What is ergonomics?

Ergonomics is the scientific discipline that studies, designs, and adjusts the environment around us so that it works better for our bodies and minds.

Often focused on the physical elements of an environment, from furniture and equipment to layout, ergonomics aims to make sure these elements work seamlessly with humans, so that we can be comfortable, productive and healthy.

There are different types of ergonomics, covering every stage of an environment. These start with the design of a space and equipment used, going right through to the needs of different groups and changing established layouts to make spaces work better.

Of these stages, or types, of ergonomics, the ones that are particularly relevant to an office environment are:

Physical ergonomics

Physical ergonomics looks at the physical interaction between humans and their environment, considering what can be done to prevent injuries, increase productivity and quality of work.

By assessing a person’s posture, repetitive movements and body position when working with tools and equipment, we can get a better understanding of how individuals can achieve better physical ergonomics.

Employers can use this information to provide the furniture and equipment needed, such as height-adjustable desks and foot supports, to help to reduce the risk of injury and musculoskeletal disorders.

Cognitive ergonomics

Cognitive ergonomics helps to optimise systems and environments to reduce cognitive overload and make mental processes easier.

Mental processes studied in cognitive ergonomics include perception, memory, reasoning, and motor response. The aim is to reduce the cognitive effort needed to complete a task, reduce stress and promote concentration.

One example could be providing two monitor screens so that users can see all the information they need at once without needing to switch between windows on one screen.

Environmental ergonomics

Cognitive ergonomics helps to optimise systems and environments to reduce cognitive overload and make mental processes easier.

Mental processes studied in cognitive ergonomics include perception, memory, reasoning, and motor response. The aim is to reduce the cognitive effort needed to complete a task, reduce stress and promote concentration.

One example could be providing two monitor screens so that users can see all the information they need at once without needing to switch between windows on one screen.

Ergonomics for specific needs

Ergonomics for specific needs studies the design needs of people such as children or individuals with disabilities, making sure that the comfort and wellbeing of the environment is tailored to their specific needs, so they can work independently and effectively.

It’s important to understand that every person is different, and a one-size fits all approach isn’t suitable, which is why it’s so important to take measures to prevent these ergonomic related issues arising in the first place.

Preventative ergonomics

When thinking about the different types of ergonomics, it’s vital that we take a preventative approach. Preventative ergonomics looks at anticipating and preventing potential ergonomic issues before they appear, saving employees the pain of musculoskeletal injuries and employers the significant costs associated with short and long-term sickness.

This is achieved by ensuring that work environments are designed for good ergonomics. Employers should regularly assess workstations and use the insights gained to provide the right ergonomic equipment, as well as training on the correct use of equipment and proper posture.

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Corrective ergonomics

Corrective ergonomics describes a scenario where a problem already exists due to a lack of or failure of preventative ergonomics. In this case, immediate intervention is required to see how the workspace environment can be improved.

Where there are reports of discomfort or injuries, or a workplace is seeing high absence levels due to workplace-related ill health, corrective ergonomics assesses the workplace and advises on adjustments to resolve these problems.

Ergonomics and the Benefits to Employers

When all these areas of ergonomic practice are applied in the workplace, the benefits to employers are significant. The Health and Safety Executive has reported that 35.2 million days were lost due to work-related ill health in Great Britain in 2022-23. Of these, musculoskeletal disorders accounted for 6.6 million of those lost days and was the second highest cause after stress, depression or anxiety.

It's clear that by proactively engaging with their teams and providing the ergonomic equipment and training they need, employers can benefit from lower rates of absenteeism, increased morale and higher productivity.

Now you know what ergonomics is, it’s time to put it into action. Our top tips on how you improve your posture today, through best ergonomic practices, will leave you feeling stronger, healthier and happier.

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