Not everyone understands what ergonomics really is or why it is so important.  Therefore, they may need a list of commonly asked questions and answers so that they are better able to understand exactly what ergonomics is.

What is ergonomics?”  Ergonomics is the scientific study of the work environment the workspace affects the worker’s body movements.  The study provides helpful information that allows a company to provide a comfortable workspace in order to reduce the occurrence of work related injuries, particularly musculoskeletal disorders.

What are musculoskeletal disorders? Musculoskeletal disorders are a set of disorders that result in three types of injuries including:

• Muscle injuries
• Nerve injuries
• Tendon injuries

When these disorders occur, they often present themselves through injuries to the back, neck, eyes, or even the wrist such as carpal tunnel for example.

How do you know if musculoskeletal disorders are really work related?

The person suffering from the disorder must undergo careful examination.  The person’s medical history is extensively reviewed in order to determine if symptoms prevented themselves before or after the person started working at the company.  A thorough medical examination is also necessary in order to confirm the presence of a musculoskeletal disorder.  The person’s workspace will be examined in order to determine whether it is ergonomically friendly.

How do you increase ergonomics in the workplace?

Ergonomics in the workplace can be increased in a number of ways.  For example, the company may choose to provide ergonomic furniture to increase the natural posture of the body for better alignment of the joints.  Employees may also be furnished with wide display monitors so that they are not straining their eyes or leaning forward to read the text on their screen.  Furnishing adjustable monitors is another way to improve workspace ergonomics as this prevents the employee from having to bend their neck to view the screen, thus preventing any neck injuries.

Why is ergonomics so important to a company and its employees?

Ergonomics is important for the health and safety of the employees.  OSHA provides guidelines so that employee health and safety is always a first and foremost concern of any employer.  Following the proper methods of ergonomics decreases the chances of the employee retaining any injuries.  Ergonomics is also important to a company because it decreases the risk of an employee getting injured and filing worker’s compensation claims.  Such claims have a significant financial impact on many companies and injuries can also reduce worker productivity rates.

More information about our Bodybilt Custom Ergonomic Chairs for your or your company can be found online here