Is your company looking to enhance employee comfort, prevent injuries, and boost productivity through an ergonomics program?
Many small to mid-sized growing businesses face challenges in establishing such programs, not due to lack of interest but because the process can seem overwhelming. This blog post will delve into the common obstacles these companies encounter and how, today, implementing a turnkey ergonomics program has become more straightforward than ever with our ERGO GO solution.
Our team has collaborated with various sectors and identified consistent challenges in health and safety ergonomics programs. In response, we created the comprehensive ERGO GO program to address these issues, making it simple for any organization—whether small, medium, or large—to establish an effective ergonomics program quickly and easily.
Whether your company has an EHS team, internal ergonomists, or has 0 ergonomic resources, we have an option tailored for you.
The Importance of Comfort and Health in the Workplace with an Ergonomics Program:
A significant part of our lives is spent at work, so the environment we work in should support our physical health and well-being. However, comfort at work isn’t merely about feeling good—it’s about minimizing the risk of injuries and long-term health issues.
In my years of working, I’ve seen just how transformative a well-designed ergonomics program can be for a company. It’s fascinating how the physical setup of a workplace can influence everything from employee comfort to overall productivity. Ergonomic programs are no longer a luxury; they’ve become a necessity for fostering a healthier work environment. I’ve noticed that when companies pay attention to ergonomics, they not only improve the physical well-being of their employees but also enhance efficiency and job satisfaction.
Ergonomics is about more than just fancy chairs and desks. Rather, effective ergonomic programs require robust processes and systems. They require a strategy for effective procurement of best of class ergonomic solutions. An approach for prevention and also how to deal with employees who have discomfort. Ergonomic programs should have strategies for home office work if applicable, hybrid and on-site workers. In addition, ergonomic programs blend into new business furniture projects, to make sure you are investing in the correct solutions with new build outs. This approach helps prevent issues like repetitive strain injuries and other musculoskeletal disorders, which not only harm employees but also lead to lost workdays and higher healthcare costs.
The exciting part is there are now turnkey ergonomic programs that make it easier for companies of all sizes to implement them. When businesses adopt these programs, they tackle two critical areas: reducing the risk of injury and boosting productivity. In a world where every minute counts, creating an ergonomic workspace is one of the smartest investments a company can make.
I’ve seen firsthand how a successful ergonomics program can make a significant difference in helping a company thrive. When employees feel physically comfortable, they’re more focused, engaged, and productive. This focus on ergonomics sends a clear message that a company values its workforce, which can also enhance morale and retention rates.
- When employees work in a comfortable setting, they’re less likely to experience fatigue and discomfort.
- As a result, this translates into fewer sick days and a lower likelihood of chronic health problems.
- This proactive approach to workplace health can also improve morale, showing employees that their company values their well-being.
In my experience, companies that prioritize ergonomics often see a positive ripple effect. Employees who feel cared for are more likely to be loyal and work longer and harder.
Challenges Faced By Smaller Companies in Setting Up an Ergonomics Program:
Working in awkward positions or maintaining the same posture for long periods can lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), which accounts for about 33% of all worker injury and illness cases. Also studies show repeatedly that when companies invest in ergonomics, they’re not only fostering a healthier work environment but also enhancing overall productivity and employee satisfaction.
Top Six Reasons Why a Company Would Not Have an Ergonomics Program:
1. Limited Resources and Lack or Specialized Ergonomic Expertise:
In my experience, the primary challenges revolve around limited resources and a lack of specialized expertise. Many companies have their Human Resources teams being responsible for ergonomics, but with no expertise in this area. Even health and safety teams have little training in ergonomics and have a myriad of other responsibilities.
2. Lack of Time:
Another significant issue is the shortage of time and expertise to perform thorough ergonomic assessments. Smaller companies frequently lack the capacity to comprehensively evaluate their workspaces and apply best practices. Very often the health and safety officer that has 100 other responsibilities is also responsible for ergonomics. Others don’t have anyone but a person in Human Resources with no training to support this role. This often forces companies into a reactive stance, dealing with issues as they emerge rather than proactively preventing them.
3. There is No Ergonomics Program in Place:
Many small to mid-sized companies lack a formal ergonomics program. They often do not fully understand the requirements for implementation, leading to an absence of structured guidelines. Consequently, the procurement of tools and equipment is haphazard, often resulting in repeated purchases and a lack of standardized processes.
- The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported in 2020 that roughly 15% of small businesses (fewer than 100 employees) had implemented formal ergonomic practices as part of their workplace safety initiatives.
- A study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that about 25% of mid-sized firms (100-499 employees) report having an active ergonomics program in place.
- According to a survey conducted by the U.S. Department of Labor, approximately 40% of large companies (those with over 500 employees) have established formal ergonomics programs.
As a result, many companies might resort to quick fixes, like buying inexpensive chairs or making minor adjustments. Without a formal program, these measures typically fall short of comprehensive ergonomic needs. This can be particularly frustrating because even minor ergonomic issues can lead to significant discomfort and long-term health problems for employees.
An analysis by the Ergonomics Center at North Carolina State University suggests that resolving an ergonomic injury can cost an employer between $20,000 and $100,000 depending on the severity and duration of recovery.
