The concept of ergonomics has received a lot of attention lately because of the impact it can have on a light industrial workplace. According to the OMCIS Publishing Group, “industrial ergonomics could be defined as the branch of science that aims at achieving an optimal fitting of the work environment and job activities to the worker.” Let’s now discuss the benefits of implementing ergonomics into your workplace.
Increased Safety for Workers
Employees in a light industrial environment are prone to a variety of injuries due to the nature of their job. Performing tasks such as lifting, pushing and pulling heavy items, being in awkward positions for long periods of time and performing repetitive tasks put them at risk for developing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
But by integrating ergonomics such as properly sized equipment, well-designed tools and proper training, you can significantly minimize the potential for injury and MSDs. Besides the immediate benefit of protecting the wellbeing of your employees, you’re less likely to get hit with workers’ compensation claims and are more likely to see a lower absenteeism rate.
Higher Employee Satisfaction
When workers are healthy and able to achieve more with less effort, they’re probably going to be happier and experience a higher level of job satisfaction. This is important for the following reasons:
- It helps you create a positive company culture with an emphasis on safety
- It leads to a higher level of employee morale
- Employees are likely to put forth more effort rather than doing just the bare minimum
- You can often lower your turnover rate
- It can give your company a better overall reputation
Increased Productivity
When your workplace has proper ergonomic conditions, it allows operations to run with considerably greater efficiency than it would otherwise. Combine this with lower absenteeism and dedicated employees, and it’s a recipe for increased productivity and fewer setbacks. Basically, you can run your company with less friction and get the most from your resources.
Improved Product Quality
Poor ergonomics can be detrimental to work quality because it can contribute to worker fatigue where employees are unable to perform a job to the best of their ability. However, by equipping your workplace with adequate ergonomics, you expect better product quality because workers should be able to complete their shifts with fewer setbacks and have more energy.
When you examine all of the advantages associated with proper workplace ergonomics, it becomes obvious that it’s well worth your time. The best part is that it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. In fact, the American Psychological Association states “ergonomics is a cost-effective means of product enhancement. Ergonomics applications – based on solid research findings – not only improve the workplace, but make products and processes more competitive in the world market.”
Please contact our experienced recruiting team at Encadria Staffing Solutions for all of your hiring needs today!