Do you ever feel uncomfortable at work? Is it a regular occurrence? If you do (and even if you don’t), you should see an ergonomist. A doctor will be able to tell you what’s wrong and suggest treatment, but an ergonomist will get to the root of the issue.
Healthcare providers diagnose and treat; ergonomists assess you and your workplace.
There are five main reasons to get an ergonomic assessment:
1. An ergonomist is going to observe you working.
Most healthcare providers won’t see your workstation or workplace actions. Your discomfort might be coming from something you’ve never thought of. Ergonomists are experts in workplace setup – we know what the consequences of poor and static postures are.
2. An ergonomist identifies and corrects problematic workplace setup and job practices.
Just because you feel fine now, doesn’t mean you are safe. Work-related musculoskeletal injuries can take years to develop, or they can happen in a heartbeat. After hearing your symptoms, doctors might recommend postural changes at work, but they are doing so without seeing how you inhabit and move about your workplace. Furthermore, most medical professionals are not experts in workplace environments, equipment, furniture, and tasks – ergonomists are.
3. You’ll be more healthy and comfortable.
The ergonomist’s main goal is to prevent injury and discomfort. With the right setup and job design, you’ll be healthier, happier, and more comfortable at work, now and into the future. If you are facing discomfort at work, no matter how minor, you are at risk of developing a musculoskeletal injury. While you are waiting for your assessment, JasonL has a great list of tips to help you get the most out of your workstation!
4. You’ll be more productive.
If you are more comfortable at work, even if this is because an ergonomist recommended taking more breaks, you will be more productive. When it comes to work, more is often less. Working long hours without breaks or in uncomfortable positions will slow you down overall. The cost of an ergonomic assessment is easily made back in boosted productivity.
5. There’s no reason not to.
You can get an ergonomic assessment anywhere. EWI Works now offers remote ergonomic assessments with our app ErgoConnect. It’s quick, affordable, and easy. If you prefer an in-person or office-wide assessment, visit our services page. Don’t work near us? No problem, Google won’t let you down. And, in the meantime, you can check out our resources for free tips on staying healthy at work!
Now, don’t think we’re saying you shouldn’t see the doctor – you always should, if you are in discomfort or pain, even if you see an ergonomist, too. Doctors and ergonomists have different jobs; we prevent injuries, doctors cure them.
EWI Works offers many services that can improve your quality of life and health at work. Find out more about our Online Training, Services, and Resources.
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