Rock your body right - on and off work
30.5.2024Have you ever considered how your work environment and postures impact your free time? After all, we have just one body, whether on or off work.
If our bodies feel good at work, we have the energy and ability to enjoy our free time activities too
The benefits of ergonomic working conditions
Ergonomic working conditions create the foundation for good performance at work, improving productivity and well-being of employees. However, the benefits of work ergonomics extend far beyond the workplace.
If our bodies feel good at work, we have the energy and ability to enjoy our free time activities too, whether it is playing Guitar Hero and headbanging, practicing yoga, or simply playing with our kids.
Energy for life: work ergonomics and leisure activities
“We shouldn’t feel exhausted and worn out after a workday. Instead, we should be able to continue our day’s activities with enthusiasm and energy,” comments Jonna Patama, Treston's Group Product Manager and company Ergonomist.
Work ergonomics significantly impact our success at work but also our quality of life during leisure time. Conversely, our free time activities affect our work capabilities. Free time should recharge our batteries and provide us with energy that benefits and enhances our work performance.
Having sickness absences is, of course, a significant burden on companies and society as a whole, but they are also personal tragedies for those affected.
Perspective on musculoskeletal disorders
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) accounted for 25% of all nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses in 2020. They also accounted for 13% of all lost workdays due to injury or illness. MSDs account for a significant portion of workers' compensation claims and result in substantial lost work time and productivity losses. According to the National Safety Council, the average cost of a work-related injury leave in the US is $1,685 per day. This includes the cost of wage losses, medical expenses, administrative expenses, and employer costs.
Having sickness absences is, of course, a significant burden on companies and society as a whole, but they are also personal tragedies for those affected. Maybe a person cannot enjoy playing with their grandchildren, walking their dogs, or engaging in their favorite sports.
One body, on and off work
“We have one body on and off work, and it would be a shame not to recognize how paying attention to work ergonomics can profoundly impact our entire life, not just our work life,” says Patama. “People truly appreciate feeling energetic after a full workday, and this message has resonated strongly with those performing manual work”, she continues.
Campaign videos tell the message in very visual way:
For a quick and easy assessment of your workstation's ergonomic risk level, try Treston ErgoID™! From a single work flow assessment performed virtually, to a complete on-site analysis, we can help you reduce your risk of MSDs and better your health, on and off work.