The following is a RV Industry Association’s News & Insights report.
Workplace ergonomics is a concept that has garnered increasing attention over the years as more and more organizations recognize the importance of designing workspaces that promote health, safety and productivity.
Although ergonomics is often associated with desk and computer setups, its application in the workplace extends far beyond, helping to prevent serious injuries in sectors such as construction, manufacturing and materials handling, among others.
According to Safety Culture, ergonomic disorders are the fastest-growing category of work-related illness with the most recent statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics showing that they account for 56% to 63% percent of illnesses reported to OSHA. Further, around two million work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) also occur yearly in the United States alone.
Safety Culture shares why the benefits of an ergonomics safety program can not only make an impact on the lives of employees, but it can also make a difference in the overall efficiency of the entire organization. Here are some of the most notable benefits of ergonomic safety in the workplace:
Helps reduce costs: By systematically reducing ergonomic risk factors, you can prevent costly MSDs. With approximately $1 out of every $3 in workers’ compensation costs attributed to MSDs, this represents an opportunity for significant cost savings.
Helps prevent other incidents and injuries: Workers who experience discomfort on the job may find shortcuts or workarounds that could result in incidents and injuries such as slips, falls and lacerations. Implementing an ergonomics program and encouraging workers to report ergonomic issues early helps prevent MSDs as well as other common workplace incidents.
Improves overall productivity: Healthy employees are your most valuable asset; creating and fostering the safety and health culture at your company will lead to improved productivity for your organization. Effective ergonomic safety programs can promote good posture at all times, less exertion, fewer motions and better heights and reaches, thus helping employees to work more comfortably and efficiently in their workstations.
Helps foster employee engagement and satisfaction: Employees notice when the company is putting forth its best efforts to ensure their health and safety. It shows your company’s commitment to safety and health as a core value. If an employee does not experience fatigue and discomfort during their workday, it can reduce turnover, decrease absenteeism, improve morale and increase employee involvement.