Ergonomics&Design
Ergonomics &Design
Martin Atkinson, the Managing Director of PiMS Workspace, explains how office design enhances the behavior, comfort and productivity of the worker.
There is a lot more to creating an ergonomically designed
office environment than purchasing suitable furniture. Whilst chairs and desks are undoubtedly paramount, the design of a workstation’s surrounding environment also warrants close attention. Careful consideration should be given to workplace features such as those which promote movement and encourage safety through design. An ergonomic office should provide both protection and comfort, as well as boost positive behavior and enhance well-being. The following steps offer a foundation in developing an office environment that will maximize productivity whilst reducing discomfort.
Keep Moving When it comes to muscular fatigue and discomfort, posture change is critical and with the recent advances in technology, we have become more desk-bound than ever before. Today’s pace of life means fewer people take regular breaks and whilst more and more of us have lunch at our desks, the risks associated with fixed posture increase.
Break out spaces in the office can encourage the frequent change of position that is vital for your body. Moving from your desk allows for a change of muscular posture that will relive built up tension, provide nourishment for your spine and keep joints well lubricated. A break out space encourages such movement by providing a change of scenery or an alternative workspace to our desks. This versatile environment can pose as an area where casual or spontaneous meetings may occur, social gatherings develop or as an area where short breaks or lunches seem more appropriate. Break out spaces also promote psychological restoration, enhance internal communication and build team spirit, acting as a bridge to otherwise unrelated departments.
Go with the Flow A tidy well organised office environment also allows for a
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greater flow of movement and will improve the overall aesthetic of the office. Movement around the office can be enhanced by switching from a paper based filing system to one that is digitally stored freeing up the space that would be otherwise occupied by cumbersome filing cabinets.
A cramped and cluttered work area will also reduce the likelihood of posture change and will cause unnecessary strains to the body. Extra space can also be gained under, on and around desks by improving storage using desk solutions with multiple horizontal surfaces, document stands, and small
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