Forget vacation time and flex time. Could new technology or office furniture be the next sought-after workplace perk? If you’ve got a pain in your neck, it may not be from chatty co-workers or continual demands from the boss.
According to Staples Advantage, the business-to-business division of Staples Inc., office furniture and technology can play a big role in how employees feel and perform during the day. Results show 86 percent of workers suffer discomfort from office furniture and equipment.
Are higher-ups aware of this crush of shaky desks, unsupportive chair cushions and hastily placed workstations?
The Staples Advantage survey shows there’s room for improvement.
Seventy-seven percent of companies don’t evaluate ergonomics and 70 percent of respondents say their workspace isn’t ergonomically tuned for them. Meanwhile, the survey found that in a more comfortable workspace:
- Nearly 1 in 2 office workers would be more productive
- More than 1 in 3 say they would be a more pleasant person to work with
- 35 percent would be less stressed
- 36 percent would sleep better at night
One good chair can make all the difference, say the experts at Staples.
Chairs should be the correct size, designed for specific tasks and adjusted appropriately, said John Michael, vice president and general manager for the furniture and design business of Staples Advantage. “With an ergonomic chair – one that alleviates back pressure and promotes good posture – employees feel more energetic and ready to tackle the day.”
By Susan Shalhoub
Special to the Worcester Business Journal
Here at Ergonomic Evolution we fully endorse the new school way of thinking of ergonomics in today’s workplace. The goal of getting the individual setup for in their optimal position and then training and encouraging them to vary that position throughout the day is key. The body is not designed to be stationary and the future of ergonomics is all about natural movement and variation. Our motto, the best position is the next position.
Contact Ergonomic Evolution today and see for yourself how this common sense approach to ergonomic correction and prevention can make a huge impact in all areas of your life.
Ergonomic Evolution's Blog ~ Don't just sit there...evolve! 