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You need to make sure that your employees are using their equipment in a healthy manner to forestall workers’ compensation claims, maintain productivity, and be good corporate citizens.
Effective Ergonomic Interventions for Office Workers
When was the last time you sat down with your employees to discuss the way they sit, move, and lift? Even though there’s no OSHA ergonomics standard, it’s your duty under the law to provide a workplace free of recognized hazards. Here are some easy tips:
Stand up. Get up and move very 60 minutes. Stand whenever you can. Take advantage of standing-height desks or workstations if they are available. When you’re on your feet, change positions often and don’t lock your knees.
Adjust your screen. To avoid neck strain and shoulder cramping, raise your monitor to eye level. Use a stand or a stack of books if needed.
Join us on Wednesday, June 17, for our in-depth webinar, Employee-Driven Safety: How to Grab Workers’ Attention, Harness Their Buy-In, and Achieve Safety Excellence
Sit properly. Sitting up straight may not be the best strategy for you. If you have an ergonomic chair, learn how to adjust it. Remember to lean into the chair back, which lets the chair do its job of supporting you. “Perching” on the edge of the seat doesn’t provide back or torso support.
Take a load off. No matter what position you’re in, avoid remaining static for an extended period. Try setting an alarm on your calendar or download an app to remind you to get up and move. Refill your water. Do a lap around the building. Walk over to a colleague’s desk to convey a message rather than sending an e-mail.
Achieving safety excellence requires you to involve employees in every aspect of safety—from the initial development of your safety program to their day-to-day performance. Click here to learn more!
Lighten up. Work gets stressful, and laughing is an excellent antidote to stress. Seek out something or someone funny and find something to laugh about. It will do your (mind and) body good.
Need ergonomic ideas for other workers? Stretch your resources with Safety.BLR.com.