Workplace Ergonomics and Your Bottom-line

Ergonomics is considered a collection of equipment, tools, and best practices designed to make the workplace safer. Often undervalued, the impact of ergonomics is reflected through a decrease in the number of workers’ compensation claims and the total costs of these claims.  To give you an idea of the savings capacity, a healthcare organization in Missouri saved around $150,000 in workers’ compensation costs after implementing ergonomic tools and practices.

The right mix of practice, design, and tools will vary by company.  However, the savings in workers compensation claims will be significant.  Workers compensation injuries for body parts such as the back, neck, and knees on average can range from $500 (without surgery) to $50,000 (with surgery).  And, these figures do not include costs of settlement and attorney fees for workers who are unable to come back to work. Costs are driven by workers’ entitlement to compensation benefits for at least 1 week with out surgery and at least 6 weeks with surgery.

Aside from the claim itself, other direct costs can be seen in the overtime pay needed for others to pick up the slack and the costs associated with hiring new employees. The hard numbers are the easiest to point out, but there are indirect costs, such as loss of productivity and morale, that should also be mentioned.

There are usually three main areas for incorporating ergonomics. Ergonomic practices include incorporating proper lifting techniques, stretching techniques, and encouraging good posture.  Ergonomic design involves organizing the workspace to promote natural flow and ease of movement.  Ergonomic tools, such as back supports, seek to relieve the stress put on a body while performing repetitive tasks overtime.  Together these tools prevent injuries and reduce conditions caused by repetitive strains and motions.  More companies are realizing the benefits of ergonomics and you should too.