The word "Ergonomics" came from two Greek terms intended to mean "work laws". Today, we define ergonomics as the study of working practices - discovering methods to ensure that jobs physically fit the people working in them. The more we adapt our workspaces according to the concept of ergonomics, the more we reduce the chances of ergonomic stressors and disorders having an impact on our productivity, happiness, and health.
Ergonomics focuses upon the work environment - considering the design and function of tools, lighting, controls, displays, and workstations in fitting the physical requirements of the employee. Unfortunately, although numerous studies have proven how helpful ergonomics can be, many workers and employers still don't understand how a lack of ergonomics negatively impact health.
Ergonomics focuses upon the work environment - considering the design and function of tools, lighting, controls, displays, and workstations in fitting the physical requirements of the employee. Unfortunately, although numerous studies have proven how helpful ergonomics can be, many workers and employers still don't understand how a lack of ergonomics negatively impact health.
What Can Happen If You Ignore Ergonomics?
Proper ergonomic design is an essential factor in maintaining physical fitness, and optimizing work-related activity. The study of ergonomics provides essential guidelines on preventing illness and injury, allowing for individuals to avoid issues such as repetitive strain and discomfort. Some of the most common injuries surrounding improper ergonomics include pain in the hands, wrists, shoulders, neck, back, head, and eyes. Perhaps the most worrisome areas for some people surround vision, and musculoskeletal problems. The musculoskeletal system of the body is comprised of structures that help you to move - such as ligaments, tendons, joints, bones and muscles. MSDs related to work are one of the leading causes in the world of injuries and illnesses that lead to lost workdays. Regardless of the industry you're in, plenty of different occupations expose workers to MSD risk factors - from working in awkward body postures, to performing similar or identical tasks repetitively. Some examples of musculoskeletal problems related to ergonomics include:- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome - an issue that effects the nerves in the wrist after repetitive pressure upon the nerve for some time.
- Bursitis - an inflammation of the small fluid sac that lubricates the areas wherein tissues, bone, muscle, skin, tendons, and ligaments rub against one another.
- Tendon Injury - damage to the strong fibers used to connect bone and muscle - most tendon injuries happen close to joints - such as around the shoulder, ankle, knee, or elbow.
- Muscle Strains - pain caused by overstretching muscles - usually around the back, neck, and shoulders.
Other Ergonomic-Related Health Issues
The problems of poor ergonomics in the workstation aren't just restricted to musculoskeletal issues. Indeed, a significant portion of health-problems related to poor ergonomics stem from bad posture - a problem which most people overlook, but can lead to:- Greater levels of stress - studies conducted by Harvard University discovered that people with better posture had 25% less cortisol (the stress hormone) in their systems.
- Decreased happiness - the way that you sit may not seem relevant to your mood, but science has shown that slouching, alongside the results of poor blood circulation, can have a significant impact on your happiness.
- Blocked digestion - sitting in a crunched-up position for extended periods of time folds up your intestines - leading to poor digestion and greater risk of stomach problems.