Office Ergonomic Assessments

An office ergonomic assessment (also called an ergonomic risk assessment) is an objective measure of risk factors in a work environment that may lead to musculoskeletal disorders or injuries.

The goal of an office ergonomic assessment is to identify risk factors and quantify them in order to make measurable improvements to the work environment. A thorough ergonomic assessment can create a foundation for a safer, healthier, less injury-prone workplace, and improve overall workplace wellness.

Most work-related injuries occur due to maintained awkward posture, forceful movements, and external factors such as repetition of tasks which can affect health and work output. These factors can also have serious implications for an employee’s health since they can strain bones, tendons, and muscles.

Ergonomic problems are usually caused by technological changes like repetitive work, specialized tasks, and computer jobs that give people little opportunity to exercise. People who suffer from ergonomic problems end up with back pain, shoulder aches, headaches, and eye problems among other issues.

What Happens at an Office Ergonomic Assessment?   

The ergonomic evaluator carries out a workstation analysis and assessment at the office or home to identify current problem areas or future risks that may impact employee health and performance. Office ergonomic assessments can be performed as a virtual assessment or in-person evaluation at the site of employment. Each assessment can range from thirty minutes to an hour; the first 10-15 minutes of the assessment involves an interview with the employee, and the following 15-20 minutes provides an outlined list of observations about the workstation, the problems identified, recommendations for improvement, and modifications needed. In the event a written report of assessment findings is required, there may be an additional charge for this document. Drive time to and from the assessment may also be included in the cost of the evaluation.Some examples of ergonomic modifications for an office could include providing standing desks, adjustable chairs, and workstations, footrests, ergonomic keyboards, and/or lumbar supports. 

Can Office Ergonomics Affect Productivity? 

Although it’s not the primary factor affecting work productivity, an ergonomic assessment is still an important and underrated aspect that is integral for overall productivity. For the best possible outcome, it is important that businesses act on the feedback of the ergonomic assessment report.

For more information or questions, please connect with the Navisess team.