IMPROVE PRODUCTIVITY
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THE HIDDEN IMPACT ON PERFORMANCE AND CULTURE Beyond the headline figures, poor ergonomics has a ripple effect across organisations. Employees working in discomfort are less productive, less engaged, and more likely to take time off. The research shows that 36% of workers have taken absence due to workstation-related pain, while 26% say discomfort negatively affects their mood. Over time, this can influence everything from team morale to staff retention. In a competitive employment market, workplace experience matters more than ever. Businesses that fail to provide comfortable, supportive environments risk losing talent and replacing employees can cost up to 150% of their salary when factoring in recruitment and lost productivity. There is also a compliance dimension to consider. Despite clear regulations around Display Screen Equipment (DSE), 73% of businesses are not conducting regular workstation assessments, leaving both employees and employers exposed to unnecessary risk. WHY ACTION IS OFTEN DELAYED One of the most revealing insights from the whitepaper is the gap between awareness and action. While many employees recognise they would benefit from ergonomic improvements, businesses are often slow to respond. In some cases, ergonomics is still viewed as a “nice to have” rather than a strategic priority. In others, there is simply a lack of knowledge around what good looks like - or how to implement effective solutions across increasingly hybrid workforces. However, the data suggests this mindset needs to change. Two-thirds of employees report feeling healthier, more motivated, and more productive when provided with the right ergonomic support. A PRACTICAL PATH FORWARD Encouragingly, the solution is neither complex nor out of reach. The research outlines a clear framework for businesses to follow: assess risks, invest in education, implement appropriate equipment, and continually review and adapt workspaces. Simple changes - such as improving screen positioning, introducing sit-stand desks, adding back and wrist support, and encouraging regular movement - can have a significant impact. Just as importantly, ensuring employees understand how to use equipment correctly is key to long-term success. This is about creating a “posture-first” culture, where wellbeing and productivity go hand in hand. TURNING INSIGHT INTO ACTION For buyers of workplace products, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The challenge is to move beyond transactional purchasing and think more strategically about the role of the workplace in supporting people and performance. If your organisation hasn’t reviewed its approach recently, now is the time. And with the right support in place, creating a healthier, more productive workplace is far more achievable than many realise.
“WHILE MANY EMPLOYEES RECOGNISE THEY WOULD BENEFIT FROM ERGONOMIC IMPROVEMENTS, BUSINESSES ARE OFTEN SLOW TO RESPOND”
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