A small investment in ergonomic support products for employees can often pay huge dividends down the line for businesses.
Workers who are free of pain are more productive, less likely to quit, and happier in their jobs, creating a more efficient business environment. Fewer work-related injuries also can reduce the number of costly workmen’s compensation claims.
Happy and Healthy Workers
Most ergonomic support equipment is relatively inexpensive, especially when compared with the potential costs of exposing workers to long-term injuries as a result of their job duties.
Companies have the option of purchasing the equipment themselves or allowing employees to buy it on their own. Some business will reimburse workers for some or all of the cost of ergonomic support equipment.
It’s often a good investment for businesses because it can help streamline operations, prevent the number and severity of workplace injuries, and help create a happier and healthier work environment.
Types of Ergonomic Support Equipment
There are many different types of ergonomic support equipment, each of which is created for the prevention of a particular type of workplace injury caused by repetitive motion, lifting heavy loads, standing in the same spot for long periods of time, and other potential workplace hazards.
Standing mats provide a cushion between employee’s feet and hard surfaces, like concrete or cement. They help reduce the amount of stress that is put on the calves, thighs, and lower back and can help workers feel comfortable even when standing for hours at a time. Standing mats usually are made of plastic, rubber, or other softer surfaces.
Back and abdomen braces are removable devices that can be worn by workers whose job includes lifting heavy objects, such as cases of products or equipment. They squeeze the lower back and abdominal muscles, preventing them from shifting when they are stressed by the force of lifting.
Office Ergonomic Support Equipment
Even workers who never leave the office are not immune from the threat or workplace injuries. People who type a lot are susceptible to carpal tunnel syndrome, which can cause soreness and permanent injury to the wrist and forearm muscles.
Wearing wrist supports and providing keyboard mats can help prevent the development of carpal tunnel and keep people working in front of computers more comfortable and more productive.
Anti-glare screens are another inexpensive solution that can help make office workers more productive. They can be affixed to practically any computer or laptop screen and reduce glare by as much as 70 percent.