Ergonomics for the entire workplace

Many of us spend around eight hours a day at our desks, often leaning forward with tense shoulders and a stiff back. This can easily lead to neck, back and wrist pain. A good office chair or stool combined with a height- adjustable desk forms the foundation of an ergonomic desk setup. Position your screen at eye level, adjust your chair so both your back and legs are properly supported and make sure your forearms can rest comfortably on the desk. Switch between sitting and standing regularly. Consider adding ergonomic accessories such as a footrest, monitor arm or anti-fatigue standing mat to further reduce strain.

International studies show that ergonomic improvements can provide an ROI of between 3 and 15 times the investment (Puleio & Zhao, Return on Investment for Ergonomics Interventions, Humanscale, 2015).

Packing work often involves repetitive movements that put strain on the shoulders, arms and back. Height-adjustable packing benches, allow each employee to work at the right height and switch between sitting and standing. Work tables with integrated rollers or roller conveyors make it easier and faster to move goods without heavy lifting. Keep materials close at hand using smart storage solutions, and complement the setup with an ergonomic chair or standing support. Lifting tables and scissor lift trolleys relieve strain on the back and contribute to a more efficient and sustainable workflow over time.

In many workplaces, heavy lifting is a regular part of the job. It's important to lift correctly to prevent strain and injury. Where possible, avoid lifting altogether and try to push, pull or roll the load instead. When you need to lift, keep the following in mind:

• Plan the lift in advance and make sure the path is clear of obstacles.
• Keep the load close to your body and bend your knees rather than your back. Avoid twisting - turn with your whole body instead.
• Use aids such as trolleys, pallet trucks or lifting tables for heavier loads.

A typical day at work can involve a lot of lifting, big and small. With ergonomic transport trolleys, you can avoid heavy lifting and have a smoother working day. Choose a trolley suited to the load and environment, for example shelf trolleys and workshop trolleys in the office, catering trolleys in the canteen, or platform trolleys and long material trolleys in the warehouse. The right trolley eases the strain on your body and makes work safer, easier and more ergonomic.

Distracting noise in the workplace affects both concentration and well-being. A good sound environment is an important part of workplace ergonomics. Floor screen dividers, wall panels and acoustic ceiling panels can reduce the noise levels and create quieter workspaces. Sound-absorbing textiles, carpets and furniture also help to dampen sound while making the environment more comfortable. The result is less stress and more job satisfaction.

Research shows that the right sound environment in the office reduces stress and improves focus, leading to higher productivity (Haworth, The Effect of Sound on Workplace Productivity, 2024).

Several work environment studies show that the right light levels and color temperatures reduce stress and fatigue, leading to fewer sick days (CIE, 2019; Boyce et al., 2003).

Many offices are dominated by hard surfaces and neutral colors, which can easily make the environment feel monotonous and stressful. Introducing biophilic elements by allowing plants, daylight and natural materials to take their place, you create a calmer and more inspiring work environment. Plants reduce stress levels, increase well-being and can even increase productivity. Artificial plats also work well because they require minimal maintenance but give the same green feeling. Biophilic design is more than just aesthetic; a green, thoughtfully designed workplace can also help attract and retain employees, giving your business a competitive edge.