Workplace Ergonomics Makes A Comeback

Attention to workplace ergonomics has fallen to the wayside for many businesses, brought down by a global recession and the repeal of ergonomic legislation in the US. But with expectations of a more activist OSHA under the Obama administration and a current debate on a proposed workplace safety rule, some enterprises have begun reevaluating how they support workplace ergonomics. More than ever, iWorkers today are tethered to workstations and mobile devices. Though many have gained flexibility in where they work and what tools they use, they continue to risk repetitive stress and eye strain injuries. Along with preparing for regulatory changes, organizations that address ergonomics in the Information Workplace stand to improve worker health while minimizing risk of potential insurance claims, compensation, medical and administrative costs, and indirect costs of lost productivity.