Sometimes after a shift at the office, you feel aches and pains in your hands, wrists, neck and back. Could your employer neglect employee needs for proper ergonomics?
EHS Today explores ergonomics and how they facilitate a comfortable, safe work environment. Your employer may bear responsibility for musculoskeletal injuries you sustain on the clock.
Ergonomic-related illnesses and injuries
You work in a typical office in Nebraska, but that does not mean you do not have to worry about a serious workplace injury. Without the proper desk, keyboard, office chair and computer accessories placement, you risk suffering musculoskeletal disorders such as tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, back pain and tenosynovitis. Those who suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome may need to undergo surgery, the second-most-common musculoskeletal procedure. After the surgery, not all patients return to their former positions.
Preventing illness and injury
Your employer should take steps to get ahead of ergonomic-related injury and illness. That means performing risk assessments to determine specific hazards and at-risk workers. Examples of hazards include posture, stress, force, temperature and vibration. Assessment results help companies put preventative measures in place to protect workers and their bodies. Even if your company cannot entirely resolve a hazard, it could at least reduce the potential for employee harm.
Saving money on illness and injury
Besides keeping you and your coworkers safe, focusing on ergonomics helps companies save money. Employers may notice increased employee productivity and fewer workplace accidents. The money spent on ergonomic materials may pay for itself over time.
Your employer should take action to protect you from unnecessary harm. Safeguard your right to a safe work environment and peace of mind.