5 simple Ergonomic practices to implement in the workplace

Looking to improve health and safety in your workplace by applying ergonomic practices?

Implementing ergonomics is one of the simplest ways to reduce workplace injuries, improve well-being, and boost productivity. 

In this guide, we’ll explore 5 simple ergonomic practices you can introduce to your workplace to create a healthier and safer environment.

Table of Contents

• What are Ergonomic practices?

• 5 Ergonomic practices every workplace should follow

• Why Ergonomic practices matter

• Get expert Ergonomic advice

What are Ergonomic practices?

Ergonomic practices involve tailoring a workspace to fit the worker, instead of the other way round. These everyday adjustments not only drastically reduce the risk of workplace injuries but also enhance performance across your team, creating a safer, productive, and comfortable environment. 

Ergonomic practices include encouraging movement, upgrading furniture, and changing lighting. These small changes reduce harmful repetitive movements, fatigue, and discomfort. 

If you would like to find out how to make your workplace more ergonomic, reach out, and one of our experts can assess your current setup, identify risks, and offer solutions.

5 Ergonomic Practices every Workplace should follow

At Insight Workplace Health, we believe every worker is entitled to a safe, comfortable working environment. That’s why we’ve come up with 5 simple ergonomic practices every business should follow to increase employee wellbeing on both a physical and mental level.

Adjust workstations

Whether your business's workstation is a desk, a cash register, or a kitchen, there are always simple ways you can make these spaces more ergonomic. 

For example, in an office setting, employees should be provided with adjustable chairs and monitors or laptop stands. Or, in industrial environments, workbenches should be height-adjustable to avoid hunching. 

You should also always ensure that your employees who work from home are doing so ergonomically, as it's easy for people to default to sitting on sofas all day or working from makeshift setups. Get in touch if you would like to learn more about how you can make your workspace more ergonomic.

Encourage regular movement

One of the simplest, most crucial, and cost-effective aspects of ergonomic practices is movement. In a study from the West University of Timișoara, it was discovered that those who took regular micro breaks every 30-60 minutes saw a significant reduction in musculoskeletal issues. 

Regular movement reduces the risk of serious medical issues such as blood clots, eye strain, fatigue, and mental health conditions. We also offer active seating solutions to reduce risks associated with static sitting.

Provide Ergonomic equipment and tools

Supplying your team with ergonomic equipment is a great step in creating a healthier, more comfortable workplace. These tools don’t have to be expensive and can drastically improve employee well-being. 

For example, investing in equipment such as wrist/mouse support, foot support, and standing desks can boost comfort as well as increase work output. Take a look at our full range of ergonomic equipment and start your journey to making your place of work safer.

Improve harsh lighting and screen time

Eye strain is one of the most common workplace health and safety concerns. It’s often regarded as being unavoidable due to the nature of office work; however, that isn’t the case. 

By adjusting the office environment through softer lighting and balancing harsh computer screens, you can reduce headaches and increase concentration. You can also use blue light glasses to protect your eyes.

We recommend teaching employees the 20-20-20 rule, a great exercise to improve ergonomic practices in the workplace. This involves: every 20 minutes, focus on something 20 feet away for 20 seconds, ultimately helping to relax eye muscles and reduce fatigue. Learn more about working safely with display equipment and reducing injuries.

Train staff on ergonomic practices

The first step to applying ergonomic practices in the workplace is teaching your staff what ergonomics is and how easy it is to employ. 

Ergonomic training also provides employees with the knowledge to spot areas where they might be at risk of ergonomic-related injuries and helps them take action before these issues develop into chronic conditions.

A study on the effects of office ergonomics training found that training can reduce staff turnover by 87%, demonstrating just how important education is when it comes to ergonomic practices.

Why Ergonomic practices matter

There are many reasons why ergonomic practices matter, from a business and a human perspective. Let’s explore some key reasons why ergonomics is such a crucial part of workplace health and safety:

Reduces absences and health costs

As we’ve learned, implementing ergonomic practices can drastically improve the health and well-being of your employees. But what does this mean for business? Simply put, effective ergonomic practices lead to fewer sick days, meaning company costs are reduced. According to the UK’s Health and Safety Executive, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) were the cause of around a third of all work-related ill health in 2023/24.

Boosts productivity

It’s scientifically proven that comfort affects concentration. In a study from the University of Leicester, it was found that ergonomic practices could increase productivity and work output by up to 40%. This is because employees who are physically supported at work by ergonomics are less likely to be distracted by discomfort, pain, or fatigue.

Supports a caring work culture

Implementing ergonomic practices demonstrates to your employees that you value their health and well-being. It's a great way to boost company morale and promote a more positive atmosphere, and in the long run, it leads to higher staff retention and reduced hiring costs!

Get expert Ergonomic advice

If you’re looking to take the next step in making your workplace safer, more comfortable, and more productive, Insight Workplace Health is here to help. Our clinically backed occupational health services offer tailored ergonomic assessments, as well as practical advice and long-term strategies.

Reach out to our expert team and discover how ergonomic practices can transform your workplace.