People weren’t made to sit around all day. But with the rise of desk jobs, digital marketplaces and working from the comfort of our own homes - we’re more sedentary than ever! As a result more businesses are looking to invest in safe, comfortable ergonomic solutions and set ups. 

Here are the most frequently asked questions we receive…

What is the meaning of ergonomics?

Ergonomics is the application of psychological and physiological principles to the engineering and design of products, processes, and systems. It sits in the realm of scientific discipline and is a profession that applies theory to the design in order to optimise human comfort.

Simply put, when items like desks and chairs are designed for the workplace - they are done so with the user's best interests in mind. 

Why ergonomics is important in the workplace

It’s common knowledge that ergonomics is an important feature in the health and safety of your workplace. Ensuring your employees have the correct equipment to look after their functional needs is essential. But this is just scratching the surface of the benefits a great ergonomics programme can bring to your company. 

The best ergonomics bring about improvements to motivation and employee happiness. By looking at all of the interactions among humans that happen, it uses method to design a space that suits your work force. It also reduces the risk of employee injury - and other unseen concerns like stress, that also have debilitating consequences if left unchecked. 

Can ergonomics prevent injury?

When used as a preventative strategy, ergonomics is incredibly effective. However with human nature, preventative methods are rarely the easy choice. We prefer to do what feels good now. As a result we only look to fix problems as they arise and when we experience discomfort. 

Ergonomics looks at human abilities and limitations of movement and then considers the overall system performance of your workplace.

Most workplace musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) can be prevented with a well thought through and effectively executed ergonomics programme. By decreasing continual strain, poor posture, vibrations and repetition in movement - you reduce the risk of injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome. Your workforce will remain healthier for longer.

This comes into play with both the equipment and education on offer. Cognitive ergonomics is important as it brings together a system and the profession your team works in. Sharing a relatable context when talking about the elements of a system will ensure successful adoption throughout your team.

How ergonomics improves productivity 

Taking a proactive approach not only helps in how you feel at work, but also in how you perform. While we can talk about ergonomically set up spaces, it still doesn’t mitigate the fact that our bodies were designed to move. Just because your desk and chair are set up correctly - it’s not an excuse to remain seated for hours at a time with no movement. There is a balance between lifestyle factors and having the correct equipment.

While we can sort your work station set up, you’re in control of your working habits… Having regular breaks, getting up to move and taking time to look away from your screen is all sound advice and can help to improve overall feelings of wellness. In turn this boosts productivity, focus and creativity. It also prevents feelings of burnout and enables you to work smarter, not harder. 

Ergonomics and working from home

While companies have been carefully designing and curating the office space for years, the pandemic saw us shift instantaneously to working from home. However our homes were never designed to offer the support our bodies need during our 8 (often longer) hours sat at a desk. 

Many now find themselves sat at dining room tables or if we’re lucky enough with make-shift offices in the spare room. With no resources, support or education around creating a suitable workspace, our bodies are now feeling the effects. 

If you’re working from home or have instructed your employees to work from home - even in a hybrid situation - you should be offering the correct equipment and education to protect your workforce.

How Fenns can help

We offer a range of ergonomic products, from chairs to accessories, that can be delivered quickly to your door. Our team of DSE accredited experts will even assist you in the set up of your space - providing a consultation and audit to ensure your team has everything it needs to thrive. 

Contact us at customerservice@fenns.co.uk for more information