If sitting is the new smoking, some construction companies may need to take a loot at their in-office ergonomics.

The construction industry places heavy emphasis on workplace safety, especially in worksites. However, the risk of physical injuries is also prevalent in office settings. Estimators, project managers, designers and executives can still be subject to soft tissue injuries with improper work setup. Ergonomics is critical in preventing these physical problems.

Here is a deep dive into how ergonomics can protect employee safety and health and enhance business productivity.

The Anatomy of an Office Injury

Around 1.71 billion people have musculoskeletal disorders, such as lower back pain, neck pain, fractures, osteoarthritis, amputation and other injuries. These might be brought about by repetitive motion, sustained static postures and poor workstation design, all of which are prevalent in office setups.

One of the most common progressive musculoskeletal disorders among office workers is carpal tunnel syndrome, which is caused by prolonged mouse clicking, extensive keyboard use, gripping a stylus and navigating building information modeling programs. Its symptoms include numbness and tingling in the fingers, along with a weakened grip. Tendonitis and tenosynovitis are inflammatory conditions caused by awkward joint positions due to unsupported wrists. These conditions result in localized pain and reduced range of motion.

Cervical spondylosis refers to neck strain and cervical spine deterioration due to poor screen-viewing posture. It results in headaches and chronic pain and stiffness in the neck and shoulders. Lumbar strain and degeneration result from prolonged sitting without adequate lower back support, forcing the spine into an unnatural curved shape. If not properly addressed, this can develop into chronic pain.

Why Office Ergonomics Is More Urgent Than Ever

Construction management is known for high-pressure bid deadlines, multimillion-dollar budgets and on-site conflict resolution leading to long, uninterrupted work sessions. Employees may spend a lot of time analyzing 2D and 3D models, estimating costs over complex spreadsheets or reviewing lengthy contracts. These stressors can lead professionals to build tension in their shoulders and skip necessary breaks. Poor workstation ergonomics can also lead to bad posture.

As the industry pursues more rigorous on-site safety protocols, the company’s office counterparts need the same protection against developing debilitating injuries. In fact, as much as 73% of Gen Z employees seek flexibility in their work arrangements. More people are seeking workplaces that value their overall health and provide an environment conducive to productive and highly analytical work. In response, the construction industry is adopting flexible schedules and more comfortable workspaces.

Downplaying employees’ needs can lead to losing out on talent that can carry the company forward. Firms that invest and commit to their employees serve as a powerful differentiator in a competitive labor market.

Actionable Solutions for the Construction Office

One of the most common reasons employees miss work is job-related musculoskeletal disorders. Therefore, companies should improve office ergonomics to avoid losses from absenteeism. The investment is worth it to establish a workplace that ensures the safety of both on-site and office employees. It effectively reduces absences, avoids compensation complaints and boosts morale. Moreover, this prioritization for worker safety attracts highly skilled professionals.

Here are the essentials for an ergonomic workplace.

1. Adjustable Chair

A proper ergonomic chair should be adjustable, with dynamic lumbar support that fits the natural curve of people’s lower backs. Adjustments can be made to its height so the feet can rest on the floor and to its armrests so the shoulders can stay relaxed while working.

2. Monitor Placement

Monitors should always be placed in front of the user, with the top of the screen at eye level. This position promotes a neutral neck posture. Another consideration is to keep the screen at arm’s length from the body. When work requires dual monitors, place them next to each other to avoid head turning.

3. Keyboards, Mouse and Lighting

Peripherals can also significantly improve worker posture. For example, split-design keyboards allow a more natural hand, wrist and forearm posture, preventing the inward twists and strains common in regular keyboards. A vertical mouse maintains proper hand posture and prevents carpal tunnel compression.

Even simply ensuring a well-lit office can significantly boost productivity and mood. After all, comfortable vision is important for office workers who spend several hours in front of their computers.

Cultivating an Ergonomic Culture

Besides office equipment, a supportive company culture is important in ensuring proper ergonomics. Office workers need to integrate movement and microbreaks throughout their day, as the human body is not designed for hours-long static positions.

1. The 20-20-20 Rule and Microbreaks

Educating employees to take their eyes off the screen every 20 minutes and look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds is important to reduce eye fatigue. One- to two-minute microbreaks to stand, stretch and move around are also recommended.

2. Movement and Postural Variation

The office layout should be conducive to a healthy workday. Standing desks give employees the option to change their posture throughout the day. Even placing amenities, such as printers and water coolers, in another room encourages employees to move throughout the day.

3. Leadership and Training

Professionals in the construction industry have high-stakes and intensive work. Moreover, the industry emphasizes physical resilience. Office-based physical complaints may be ignored since companies focus on on-site worker safety. Proper leadership can prevent minor injuries from snowballing into severe conditions.

Top management support is important for ergonomics to solidify in the company culture. Leaders can shape a healthy workplace by approving ergonomic equipment and leading by example by taking breaks. Recurring training sessions can empower employees to make small changes and adjustments to their workstations.

Building a Resilient Workforce From the Inside Out

The construction industry needs to place equal importance on workplace safety for both on-location and office sites. Many musculoskeletal injuries are preventable with proper equipment and posture. By proactively addressing these issues, the business can prevent losses related to absences, missed talent and project continuity.

The first step companies can take is to assess the current ergonomics. After that, leaders can provide equipment and support for a healthier and more productive office construction team.

SEE ALSO: ADVANCED TOOL ERGONOMICS: A MAJOR WORKPLACE SAFETY ADVANTAGE