Workplace ergonomics: Reducing injury and workers compensation risk

Ergonomics is essential for maintaining a safe and healthy workplace. By understanding and applying ergonomic principles, employers can reduce the risk of injuries such as lower back pain, neck strain, and gradual onset conditions. These improvements not only protect employees but also help minimise Workers Compensation claims, supporting business productivity and wellbeing.

What is ergonomics?

Ergonomics is the science of designing work environments and tasks to fit the needs of employees. It considers both the overall workspace and individual workstations, aiming to prevent injuries and promote comfort. Effective ergonomics can improve physical and mental health, boost morale, and enhance business performance.

Why ergonomics matters for employers

Employers have a duty of care to provide a safe environment for their team and the public. Addressing ergonomic risks is part of this responsibility. Taking out Workers Compensation Insurance is also essential to protect employees, who are a business’s most valuable asset.

Proactive ergonomic practices

Being proactive means guiding employees on safe work procedures and encouraging them to report and adjust their work environments. For example, a graphic designer and a sales representative may use the same mouse differently. The designer might need an ergonomic mouse to prevent wrist strain, while the sales representative may benefit from a headset for frequent phone use. Working together to find solutions promotes healthier workplace habits.

Conducting ergonomic assessments

An ergonomic assessment helps identify risks and solutions in the workplace. Using checklists can highlight routine physical activities and areas for improvement. Consider including:

• Employee workspaces
• Hot desks and pop-up stations
• Meeting and communal areas
• Car setups for work travel
• Bathrooms and kitchens
• Remote or home offices

Ergonomic office equipment

Investing in ergonomic equipment encourages healthy posture and comfort. Examples include:

• Adjustable office chairs or stools
• Contoured computer mice and keyboards
• Monitor stands
• Standing or adjustable desks
• Laptop and computer lecterns

The benefits of ergonomics

Addressing ergonomics increases efficiency, improves posture, and boosts morale. It reduces workplace injuries, absenteeism, insurance claims, and associated costs, supporting a healthier and more productive team.

Ergonomics for remote and home offices

With more employees working remotely, ergonomic risks extend beyond traditional offices. Safe Work Australia’s information sheet for Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) outlines best practices for home office ergonomics, including workstation setup, regular breaks, and risk assessments. Access the full guide at Safe Work Australia. 

Office ergonomics: Practical tips

WorkSafe WA offers practical advice for setting up ergonomic offices, including adjusting chairs, desks, and monitors to suit individual needs. These tips help prevent discomfort and injury, supporting long-term health and productivity. Explore more at WorkSafe WA.

Training and professional assessment

Employers may choose external ergonomic trainers or auditors to assess the work environment and provide solutions. If your business has a GIO Workers Compensation Insurance policy, you can access discounted training courses through the National Safety Council of Australia Foundation (NSCA), which offers ergonomic training and resources.

GIO offers Workers Compensation Insurance for businesses in Western Australia, the Northern Territory, the ACT and Tasmania.

Training courses are available for GIO Workers Compensation Insurance customers to help organisations prevent workplace injuries and reduce associated claims costs.

Explore Workers Compensation Insurance

Read more:

• Managing mental health in the workplace
  
• The different types of business insurance
• Is insurance tax deductible?

In NSW, AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807 trading as GIO is an agent for the Workers Compensation Nominal Insurer ABN 83 564 379 108/003, also known as icare workers insurance. In WA, ACT, TAS & NT, insurance is issued by AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807 trading as GIO.