4. Without a System-there is no Scalability:
Furthermore, there’s the issue of scalability. As these companies grow, the makeshift solutions become even less effective, leading to an increased risk of injuries and inefficiencies. In my view, the inability to implement scalable ergonomic solutions is a critical disadvantage for smaller to mid-sized businesses trying to compete in a fast-paced environment.
5. Hiring an External Outsourced Ergonomist Only When There is a Workers Comp Claim is Not an Ergonomics Program:
Many small and mid-sized companies tend to hire an ergonomist only after a Workers’ Compensation claim has been filed. At this point, expenses have already piled up, and the focus shifts to managing the immediate crisis. Prevention is not even discussed. Moreover, there is often no efficient system for acquiring the correct ergonomic products, no processes in place, all leading to delays and uncertainty about the right solutions. Duplicate products are often procured and the wrong ones, even if an assessment has been done. Questions about whether a chair meets an employee’s needs, is the correct size, or offers adequate support frequently go unanswered. Without standard protocols for proactive measures, the entire process becomes time-consuming and ineffective, failing to avert future claims.
6. Investing in Training Before Systems are In Place Doesn’t Have an ROI
Many companies invest in Ergonomic training programs at the wrong stage in response to costly claims. When faced with expensive claims, many companies believe that an ergonomic training session will solve the problem. If done prematurely, the impact is significantly reduced. It’s akin to teaching someone how to build a house without first ensuring they have the proper tools and materials.
Ergonomic training programs should be implemented after systems, processes, product strategies, and preventive measures are in place, not before.
Everything You Get With the Pacific Ergonomics Comprehensive ERGO GO Turnkey Ergonomics Programs
With ERGO GO, Pacific Ergonomics provides all of the processes, systems, products, and tactical solutions needed for any company to successfully implement a comprehensive ergonomic solution. Within a month, including meetings of internal shareholders and setting up your customized portal, you can go from having no ergonomic program to a robust best of class ergonomic program.
Two solutions include:
1. ERGO GO PRO: For companies that need turnkey support including certified ergonomists, product procurement, software catalog, processes, systems and installation.
2. ERGO GO SELECT: For companies that have on-site ergonomists, but need all of the other tools to streamline processes, systems and procurement and installation of products.
Features that are Available in the ERGO GO PLATFORMS INCLUDE:
- A dedicated team of certified ergonomist offering virtual support to conduct an ergonomic office assessment for your employees
- An integrated software catalog with streamlined ergonomic services
- A strategy to ensure new hires receive appropriate ergonomic products and setups.
- Customized ergonomic consulting for your specific industry
- A plan for home office, hybrid, and on-site workers.
- A method for current employees experiencing discomfort to request assessments using the integrated scheduling tool.
- A catalog of best of class ergonomic products that saves time, money, and ensures proper tool selection for safety and health.
- Software tools to streamline product recommendation approvals.
- An ERGO GO Portal to manage all transactions, employees, and statuses.
- Scheduling software saving everyone time in coordinating assessments.
- Virtual ergonomic assessment turnkey portal with pictures in all reports
- Full feature reports of ergonomic risks and effective solutions to solve them.
- Procurement process and tracking of account codes to departments.
- Turnkey procurement of products with an integrated system to track all spends.
- Reporting to track ergonomic spending and measure success outcomes.
- On-site installation services available
Benefits of Pacific Ergonomics Turnkey Ergonomics Program:
Our turnkey ergonomics program is a solution that any company can implement. Our unique and revolutionary approach addresses ergonomic needs from beginning to end, making it an ideal choice for companies of all sizes, especially ones that don’t have dedicated on-site EHS expertise on-staff.
Overall Benefits:
– Increased productivity and improved worker well-being
– Comfortable employees who know their employer cares
-Reduced risk of ergonomic injuries
-Decreased cost of ergonomic products
-Saved time from Human Resources, managers, EHS and employees
-Reduced risk of costly ergonomic injuries and recordables
–For every $1 invested in safety and ergonomics, there is a return of $3 to $6.This impressive return on investment underscores the value of adopting turnkey solutions. They not only boost productivity but also reduce the number of Workers Comp claims, offering a win-win for both employees and employers.
-Scalable helping to support growth
The best part, is to implement this program, your company does not need to have any knowledge about ergonomics, or about how to implement a successful ergonomics program. You do not need to hire an on-site ergonomists and your EHS team needs to spend little time. We do this for you.
We now provide a cost-effective way to implement ergonomic best practices without requiring in-house expertise. These programs typically include ergonomic assessments, employee training, and equipment recommendations tailored to the specific needs of a company. This holistic approach ensures that all aspects of workplace ergonomics are covered, from workstation setups to proper body mechanics during tasks.
Another major benefit is the scalability of these programs. As a company grows, the ergonomic solutions can easily be adjusted to accommodate new employees and changing work environments. This flexibility is crucial for maintaining a safe and productive workplace over the long term. By taking a proactive approach to ergonomics, businesses can create a healthier work environment, ultimately leading to happier and more engaged employees.
Wishing you and your team a happy, healthy and productive day. Call for more information on how we can help.
Written By:
Annie Berzanski
CEO
Pacific Ergonomics
619-546-0872 (101)
Call Pacific Ergonomics or email to learn more about our program. We look forward to learning about your goals and exploring how we can help with our specialized ergonomic EHS tools.
