Ergonomics and postural wellbeing in work spaces

An approach designed to optimize the relationship between human beings and their working environment, with a view to health, comfort and productivity

In recent years, the notion of ergonomics has become a crucial aspect of workspace design. In today’s context of massive use of digital devices and prolonged hours spent at the desk, this has become a major issue, affecting both our physical and mental health.

Ergonomics is the design of tools, furniture and environments according to the needs of the human body, reducing the risk of injury and promoting comfort during a working day

In workplaces, proper posture not only prevents temporary inconveniences such as fatigue or back pain, but has a lasting impact on an individual’s overall health and well-being.

Companies are starting to realize that adopting ergonomic solutions can not only improve employees’ quality of life, but also increase productivity by reducing the number of days lost due to illness or injury. According to recent studies, musculoskeletal disorders, such as those involving back, neck and shoulders, are among the most common causes of sick leave. Preventing these conditions requires the implementation of workstations and tools designed around fundamental ergonomic principles:

• Neutral posture. A position in which our body is aligned and balanced, minimizing stress on joints and muscles. In workstations, this means keeping a straight spine, with feet flat on the floor and knees at right angles.
• Periodic movement. Experts recommend getting up and moving at least every 30 minutes, performing stretching exercises to keep muscles active and prevent stiffness. In fact, the concept of ‘dynamic ergonomics promotes the idea that movement is essential for physical well-being.
• Proper support. An ergonomic chair is one of the most important allies for correct posture. A good seat should provide lumbar support, be adjustable in height and depth, and allow freedom of movement. Its adaptability to different heights and builds is essential, so that the workstation can be fully customized. Another milestone change was the introduction of height-adjustable desks, which allow people to switch from sitting to standing during the day. Both solutions promote higher postural flexibility, reducing the risks associated with sedentariness.
• Weight distribution and foot comfort. Using a footrest, especially for people of smaller stature, helps maintain a correct posture, reducing stress on legs and back. In addition, an anti-fatigue floor or mat can be useful for those who spend a lot of time standing, for example in laboratories or shops.
• Proper lighting. Light plays a key role in ergonomic well-being. Natural lighting is always to be preferred, but when not available, it is vital to provide artificial light that reduces eye fatigue. Screens should be reflection-free and brightness should be dimmed according to environmental conditions. Poor lighting can cause eye strain, which has a negative impact on overall posture.
• Acoustic comfort. An excessively noisy ambience or poor sound management can severely reduce attention span, increase stress and, in the long run, negatively affect mental health. Constant background noise or sudden peaks can induce cognitive fatigue and decrease efficiency in attention-demanding tasks.

As mentioned earlier in this piece, technological innovation has also significantly contributed to transforming workspaces, but it has also brought new challenges from an ergonomic point of view. Since the entry of laptops, tablets and smartphones, people have been working in a wider range of contexts, but often in positions that do not comply with the principles outlined above.

Whenever possible, experts recommend using laptops with docking stations and external monitors to avoid improper posture. Also, the use of ergonomically designed external keyboard and mouse can make a substantial difference. Wireless tools offer greater flexibility and allow for better tailoring of the workstation.

Good posture as well as the optimal use of ergonomic furniture ultimately requires awareness and training. Albeit the availability of advanced tools, it is still essential that employees are regularly trained on the correct use of chairs, desks and other devices. Therefore, it is advisable to actively promote ergonomic education programmes, making workers aware of the importance of movement and changing position during the working day.

On a final note, it is worth emphasizing how ergonomics and postural wellbeing not only concern the physical side, but also have a direct influence on mental wellbeing

A dysfunctional or uncomfortable workstation can cause anxiety and reduced concentration.

By contrast, an ergonomically optimized environment promotes a general sense of well-being, which translates into higher productivity and reduced burnout levels. This is why the contemporary workspace must be conceived as a place where body and mind can work in harmony. Well-being-oriented design is not just about chairs and desks, but also involves stress management, privacy and social connection.