Over the past three years, the traditional concept of the workplace has evolved across numerous industries. Along with what many are calling “The Great Resignation,” which left record numbers of job vacancies, employers are also finding that new and remaining workers are more focused than ever on optimal working conditions. And with labor shortages continuing, the possibility of losing productivity and seeing increased worker compensation claims due to injury — already unacceptable prior to the pandemic — can put companies at greater risk than ever before. This has caused many employers, including those both in office settings and those in supply chain settings such as warehouses and fulfillment centers, to reexamine their facilities and identify new ways to make them safer and more comfortable for workers. By increasing their attention on workplace ergonomics, companies can improve their odds of attracting and retaining a healthy and productive workforce.
What is Workplace Ergonomics
Workplace ergonomics involves efforts to reduce employee strain, stress, and injury by optimizing workplace design and arrangement. This is especially crucial as the supply chain continues to face disruptions. Having a workplace that is designed to help warehouse, fulfillment center, and other supply chain employees succeed can assist with faster delivery times, less error, and the smooth flow of the supply chain.
As an example, warehouse and fulfillment centers striving to enhance their workplace ergonomics may consider partnering with iGPS to manage all their pallet needs. Plastic pallets from iGPS are 30% lighter than traditional wood-block pallets and easier for a single worker to handle. Switching to iGPS pallets can reduce the risk of injury for employees while also making the workplace more efficient.
Creating a More Ergonomic Workplace
Companies looking to make their workplace more ergonomic may consider making key adjustments:
- Engage an ergonomics consultant: In-person and even virtual ergonomics assessment solutions can make big differences in office, manufacturing facility, fulfillment center, and retailer settings. Experts can advise companies and employees on tips for minimizing strain, avoiding repetitive-stress injuries, and reducing fatigue.
- Update the aesthetic and layout: By making a workplace more appealing, it not only creates a more enjoyable space for employees to spend their time, but also can make their jobs easier in some cases. If a workplace is set up to help an employee complete their job efficiently, it can lower their stress levels while also benefiting the business.
- Provide education and training opportunities: Ongoing employee education is vital to the success of any business. However, it can also benefit workplace ergonomics practices by showing employees more effective ways to work in ways that may minimize the possibility of stress and injury. This is especially important in work settings such as manufacturing facilities and warehouses, as proper and up-to-date training in imperative for employee safety.
- Promote work-life balance and employee health: As we emerge from the pandemic, studies have shown that employees value an acceptable work-life balance more highly than ever before. The ability to work remotely, in fields where it is possible, has become essential for many workers and highly desirable to others. Along these lines, promoting employee health and wellness has also risen in importance. Companies may consider providing healthy meals at lunchtime or providing compensation for gym memberships to boost worker fitness.
Organizations worldwide are working tirelessly to navigate the emergence from the pandemic, restore and retain their workforce, and overcome supply chain snarls. An increased focus on workplace ergonomics is among many essential steps to success.
Companies committed to improving their workplace ergonomics use iGPS plastic pallets for all their shipping needs. Our lightweight, recyclable plastic pallets are safer for your employees and lower your Total Cost of Business. For more information, contact us at 1-866-557-0047, email a specialist at switch@igps.net, or visit our contact page.
