Working from home health and safety: Tips on how to achieve employee well-being

The modern workplace has changed significantly. Working from home has become an integral part, which offers flexibility and convenience, but at the same time also entails health problems for employees. Through hybrid work, several locations must be designed accordingly. Flexopus shows how this works and what needs to be considered.

What does ergonomics mean?

Ergonomics is the science of designing and furnishing workplaces for employees. It focuses on optimising the work environment to reduce physical stress, discomfort and the risk of injury. In the context of working from home, ergonomics is about creating a workplace that promotes comfort and efficiency while minimizing health risks. Ergonomic work is crucial to people's health for a number of reasons:

• Prevention of musculoskeletal disorders: The right ergonomics can help prevent musculoskeletal disorders such as back and neck pain and injuries caused by repetitive exertion. Poor sitting posture and incorrect sitting positions can lead to long-term tension and problems with the spine.
• Increased productivity: A well-designed desk with an optimal table height and the right keyboard and mouse position can increase productivity. When work equipment is ergonomically adapted, employees can concentrate better on their work.
• Mental wellbeing: Ergonomics also plays a role in mental health. A comfortable and well-organized workplace with a suitable backrest can make a significant contribution to reducing stress.

Healthy at work: challenges and solutions

Physical health while working from home

While companies such as Flexopus can ensure ergonomic working conditions in the office, remote work poses various challenges that can have an impact on the physical health of employees. Sitting in an unsuitable office chair for long periods of time and poor posture can lead to chronic back pain and discomfort. Staring at a screen for a long time can cause eye strain, headaches, and vision problems. Lower physical exercise due to the lack of commuting can weaken muscles and lead to an unfavorable posture.

Mental health while working from home

In addition to these physical problems, you can also suffer from psychological stress , such as isolation, loneliness, or stress. The lack of personal communication with colleagues can affect overall well-being and job satisfaction. Blurring the lines between work and private life can lead to increased stress and tension.

Measures to improve health while working from home

Workplace design

In order to improve ergonomic workplace design in person and in the home office, it is important to take a holistic approach.

• Choosing the right work equipment: Invest in ergonomic furniture, an adjustable chair with backrest, and an ergonomic keyboard and mouse to create a healthy work environment. Since the changeover, many employers have been hiring hybrid work equipment.
• Optimum sitting position: Set up your desk so that your screen is at eye level, your feet are flat on the floor, and your forearms form a 90-degree angle as you type.

Breaks and movement promotion

• Regular breaks: Take short breaks to stretch and loosen your muscles to prevent tension and back problems.
• Exercise routine: Incorporate daily physical activities, such as stretching, yoga, or workouts, to promote spinal health.

Screen time and eye health

• 20-20-20 rule: Take a 20-second break every 20 minutes and look at something about 20 meters away.
• Proper lighting: Make sure your workplace is properly lit to avoid blinding light.

What should you avoid?

• Improvisation at work: Don't work on the couch or at the kitchen table, but at an ergonomically designed desk.
• Lack of exercise: A trip to the refrigerator does not replace active movement.
• Seated meetings: Hold meetings while standing to improve posture.

Promoting mental health in the workplace

• Social interactions: Schedule virtual meetings to avoid isolation
• Stress management: Use techniques such as meditation or mindfulness to reduce stress.

How can employers support employee health?

• Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Employers can offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to provide mental health support and resources to remote workers. EAP is an intervention program that helps employees address personal issues that can impact their professional performance.
• Regular check-ups: Health care can contribute to productivity and job satisfaction in the long term.

Conclusion: How to stay healthy working from home

Although working from home offers numerous advantages, it also poses significant challenges for the health of employees. As home office ergonomics are critical, both individuals and employers should take proactive measures to create a workplace that focuses on physical and mental wellbeing.

Ergonomic workplace design, breaks and exercise are essential to reduce health burdens. Employers can also support their employees through measures and programs to create healthy working conditions in the long term. In this way, sustainable health promotion and thus adequate work and performance are ensured.