Ergonomics and the Remote Worker
Working remotely is a quickly growing trend.
Per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “in 2015 38% of the workforce in management, business, and financial operations and 35 percent of those employed in professional and related occupations, did some or all of their work from home.” Working from “anywhere” can be an ergonomic and injury prevention challenge both for remote workers and employers with a remote workforce.
Remote workers tend to be more productive, and happier employees because they can maintain their chosen lifestyle and work from “anywhere”. Working from “anywhere” is different for each remote worker. Some have a dedicated office space in their home, others prefer a co-working space, many spend hours on end in a coffee shop and some travel the world. Many individuals work in a combination thereof.
The remote worker needs to be educated in best ergonomics.
The home office or dedicated office space is the easiest place to make proper adjustments to fit the office to the worker, avoid poor lighting or glare that can cause eye strain and have appropriate room temperatures. But, there are ways to tweak the workstation at the coffee shop, airport and other spaces to make them more ergonomic friendly and to avoid unnecessary strain to the body.
The human factor is just as important in injury prevention.
Remote workers need to have a basic understanding of what behaviors may lead to common MSDs (Musculoskeletal disorders). They should know minor symptoms to be aware of to be sure to get professional intervention to prevent the symptoms from becoming a more chronic and costly problem. Remote workers should also know when to move, stretch, and how to be in the best posture to avoid undue stresses to the body.
Wellness is another important part of the ergonomic/injury prevention equation.
Getting plenty of sleep, drinking plenty of water, having a positive attitude, getting the right amount of exercise and having a good work-life balance also are major factors in preventing MSDs.
Contact Optimum Ergo today to learn more on how we can help your remote work force.
