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In a study conducted by AOA (American Osteopathic Association), majority of office employees are experiencing discomfort or going through pain while working. Some of the common areas of pain include: neck, wrist, shoulders and low back. As a result, workers are often unproductive, frustrated, unsatisfied and fatigued.
Common Causes of Workplace Pain
Too much workload
Working excessively has a negative impact not just on the employees’ physical body but as well on the emotional and mental state. Being overworked can make a worker stressed, irritable and unmotivated. In addition, it can also result to sleep problems, headaches and even gain weight.
Poorly designed workstation
Simple things like the improper arrangement of desk and chair can have a major impact on the employees’ health. Sitting in an office chair for a prolonged time can add pressure in the lower back region. This static posture and lack of regular exercise can deteriorate the spinal health.
Poorly sanitized work area
When employees are forced to work in an unclean environment, they are at risk of developing several illnesses including but not limited to occupational asthma, dermatitis and other types of skin allergies. More so, exposure to dirt and hazardous substances can sometimes lead to long-term health issues so it is critical to address it right away.
Uncontrolled Noise
Some jobs require employees to work in a noisy environment. Exposure to loud noise is sometimes unavoidable but it can be hazardous to health. It can damage a person’s hearing ability or it can cause “ringing” in the ears. At the end of the day, employees are also more stressed and fatigued.
Improper Monitor or Computer Screen
Using a computer on a daily basis can cause health problems in the eyes, back, arms, wrist, shoulders and neck. Most of the time, the computer screen is not the problem itself but how it is used. Little things like distance of the employee from the monitor, the number of hours the employee needs to use it, and back support play an important role.
Lack of safety procedures
Offices that have no definite or written plan on how to perform tasks safely is an indicator of the company’s level of professionalism. It can lead to accidents and health threats. Casual instructions won’t work. It is crucial to conduct proper training so everyone is well-informed.
Workplace ergonomics can address why employees get hurt at work or why they get ill. Employers have a big role in preventing such illnesses and accidents from happening. Here are some of the precautionary measures that can be done:
- Make sure workload is just appropriate and that employees are able to take sufficient break time from work.
- If need be, hire a professional designer to plan the office interior. This is the first step in avoiding anything that can be hazardous to health or anything that may cause accidents at work.
- Promote personal hygiene at work. Clean as you go. Create a company culture that encourages everyone to keep the workplace as sanitized as possible.
- Noise reduction is helpful to increase employee productivity. Regulate the loudness of voice when speaking to each other. Create office policies that would minimize noise at work.
- Use appropriate equipment at work. Computer screen must meet minimum standard requirements. Proper lighting and ventilation must also be considered.
- Conduct safety training for employees. Mandate everyone to follow safety procedures. In times of events or incidences, they know what to do.
Workplace ergonomics is the scientific method of designing the work environment to ensure that employees are able to avoid hazards, accidents and anything that may cause pain. Contact Active Life today to know more. Call 512-474-5433 to talk to us.