Workplace Ergonomics: Improve Your Sitting Posture When Returning to the Office

With a focus on workplace ergonomics, employers and workers alike can strive to enhance their individual safety, efficiency, comfort, and health.

If you, like many other professionals, have spent the last few weeks or months working from home, you may have gotten into the habit of sitting slumped over in an armchair while you work. Some employees completed tasks working from their laptops while lying down on a couch or bed. While this may seem comfortable, working in any of these unusual environments can  impair one’s posture. Whether you are returning to your office or are continuing to work from home, keep these basics of workplace ergonomics in mind. With a focus on workplace ergonomics, employers and workers alike can strive to enhance their individual safety, efficiency, comfort, and health.

Effects of Improper Sitting Posture

Each day your body may endure stress from an improper sitting posture. Sitting with your legs crossed seems comfortable  at the time, but can eventually lead to knee pain. Bad posture puts unnecessary pressure on the nerves and the spine, leading to joint pain, poor circulation, and musculoskeletal disorders. Correcting poor posture can help reduce the risk of injury, chronic pain, and long-term health problems, which also helps employers limit the costs associated with employee healthcare.

How to Fix Bad Posture at Work

You can correct bad posture by sitting up straight with your feet on the floor, shoulders back, and head straight to avoid tilting. Sitting for long periods increases the risk of heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and stroke. Taking multiple breaks throughout the day, stretching, and walking will realign the spine. Investing in ergonomic back support will also help keep the spine straight and avoid the onset of joint discomfort.

Disadvantages of Improper Sitting Posture for Employers

Bad sitting posture has several disadvantages. First, workers who are constantly experiencing pain are often less productive. Joint pain can often cause employees to miss work because they need rest or medical attention. This will eventually lead to a rise in medical expenses for the employer. Worker morale and job satisfaction will decrease if staff members sense that their employer isn’t taking the necessary steps to improve workplace ergonomics. It is essential for employers to take responsibility for their team’s health for the sake of productivity and overall efficiency. Educating their teams about the importance of ergonomics is a valuable first step.  Each employee is also responsible for maintaining overall health and practicing proper sitting posture. Together, businesses and employees can combat ergonomic issues in the workplace and create a safe and productive work environment.

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