

For a small business owner and his or her employees, today’s workplace typically requires spending most of your time in front of a computer or on a mobile device.
Ergonomics is DEFINITION.
An ergonomic office has many benefits. It enables you and your team to work more efficiently because you don’t physically tire out as fast. Ergonomic design helps prevent back pain, eyestrain, and repetitive motion injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Equally important, an ergonomic workplace prevents small aches and pains from developing into musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), which are potentially crippling injuries.
Ergonomics matter because if you have employees, an employee who develops an injury in the workplace can be eligible for worker’s compensation or even sue your business. It’s also important if you’re a one-person operation—if you are in so much pain you can barely work, what will happen to your business?
Sustained, repetitive, or awkward motions can take place in many industries, from typing in an office to lifting boxes in a warehouse or loading and unloading a dishwasher in a restaurant. Whatever your industry, observe the actions you and your employees do over and over.
Next, notice whether you feel discomfort.
Ask your employees, too. If people are feeling pain—even the beginning signs of pain—then you need to alleviate it.
Many MSDs can be prevented with some simple adjustments to the workplace. These can include office equipment such as:
Often, you can create a more ergonomic workplace without purchasing anything new. For example, if glare from a window is making it hard to see a computer screen, try moving your desk or rearranging where the computer sits. If your monitor is too low, put a book under it.
You can also improve ergonomics by adjusting the way you and your employees work. For instance, if a warehouse job requires lifting heavy boxes for an hour, have employees take turns so that no one is lifting for more than an hour at a time.
3. Break it up
Taking regular breaks is key to getting the full benefits from an ergonomic workplace. Basically, a break should provide the chance to do the opposite of your normal posture and tasks. If you work hunched at a computer eight hours a day, get up, stretch and walk around once an hour. If you stand most of the day, sit down and rest or walk around.
Give your eyes a regular break from the computer or phone screen by staring at a blank wall, closing your eyes, or rubbing your hands together and cupping them over your closed eyes for a minute.
If you have employees, you can have everyone take breaks at the same time and lead the team in some gentle stretches, walking in place, or other light exercises.
Monitor the results of the changes you make and continue adjusting your workplace as needed to make it more ergonomic.
The following resources can help you learn more and develop your own ergonomic workplace:
Copyright © 2023 SCORE Association, SCORE.org
Funded, in part, through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.