Assisting or enabling staff to make needed adjustments, and
• Inviting workers to talk to them or their GP should discomfort or pain continue.

Self-assessment can be done at any time but especially when a staff member commences at a new workplace, moves to a new workstation or whenever discomfort or pain is experienced during their normal work day. A ‘Workstation Ergonomic Self-Assessment Form’ which can be adjusted to suit your workplace is available for download here.

Ken Marsh, Senior Advisor – Safety Management, recommends workers vary their routine to avoid injury and pain, “Standing is a good break from sitting, stretching regularly, adjusting your work height or blinds and lighting can all help.” He goes on to add, “Even a telephone book used to raise the height of a computer screen can be effective.”

The benefits of good workspace ergonomics include:

• Reduction in work-related injuries
• Increased productivity
• Increased quality of work
• Reduced absence from work
• Increased morale

The three resources below may be useful to you and your staff to help improve ergonomics at your work place.