IS ERGONOMICS EXPENSIVE?
First of all, ergonomics is not a PRODUCT. It is a process of matching furniture (including workstation, equipment, and environment) to the workers and their worktasks to reduce the hazards, injury and discomfort without undermining productivity. Although as many people believe that buying ergonomic furniture is costly, this is certainly not true considering globalization. With a little effort and preparation (and expertise of your furniture provider!), you can make a wise investment that will pay back health dividends in the future.
WHAT ARE THE HAZARDSOF INJURY AND DISCOMFORT?
Besides accidents that may occur, the most common malady are repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) which is the general term for disorders that occur from prolonged, repetitious use of the hands which results in pain, burning, swelling, tingling, numbness, loss of dexterity and weakness. These can occur on the wrist (carpal tunnel syndrome), back and neck pain.
WHAT SHOULD YOU KNOW ABOUT THE WORKERS
WHO WILL BE USING OFFICE FURNITURE?
People come in all shapes and sizes so you need to take these physical characteristics into account whenever you purchase. Furniture and Industrial designers are often taught to utilize the "5th-95th" percentile rule which seeks to accomodate not just a majority but most of the population. Unless your subject belongs to any of the extremes (upper and lower 5th percentile), there is a good chance that his or her body size is suitable for the furniture purchased.
WHAT SHOULD YOU KNOW ABOUT THE JOB WHERE FURNITURE WILL BE PLACED?
Space planners often ask what type of work and position the furniture will be utilized for. Since different office tasks would require different equipment and accesories, each task would likely require a different furniture configuration. a person in the sales would likely require less storage space than say, one from the accounting department. Understanding the basics of the work carried out helps one to understand more clearly hat the workers need in order to make their job better "ergonomically'.
IN ADDITION, VARIOUS CONSTRAINTS MUST BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT SUCH AS:
*Available space and office dimensions
a. columns, walls, doorways must always be reflected
b. there must be adequate aisle space
*Layout or arrangement of existing furntiture.
*Light sources, specifically taks lamps-undercabinet lighting
is recommended especially during night time
A. TYPE AND SIZE OF COMPUTERS TO BE USED
1. Due to proliferation of laptops,desk sizes are often reduced significantly.
2. Furthermore, whether or not these computers are floor or
table mounted will also determine the desk sizes.
B. INTERACTION WITH CO-WORKERS AND VISITORS
1. Are impromptu meetings taking place?
2. Are their separate or integrated visitor areas?
Answers to these will often determine whether freestanding desks or
workstations with panels are best suited.
WHAT SHOULD YOU FOCUS ON HEN SELECTING OFFICE FURNITURE?
Having made the initial assesment, you may start looking for a suitable purchase.
We suggest that you focus your attention on:
*A fully adjustable chair with height-adjustable armrests.
*An adjustable desk is preferable
*A footrest is highly recommended if you decide on a non-adjustable desk
*Accesories, such as a copyholder, mouse, task lamps, etc.
(discuss these ith the staff and get their feedback as personal
preferences are very important).
WHAT IS YOUR NEXT STEP AFTER SELECTING SUITABLE OFFICE PRODUCTS?
Do not assume that your job is done once you have found suitable products. Before you make a final decision, you should give your staff the opportunity to test them. Remember that people accept change with differing degrees of ease. Therefore, having the staff actively involved in the decision-making process is very important for the selection of the furniture and equipment that is suited to them and their work tasks. Interactive training on how to use, adjust, and readjust new equipment is also crucial for the succesful introduction of new office equipment and furniture into the workplace. Keep in mind that the supplier's claim that his products are "ergonomically" correct is no guarantee of comfort. Arming yourself with valid information from reliable sources will help you make the right investment that will benefit an employer and employees equally.
FOY YOUR OFFICE SYSTEMS AND FURNITURE NEEDS,
and OFFICE ACCESORIES AND SUPPLIES
EMAIL marbuis@cubixoffice.com
TELEFAX: 546-7869
or visit CubixOffice Inc. Unit 101 Greenrich Mansion,
'Pearl drive corner Lourdes St. Ortigas Center
Pasig City, Philippines
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