Many people spend a large part of their time at work. That makes it all the more important to take care of your health at the workplace, too. Here are 6 tips on how you can make your workplace more ergonomic and therefore healthier.
What does ergonomics mean?
Ergonomics is a field that is located in the science of work and translates as “the laws of human work”. The definition sounds a bit strange at first, but it becomes clearer when you consider the goals. Ergonomics is intended to ensure a healthy workplace as well as an optimal working environment in order to strengthen the mental and physical well-being of employees. In addition to the commonly known office equipment, this also includes factors such as lighting and noise conditions, organization, technical equipment and even more. Accordingly, there are many approaches to promote ergonomics in the workplace and thus the health of employees.
Screen
The screen should be at eye level to avoid misalignment of the neck. Height-adjustable monitors or attachments that raise the position of the screen are suitable for this purpose. In addition, there should be a distance of about one arm’s length between the head and the monitor, and the monitor should be at least 22″ in size.
Mouse & keyboard
An ergonomically shaped mouse as well as keyboard can help to alleviate or prevent wrist pain as well as carpal tunnel syndrome due to their special shape, as they reduce misalignment and pressure on the wrist.
Stand-sit desk
If you have the opportunity, you should switch to a standing working position several times throughout the day. This relieves the spine and back and can prevent tension and pain.
Regular breaks
Breaks give us the opportunity to relax briefly and devote ourselves to our tasks again with renewed energy. In addition to a somewhat longer lunch break, it is above all the small breathers in between that help to reduce stress, relax the eyes and prevent muscle tension. Five minutes per hour is already beneficial. During this time, you should look into the distance as a contrast to the screen work. Small movement snacks, such as a few knee bends or light stretching exercises, are ideal for counteracting the negative effects of sitting.
Plants
Plants improve the working atmosphere and some of them even the indoor climate. In addition, plants provide a pleasant working environment, because the color green has a relaxing effect on us. It’s so easy to bring more serenity into the office.
Office chair & sitting position
An ergonomic office chair is important, especially if you sit for several hours a day. The individual parts of the chair, such as the back and armrests, should be individually adjustable. It is also advisable to bend each leg and arm at a 90° angle so that the legs are parallel to the seat.
