Ergonomics is about ensuring the work layout suits the individual (rather than the other way round). This may sound obvious but it’s often forgotten when furniture is specified.
Good ergonomics is good business. It can motivate staff, reduce injuries, reduce absenteeism and increase staff retention and increase productivity.
The commercial argument for good ergonomics fits with our CSR and sustainability themes. Indeed, providing good workstation design is a key element of the “looking after your people” element of CSR.
Ergonomics is a holistic science and considering ergonomics is an excellent way of ensuring joined-up-thinking in the furniture procurement process. For example, office workstation purchases are usually based on the assumption that each individual will be a computer user. However, the type of computer is not always considered and, with more and more people are using laptops, this can be a major issue. As well as thinking about the desk, chair and storage, consider also how the laptop will be used.
Purchasing a laptop stand with a separate mini keyboard and mouse (all of which can be carried around and used outside the office as well), will
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improve ergonomics;
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reduce musculo-skeletal problems;
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eliminate the need to buy a separate monitor;
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eliminate the need to buy a docking station and, probably, reduce absenteeism and increase productivity.
As well as the capital cost savings, a laptop on mains power uses about the same amount of electricity as an LCD monitor, so not needing to buy the screen will also halve electricity consumption.
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