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Photo: Exhibitor stand with ergonomic workstations at the A+A

Workplace ergonomics: More safety and health in the workplace

The right chair for your office

The importance of ergonomic workstations

An ergonomic workplace is much more than just a well-adjusted office chair - it is crucial for the health, well-being and performance of employees. Incorrect sitting postures, monotonous movement sequences or poorly adjusted work equipment can lead to long-term physical complaints such as back pain, tension or even chronic musculoskeletal disorders.

Ergonomics is a key topic at A+A, as ergonomic workstations enable healthy working. This not only has positive effects on physical health, but also increases productivity and general well-being.
The latter in particular is increasingly coming into focus, as motivated and healthy employees are more productive.

But ergonomics doesn't just affect employees - employers also benefit considerably. Well thought-out workplace design can reduce sickness-related absences while increasing motivation and job satisfaction. Many companies are already using innovative solutions such as height-adjustable desks or table bikes to integrate movement into everyday working life. This makes it clear that ergonomics is a decisive success factor for both sides - for employees and companies alike.
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Ergonomics in the workplace: guidelines

Designing a workplace that supports physical well-being is not only beneficial for employees but is often regulated by occupational health and safety standards. Many countries have established guidelines to ensure that working conditions promote health and prevent work-related strain. These regulations typically require employers to design workstations in a way that minimizes health risks and ensures workplace safety.
 
Ergonomic workplace design is often defined by national occupational health and safety laws, workplace regulations, and technical standards. These may include provisions for proper lighting, display screen equipment (DSE) workstations, and ergonomic office furniture. Specific requirements often cover aspects such as monitor positioning, keyboard and desk design, and adjustable seating to support good posture. Additionally, regulations frequently mandate the safe use of work equipment and require businesses to conduct regular risk assessments to identify and mitigate ergonomic hazards.
 
The A+A trade fair provide valuable opportunities for companies to stay informed about the latest regulatory changes and ergonomic innovations. Experts, professional organizations, and businesses present current developments and solutions to enhance workplace ergonomics, enabling companies to implement effective measures that support employee health and productivity.
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Ergonomic workplace - important principles for healthy working

Photo: Ergonomic workstation with height-adjustable desk

An ergonomically designed workplace is one of the most important measures for preventing health complaints and promoting productivity. Particularly in professions with long periods of screen time or physically one-sided strain, incorrect workstation design can cause long-term damage. This includes musculoskeletal disorders, tension, headaches and fatigue.

Ergonomics means adapting the workstation so that it meets the individual needs of the employee and supports their natural posture. Switching between different working positions, taking regular breaks to move and using optimal materials all play a key role in relieving the strain on the body.

Photo: Adapting a desk to ergonomic requirements

In addition to physical health, well-being also plays a crucial role. An ergonomic workplace can reduce stress, increase general energy levels and improve the ability to concentrate. Companies that invest in ergonomic workstations benefit from motivated employees, fewer absences due to illness and a better working atmosphere.

And how can companies implement this? The implementation of ergonomic measures begins with an analysis of existing workstations and targeted adaptation to the ergonomic needs of employees. This can be done through height-adjustable desks, ergonomic stools or the promotion of regular exercise. Training courses and workshops help to raise awareness of ergonomic working and establish healthy employing habits in the long term.

How to set up an ergonomic workstation correctly

A well-designed workplace makes a significant contribution to health and efficiency. Whether in the office or operating from home, the right equipment and arrangement of work equipment are crucial to reducing stress and promoting an ergonomic way of working.

The right desk and chair

A height-adjustable desk allows you to alternate between sitting and standing, which prevents back problems. The office chair should be customizable, with an adjustable backrest, seat height and armrests to support a healthy sitting position.

The optimum monitor position

The monitor should be positioned so that the top line of the screen is at eye level. The recommended distance is about one arm's length. An additional monitor stand or bracket can help to set the correct height and avoid neck strain.

Ergonomic input devices

The keyboard and mouse should be positioned so that the forearms rest relaxed on the table. Ergonomic keyboards and vertical mice support a natural hand posture and reduce the risk of tendonitis or carpal tunnel syndrome.

Lighting and room climate

Natural daylight is ideal for concentrated work. Alternatively, glare-free lighting should be used to avoid eye strain. The room climate also plays a role: a temperature between 20 and 22 degrees Celsius and a humidity of 40-60% are ideal for well-being and productivity.

Ergonomic aids for a healthy workplace

In addition to a well thought-out workplace design, there are numerous ergonomic aids that help to make everyday working life even healthier. They support better posture, promote activity and reduce strain - both in the office and when working from home.
Photo: Advice on the right office chair at the A+A trade fair
Photo: Innovative solutions for more movement in everyday office life
Height-adjustable desks and ergonomic chairs
Ergonomic seating aids such as balance cushions, sitting balls or flexible office chairs with movable seats promote an active sitting posture and strengthen the back muscles. Alternatively, standing aids and adjustable standing desks enable a more variable way of working that relieves the body.

Ergonomic peripherals
Laptop stands or monitor arms allow flexible adjustment of the screen height and prevent tension in the neck and shoulder area. Document holders help to position work materials at eye level to avoid unnecessary head movements.
Support for the legs and feet
If you sit for long periods of time, you should use a footrest to promote an ergonomic sitting position. Seat cushions or balance cushions activate the back muscles and improve posture. When standing, standing mats provide a soft surface that relieves pressure on the joints.

Encourage movement - deskbikes and sit-stand concepts
Innovative solutions such as desk bikes, sitting balls or rocking chairs bring more movement into everyday office life and prevent one-sided strain. Companies are increasingly relying on such concepts to increase the well-being and productivity of their employees.
The A+A trade fair offers an ideal opportunity to try out the latest ergonomic aids and find out about innovative solutions. Companies and professionals can find out which products are best suited to their working environment and which ergonomic trends have proven themselves in practice.

Checklist: Ergonomic workplace

Sitting posture & furniture

✔ Ergonomic chair with adjustable seat height, lumbar support and backrest
✔ Desk at the optimum height (approx. 72 cm or height-adjustable)
✔ Feet flat on the floor or on a footrest

Screen & input devices

✔ Monitor at eye level, approx. one arm's length away
✔ Anti-glare screen with optimum brightness
✔ Keyboard & mouse ergonomically aligned, forearms are relaxed on the table
✔ Wrist rests to support natural posture

Movement & posture

✔ Regularly alternate between sitting and standing (e.g. with a sit-stand table)
✔ Short movement breaks every 30-60 minutes
✔ Dynamic sitting: Keep changing your stance slightly
✔ Integrate neck and back exercises into your daily work routine

Lighting & room climate

✔ Use natural daylight, no reflections on the screen
✔ Additional workstation lighting if necessary (neutral white, glare-free)
✔ Room temperature between 20-22°C, humidity at 40-60%

This checklist helps to create a healthy and efficient workplace - whether in the office or at home!

Why You Shouldn’t Miss A+A

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