Improve workplace health and safety with an ergonomics plan

Post date: Feb 15, 2019 7:45:52 PM

When the words occupational health and safety come to mind, one usually thinks of warehouse spaces, construction sites, and factories. While safety should be a priority in these places, a regular office should also ensure the well-being of employees. Occupational health and safety professionals like Martin Lloyd Sanders, Ph.D. advocate for better ergonomics in corporate spaces. Here are some of the areas that should be considered when coming up with an ergonomics plan:

Flooring: Slippery, uneven, and cluttered floors can cause people to trip, slip, or fall. While these injuries seem simple, sprains and strains can greatly affect a person’s mobility. To ensure safety, tiles and carpets should be skid-free. Boxes, equipment, cords, and other objects on the floor should be organized to avoid hazards and to clear the path.

Individual workstation: Sitting, writing, typing, and looking at the monitor for hours can trigger musculoskeletal pain. The daily motions at work can become hazardous especially for those who are using the wrong equipment. Workplace safety experts like Martin Lloyd Sanders, Ph.D. suggest making the workstation comfortable and suitable for everyone. Investing in adjustable chairs, desk, monitors, and other furniture can prevent injuries and will help employees move efficiently in their designated space.

Lighting and ventilation: These days, more companies are championing the sustainability initiative. Having the right lighting and ventilation is a good place to start. Lessening hours of using “artificial” lighting and ventilation will not just save energy costs but will also benefit the well-being of those working in the office. Aside from this, having the right brightness and temperature will make the space more conducive to productivity.

When drafting an ergonomics plan, leaders should always make it a goal to ensure a healthier and more effective work environment for everyone in the company.

Martin Lloyd Sanders, Ph.D. has over 12 years of service in the occupational health and safety sector. He is also a multi-awarded scientist and US Army veteran. For more on health and safety, visit this blog.