How do you optimize employee performance and well-being using ergonomic tools?

1 Benefits of ergonomic tools

Ergonomic tools can help you prevent musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), which are injuries or illnesses that affect the muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, or joints. MSDs can result from repetitive motions, awkward postures, excessive force, vibration, or contact stress. Ergonomic tools can reduce these risk factors by adapting to the user's body, posture, and movement, allowing for more comfort and efficiency. Ergonomic tools can also enhance the cognitive and emotional well-being of workers, by reducing mental workload, frustration, and boredom, and increasing satisfaction, motivation, and engagement.

2 Types of ergonomic tools

Ergonomic tools are available for a variety of purposes and functions. For instance, ergonomic keyboards and mice often have curved or split designs, adjustable angles, and soft or textured surfaces to reduce wrist strain and improve hand position. Ergonomic chairs and desks can be adjusted for height, depth, and tilt, as well as include lumbar support, armrests, and footrests to support the spine, neck, shoulders, and legs. Ergonomic lighting and monitors typically have adjustable brightness, contrast, and color settings as well as anti-glare screens to reduce eye strain and headaches. Additionally, ergonomic tools and equipment have handles, grips, or levers that fit the hand size and shape while also reducing vibration and noise to prevent hand-arm injuries and fatigue.

3 How to choose ergonomic tools

When selecting ergonomic tools, several factors should be taken into account, such as the goals, requirements, and preferences of the task and user, the fit and function of the tool, and the cost and quality. Additionally, consider how often and how long the tool will be used, as well as the physical and mental characteristics of the user. It's also recommended to consult with employees, managers, and experts such as ergonomists or safety specialists to get their input and feedback. By doing so you can ensure that you are choosing a tool that is easy to use, effective for the task, reliable, durable, safe, and cost-effective.

4 How to use ergonomic tools

Using ergonomic tools correctly is essential to maximize their benefits and avoid potential problems. You should adjust the tool to your individual needs and preferences, such as changing the height, angle, or position of your chair, desk, keyboard, mouse, monitor, or lighting. Additionally, use the tool properly and safely by following the instructions, guidelines, or training provided by the manufacturer, supplier, or employer. Alternating the tool with other methods or tools can also be beneficial; for example, switch between different types of keyboards, mice, or tools to vary your hand movements and reduce repetition. Taking breaks and stretching regularly is also important; for example, take short breaks every 20 to 30 minutes to rest your eyes, hands and muscles and do some simple stretches to relieve tension and improve blood circulation.

5 How to evaluate ergonomic tools

Evaluating ergonomic tools is important to measure their effectiveness and identify any issues or improvements. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct regular evaluations of the ergonomic tools by surveying and interviewing employees, managers, and experts. Additionally, observations and measurements should be made using cameras, sensors, or timers to record the use and performance of the ergonomic tools. Tests and assessments can also be conducted to measure the impact of the ergonomic tools on the health and well-being of the user with scales, questionnaires, or medical exams. The results of these evaluations should then be used to make adjustments, modifications, or replacements of the ergonomic tools as needed.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?