Ergonomics at Work: Importance, Benefits, and Best Practices

Workplace ergonomics is a fundamental aspect of ensuring workers’ health, well-being, and productivity. This text explores what ergonomics is, its impact in the workplace, and key strategies for implementing effective ergonomic practices.

What Is Ergonomics?

Ergonomics is the discipline that studies the interaction between workers and their work environment, designing tools, spaces, and processes that adapt to human needs. Its main goal is to prevent injuries, enhance comfort, and increase efficiency.

Impact of Ergonomics in the Workplace

• Physical Health: Implementing ergonomic practices reduces the risk of musculoskeletal disorders, such as back pain, wrist injuries, and neck strain.+
• Productivity: Employees working in comfortable conditions tend to be more efficient and make fewer mistakes.
• Psychological Well-being: An adequately designed workplace contributes to greater satisfaction and reduced stress levels.
• Cost Reduction: Preventing injuries through ergonomics decreases sick leave and medical expenses.

Main ergonomic problems

Poor posture: Holding awkward positions for long periods can cause muscle strain and joint problems.
Poorly designed spaces: Work areas that do not consider the worker’s reach, height or specific needs can lead to fatigue and frustration.
Inadequate tools: Poorly designed equipment and tools increase the risk of repetitive strain injuries.
Excessive physical load: Lifting, pushing or carrying heavy objects without proper techniques can lead to serious injuries.

Strategies to improve ergonomics

Ergonomic assessment of the workplace
Conduct audits to identify ergonomic problems and areas for improvement in the design of spaces and processes.

Furniture adjustment
Provide adjustable chairs, height-adjustable desks and computer screen supports to encourage proper posture.

Ergonomics training
Train employees in safe lifting techniques, correct posture and proper use of equipment.

Tool design
Use ergonomic tools that minimise force and repetitive movements required to perform tasks.

Scheduled breaks
Promote regular breaks to reduce muscle fatigue and allow workers to stretch and relax.

Adaptation to individual needs
Design spaces and processes to suit the physical characteristics and abilities of each employee.

Case study: Sabentis

Sabentis, with its ergonomics module, facilitates the identification and correction of ergonomic risks. Through advanced posture analysis, customised assessments and automatic recommendations, the platform helps companies implement action plans that optimise workplace design and improve employee well-being.
Implementing ergonomic practices not only protects workers’ health, but also improves efficiency and team morale. Investing in solutions like those offered by Sabentis can transform the work environment into a safer, healthier and more productive space.