New research presented at the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES) 2014 Annual Meeting reveals that a comprehensive, proactive workplace ergonomics program can help prevent employee discomfort and injury. For the study, Alan Hedge, coauthor of “Proactive Office Ergonomics Really Works,” and Jonathan Puleio surveyed more than 200 employees at a software company that was relocating to a new facility with a proactive program that included group training, ergonomic workstations, and one-on-one consultations, according to an HFES news release.
Participants offered their opinion on how the new program compared with their former workplace, which did not provide routine assessments or ergonomic equipment. Following the relocation, employees reported significantly less musculoskeletal and visual discomfort as well as higher levels of happiness and job satisfaction, as indicated on the HFES news release. Employees also said they thought the ergonomics program would possibly enhance company retention and recruitment.
Hedge states, “Proactive programs are preventive and aim to design out problems before the workplace is built, making it much easier to maintain and manage.” Hedge adds, “A good ergonomics program is extremely beneficial to both employers and employees. It is a highly cost-effective way to improve performance, health and well-being, and happiness.”
Hedge says, “We can expect even better results for companies that fully commit to the ergonomic redesign of their workplaces and the establishment of a proactive ergonomics program.”
Source: Human Factors and Ergonomics Society
