Ergonomics

Ergonomics: definition, meaning and implementation in the work context

Ergonomics is the science and practice of optimally adapting working conditions to people's physical and psychological needs. The aim is to promote the health and well-being of employees while increasing productivity and efficiency. The focus is on minimising stress and risks to prevent work-related complaints and illnesses in the long term.

The importance of ergonomics in the world of work

Ergonomics is much more than just using a comfortable office chair. It encompasses a holistic view of the interaction between people, the working environment, and tasks. At the centre is the idea that work design should meet both physical requirements and mental capacities.

Why is ergonomics important?

• Health protection: Poor ergonomics can lead to complaints such as back pain, neck tension or carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Productivity: Employees who feel comfortable at their workplace work more efficiently and make fewer mistakes.
• Employee satisfaction: An ergonomically designed working environment increases well-being and promotes employee loyalty.
• Cost savings: By reducing sickness-related absences and accidents at work, companies can save considerable costs.

Ergonomics in the office Key aspects and tips for implementation

Office ergonomics plays a central role in the modern working world. The design of an ergonomic workplace should take the following elements into account :

• Workstation design
  • Desk and chair: The desk should be height-adjustable so that you can work both sitting and standing. An ergonomic office chair with an adjustable backrest and armrests ensures a correct sitting posture.
  • Monitor positioning: The monitor should be positioned so that the top edge of the screen is at eye level and the distance is around 50-70 cm.
  • Keyboard and mouse: Ergonomically shaped input devices reduce the strain on wrists and forearms.
• Lighting
  • Balanced lighting, ideally with a proportion of daylight, is crucial. Direct light or glare should be avoided.
• Movement and posture
  • Dynamic sitting behaviour and regular changes between sitting, standing and walking promote blood circulation and prevent tension.
  • Regular stretching exercises during work can relax the muscles and stimulate circulation.

Ergonomics in the home office

With the increase in home office workplaces, the importance of ergonomics has also shifted to the private sphere. Many employees work from home under sub-optimal conditions, which increases health risks.

Tips for an ergonomic workplace at home:

• Invest in ergonomic furniture: A suitable office chair and desk should also be available in the home office.
• Flexibility through mobile solutions: A laptop stand or external keyboard can help to fulfil ergonomic standards.
• Breaks and exercise: It is essential to take regular breaks and integrate exercise into your daily routine, especially at home.

Companies should actively support their employees in implementing ergonomic working conditions in the home office, for example, through subsidies or training.

Ergonomics in production and logistics

Ergonomics is relevant not only in the office but is also crucial in areas such as production and logistics. Here, the focus is often on physically demanding activities.

Ergonomic measures in production:

• Adjusting the working height of machines and workbenches.
• Use of aids such as lifting equipment to move heavy loads.
• Design of movement sequences that reduce monotonous and strenuous activities.

In logistics, the ergonomic design of workstations such as storage racks and packing stations is essential in order to minimise physical strain and increase efficiency.

Psychological ergonomics

In addition to physical ergonomics, psychological ergonomics also plays an important role. It deals with the adaptation of working conditions to the cognitive and emotional needs of employees.

Key aspects of psychological ergonomics:

• Avoiding excessive demands through clear task structures and realistic objectives.
• Creating a pleasant working atmosphere through respectful communication and flat hierarchies.
• Promoting concentration by minimising distractions and noise.

Ergonomics and technology: the role of digitalisation

Digitalisation offers new opportunities to create ergonomic workplaces. Examples of this include:

• Adaptive furniture: intelligent desks and chairs that automatically adapt to the needs of employees.
• Wearables: Devices that analyse movement patterns and make recommendations for better ergonomics.
• Virtual reality (VR): VR technologies can be used to provide training on ergonomics or to virtually simulate workstations.

Legal requirements and standards

In Germany and the EU, there are numerous regulations that oblige companies to comply with ergonomic standards. These include

• Occupational Health and Safety Act (ArbSchG): Obliges employers to minimise hazards in the workplace.
• Display Screen Equipment Ordinance (BildscharbV): Regulates the design of VDU workstations.
• DIN standards: Standards such as DIN EN ISO 9241 define ergonomic requirements.

Companies should carry out regular risk assessments and implement ergonomic improvements in order to fulfil these requirements.

Ergonomics as part of the corporate culture

A holistic ergonomics strategy should be part of the corporate culture. This includes

• Training and awareness-raising: Employees should be regularly informed and trained on ergonomic issues.
• Participation: Employees should be involved in the design of their workplaces.
• Evaluation: The effectiveness of ergonomic measures should be regularly reviewed and adjusted.

Conclusion

Ergonomics is an essential component of modern work design and has far-reaching effects on the health, satisfaction and productivity of employees. Companies that invest in ergonomic measures benefit from reduced sickness costs, higher efficiency and greater employee loyalty.

Further information can be found in other articles in our HR lexicon, for example on the topic of workplace design or health in the workplace.