Ergonomics in the Workplace

Poor workplace ergonomics cost UK employers an estimated £8 billion per year through absenteeism, reduced productivity, and musculoskeletal disorders. The good news is that relatively modest investments in ergonomic furniture and workplace adjustments can yield significant returns in employee wellbeing and output.

What is Workplace Ergonomics?

Ergonomics is the science of designing and arranging workplaces, products, and systems so that they fit the people who use them. Applied to the office environment, ergonomics focuses on reducing physical strain, preventing injury, and optimising comfort and efficiency. Under UK law, the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 require employers to assess workstation risks for DSE users and take steps to reduce identified hazards.

Key Principles of an Ergonomic Workstation

A well-designed ergonomic workstation begins with the chair. Your spine should maintain its natural S-curve, supported by an adjustable lumbar backrest. Your feet should be flat on the floor (or a footrest), your knees at 90 degrees, and your hips level or slightly higher than your knees.

Your monitor should be positioned at arm's length, with the top of the screen at or just below eye level. This prevents the forward head posture that causes neck and upper back tension. If you use a laptop, an external monitor or laptop stand combined with an external keyboard is strongly recommended.

The Cost of Ignoring Ergonomics

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) account for approximately 30% of all work-related illness in the UK, according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Common conditions include lower back pain, repetitive strain injury (RSI), and neck and shoulder disorders. Beyond the human cost, the financial impact is substantial — each case of work-related MSD results in an average of 14.9 days of work absence.

Standing Desks and Movement Breaks

Prolonged sitting, even in the best ergonomic chair, is associated with increased health risks. The NHS recommends breaking up long periods of sitting at least every 30 minutes. Standing desks, which allow users to alternate between sitting and standing, are an increasingly popular solution. Combined with a quality ergonomic chair, a sit-stand desk represents the gold standard in modern workstation design.

Lighting and Environmental Factors

Glare on screens and inadequate lighting contribute to eye strain and headaches, which in turn cause users to adopt poor postures. Ensure workstations are positioned to avoid direct glare from windows or overhead lighting. Task lighting that can be adjusted independently of overhead lighting is particularly effective.

MONTONE's Workplace Ergonomics Assessment Service

Our team of ergonomics specialists can conduct a full workstation assessment for your office, whether you have 5 employees or 500. We will identify risk factors, recommend appropriate seating and equipment, and provide a written report compliant with DSE Regulations. Contact us to arrange an assessment.