It's important for all employers to stay up to date on current ergonomics research. Without the proper ergonomics information resources, you may be responsible for your employees' pain.

As people spend longer hours in front of their computers, proper posture is becoming increasingly important. Many people simply sit the way that they feel is most comfortable. Unfortunately, this is not always correct ergonomic posture. Employees need information on ergonomics so that they can prevent injuries.

Some ergonomics resources that you may want to provide your employees are:

1. A simple guide to ergonomics. This teaches employees how their posture affects their body. It should also show diagrams of the proper ways to sit while working.

2. The opportunity to speak with a professional. In addition to an ergonomics manual, employees can benefit from speaking with an ergonomics consultant. The consultant can adjust their posture to show them the correct way to sit.

3. A catalog where they can choose the ergonomic products that need. Different people find different styles of ergonomic goods more appealing. Let your employees choose the ergonomic accessories that are right for them.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Look to the government for information on ergonomics

You have certain responsibilities towards your employees and those include providing them with a safe working environment. This includes ergonomics. You can learn about government regulations and recommendations regarding ergonomics.

I recommend: The U.S. Department of Labor Office of Safety and Health Administration offers information on ergonomics to employers. You may be particularly interested in the voluntary guidelines and the enforcement plan. Employers should try to be proactive in addressing the ergonomic concerns of their employees.

Teach employees the importance of ergonomics with a guide to ergonomics

Your employees may be damaging their bodies without knowing it. Make sure that your provide enough ergonomics information resources that they feel confident that they understand the issues.

I recommend: HR World presents the Ultimate Guide to Workstation Ergonomics along with a number of helpful resources. In order to distribute current information on ergonomics research, sign up to receive The Ergonomics Report.

Subscribe to magazines for additional information on ergonomics

The field of ergonomics changes as we learn new things. When you have a magazine delivered to you monthly, you can easily stay on top of the latest industry news.

I recommend: Ergonomics is an excellent magazine that covers all areas of ergonomics. They cover worldwide news in the industry. You may also be interested in Ergonomics in Design: The Quarterly of Human Factors Applications, which also addresses ergonomic issues.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Ergonomics or human factors research shows that it's beneficial to take periodic breaks from your work. Some people need a small reminder of this, so they enjoy using a software program that you can set to go off at different times, encouraging the user to take a break.