Millions of employees spend most of their day at desks, on factory floors, or in warehouses. While these work environments may not seem dangerous compared to construction sites or heavy industrial jobs, office and repetitive tasks can cause injuries over time. Poor posture, improper workstation setups, and repetitive movements can lead to painful conditions that interfere with both work and daily life.
This raises an important question for workers and employers: how do ergonomic workspaces help prevent on-the-job injuries? Ergonomics is the science of designing a workspace to fit the worker, rather than forcing the worker to adapt to the environment. When workplaces invest in ergonomics, they reduce the risk of repetitive stress injuries, improve employee comfort, and may even lower workers’ compensation claims.
In this article, we’ll explore the role of ergonomics in preventing workplace injuries, the types of injuries that ergonomic setups can reduce, the legal implications for employers, and how injured employees may still need to pursue workers’ comp benefits with the help of a workers’ compensation lawyer.
What Is Ergonomics?
Ergonomics is the study of how people interact with their work environment and how to design tasks, tools, and workstations to fit the worker. The goal of an ergonomic workspace is to minimize strain, reduce fatigue, and prevent injuries. This can include everything from the height of a desk and the position of a computer monitor to the design of hand tools used on an assembly line.
Common Workplace Injuries Linked to Poor Ergonomics
Without an ergonomic workspace, employees may be at higher risk for conditions such as:
- Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSIs): Injuries caused by repeated movements over time, such as typing or using a mouse.
- Repetitive Strain Injuries: A broad category that includes carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, and bursitis.
- Back and Neck Pain: Poor chair support or monitor placement can lead to chronic musculoskeletal problems.
- Shoulder and Arm Strain: Often caused by reaching overhead or working at awkward angles.
- Leg and Circulation Issues: Sitting for long periods without proper posture or breaks can affect circulation and cause pain.
These injuries develop gradually and may not be noticeable until they become severe enough to require medical treatment and time away from work.
Examples of Ergonomic Workspaces
Employers can create safer environments by implementing ergonomic solutions such as:
- Adjustable Chairs and Desks: Allow workers to sit or stand with proper posture.
- Monitor Placement: Screens should be at eye level to prevent neck strain.
- Keyboard and Mouse Setup: Ergonomic keyboards and wrist supports can reduce strain on hands and wrists.
- Proper Lighting: Reduces eye strain and helps employees maintain a natural posture.
- Break Schedules: Encouraging employees to take short breaks reduces fatigue and improves circulation.
- Specialized Tools: In warehouses or factories, ergonomic lifting equipment and tools minimize the risk of overexertion.
By focusing on these adjustments, businesses can significantly reduce repetitive stress injuries and other workplace health issues.
How Ergonomics Helps Reduce Workers’ Comp Claims
Work-related injuries are one of the leading reasons employees file for workers’ compensation benefits. Employers who fail to provide ergonomic workspaces may face more workers’ comp claims for repetitive stress injuries and musculoskeletal disorders.
On the other hand, workplaces that invest in ergonomics often see fewer injuries, less absenteeism, and lower insurance costs. Employees benefit as well, with better long-term health and improved job satisfaction.
Legal Responsibilities of Employers
While there are no universal federal laws that require all businesses to provide ergonomic workspaces, employers are still responsible for providing safe working environments under the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA). OSHA has issued guidance on preventing repetitive stress injuries and may investigate if unsafe conditions lead to worker harm.
Additionally, some states have specific workplace safety requirements related to ergonomics. Employers who ignore these responsibilities may face liability if their negligence contributes to employee injuries.
Workers’ Compensation for Ergonomic-Related Injuries
Even in businesses with strong ergonomic practices, employees can still suffer repetitive strain injuries or other workplace-related conditions. When this happens, workers’ comp benefits can cover:
- Medical treatment
- Lost wages from missed work
- Rehabilitation or physical therapy
- Long-term disability if the injury is severe
However, insurance companies sometimes dispute claims involving repetitive stress injuries, arguing that they are caused by non-work activities. This is where having an experienced workers’ compensation attorney becomes important.
How a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Can Help
If you’ve developed a repetitive strain injury or other ergonomic-related condition at work, a workers’ comp lawyer can:
- Help you file a complete and accurate workers’ compensation claim
- Collect medical records to prove your injury is work-related
- Challenge denied claims or reduced benefits
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
- Represent you at hearings if your case goes before a workers’ compensation board
By working with a skilled workers’ compensation attorney, employees can ensure their rights are protected and maximize the benefits they receive.
Steps Employees Can Take to Protect Themselves
If you are concerned about your workspace, here are some steps to reduce your risk of injury:
- Report Unsafe Conditions: Inform your employer if your workstation causes discomfort or pain.
- Request Adjustments: Ask for ergonomic chairs, keyboards, or tools where possible.
- Take Breaks: Short breaks for stretching and movement reduce fatigue and strain.
- Use Proper Posture: Keep your back supported, feet flat on the floor, and monitor at eye level.
- Seek Medical Advice: If pain develops, see a doctor before the condition worsens.
Call Brandon J. Broderick For Legal Help
If you’ve suffered a repetitive stress injury or other work-related injury caused by poor ergonomics, you may be entitled to workers’ comp benefits. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys are committed to helping injured workers get the benefits they deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can help protect your future.