“Safe Work Australia estimated the total economic costs of workplace injuries for the 2012–2013 financial year was $61.8 billion, representing 4.1 per cent of GDP for the same period.” (Abrahams 2022)
As business owners, we understand the need to improve workplace efficiency and reduce absenteeism, and there is only one proven way to achieve both: ergonomics.
What Is Ergonomics
Ergonomics is the science of designing workplace equipment, tasks, or environment to fit the needs of those who use them, aiming to promote safety and eliminate discomfort and health risks.
5 Proven Benefits of Ergonomics in the Workplace
If you apply proper ergonomics in your workplace, you and your employees will reap the following benefits:
- Increased productivity
- Reduced absenteeism
- Lower healthcare costs
- Improved morale
- Increased job satisfaction
Increased Productivity
Many studies prove that employees who work in ergonomic environments are more productive than those who do not. It reduces the risk of fatigue, strain, and injury, allowing workers to do their job seamlessly without discomfort.
According to Ergolink.com.au, providing training and ergonomic equipment offers better results for the company.
According to the 2013 case study, 200 government office workers were split into two groups. The first group received a 90-minute ergonomics training session, while the second group did the training along with an ergonomic chair.
After one year, the group that received both the training and the chair experienced a 17.8% increase in productivity.
Reduced Absenteeism
Absent employees will cost your company a lot of money.
According to Safe Work Australia, an injured worker may need recovery for an average of almost five weeks. During this time, you will need to hire a temporary replacement for the job and provide a compensation claim to the injured employee.
Although there are many other reasons workers don’t report for work, one of the most common are work-related injuries and health issues.
With proper ergonomics, you can lessen the costs and reasons associated with absenteeism.
Lower Healthcare Costs
Because of the reduced risk of work-related illnesses and injuries, it will lower the number of compensation claims and medical treatments.
Improved Morale
When the employees feel safe and comfortable in their work environment, they will feel more satisfied with their job. It gives them a reason to stay in the company, thus improving morale.
Increased Job Satisfaction
Workers will be more likely to enjoy working if they use office tools and equipment designed to suit their bodies and capabilities.
Bottomline
There’s no exact number on how much ROI you will get from investing in providing ergonomics training and equipment to your employees. But two things are for sure. It will increase your workers’ productivity by more than 15% and reduce the health compensation you’ll have to pay for injuries and accidents.
If you have questions about business or need guidance and coaching, schedule a call now!
