How Critical is a Good Ergonomic Workstation?
Introduction
Do you experience recurring back problems, itchy dry eyes, and/or numbness, pain or tingling in upper body parts including wrists, elbows and neck? Do you work long hours glued to your workstation without taking breaks? Chances are you are a part of the 7% American population suffering from repetitive stress injury (RSI), carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and/ or musculoskeletal disorders (MSD’s) caused by excessive use of poorly designed products. According to studies conducted by National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), these conditions constitute almost 19% of hospital stays and 14% visits to a doctor’s office.
Not only do these occupational medical conditions affect the workforce, they also cost employers billions of dollars towards compensation claims, hidden expenses, productivity loss, employee attrition, surgery, medical treatment and litigation. According to National Council of Compensation Insurance, average compensation for CTS amounts to $33,000 per patient and these costs are escalating with each passing year. More
November 13th, 2007 at 1:48 pm
Does anyone know how I may be able to go about changing my own work station if the company I work for will not do it? I am willing to spend my own money, but my place of work is opposed to this- is there anyone who has gotten around a similar situation?
Thanks!
December 6th, 2007 at 5:39 pm
Talk to the Employee Health & Safety Director about chaning your station. If he/she will not authorize it, you might just get some of the necessities on your own.