There is no “standard workspace” in today’s dynamic work environment, especially at UW-Madison. With more than 21,000 employees working in different locations, buildings, environments — and even in their own homes — there is no universal one-size-fits-all solution for every employee. So, how do employees create workspaces that effectively accommodate such diverse needs? Enter UW-Madison’s Ergonomics team — they’re here to lend a helping hand.
Ergonomics adjusts the job to the person, including modifying the task, workspace, environment, task performance methods, postural habits and equipment.
“We ultimately want folks to be comfortable, safe and well at work,” said Avelene Adler, Ergonomics Program Coordinator. “We spend a significant amount of time at work, and it’s important that we are in a space that maximizes our working comfort. People who are comfortable at work will be happier and more productive.”
The Ergonomics team does this through various services, including on-site assessments of employee workstations and training on how employees can customize their work to be more ergonomic.
One of the best solutions, however, is to make an appointment to stop by the Workplace Ergonomics Lab to get a customized assessment and fit them with equipment that enhances their health at work. Each appointment is individualized and considers a person’s specific needs, preferences, strengths, limitations and their work.
The Workplace Ergonomics Lab includes office equipment (task chairs, height-adjustable desks, keyboards, mouse options, footrests), lab equipment (pipettes, tips, microscope, glassware, adaptive tools), and more. Staff can try different equipment with proper fitting guidance and selection recommendations from licensed physical therapists and ergonomics professionals. They can also simulate work tasks to receive suggestions on improving posture, biomechanics, task performance, equipment and workspace layout.
By working with the Ergonomics team, employees can better understand what equipment will work best for them and develop a more concrete plan to improve their workstation.
“By setting up employees with a good layout and equipment that works for them, we can help reduce common straining postures and tasks, and in turn, reduce risk of injuries,” Avelene said. “We use objective measures and tools to assess ergonomic risks and use different controls to eliminate and reduce risks of musculoskeletal injuries.”
While it may seem like one ergonomics solution could work for everyone, this is not always the case. That’s why it is so crucial for the team to provide individual assessments. A common example is an ergonomic snow shovel with a curved handle. For some individuals, the curved handle will reduce strain while shoveling. For others, however, this design may increase discomfort.
“Something ergonomic for one person may be inadequate for another,” Avelene said. “We consider many elements and individual needs and provide customized recommendations on equipment and how to use it.”
A lot of work-related musculoskeletal injuries can be related to overexertion (like a very straining posture or heavy load) or repetitive motion activities. Much of this can be prevented. As people age and with prolonged exposures, their bodies may be unable to keep up with the repeated strains. Ergonomics is a proactive approach to being healthy at work.
“We spend a significant amount of time at work and it’s important that we are in a space that maximizes our working comfort,” Avelene said. “We are whole people, so we want people to be healthy and comfortable at work so they can also be healthy and enjoy life outside of work.”
A few years ago, Scott Winger with DoIT Technical Services, started experiencing frequent neck pain, which he initially attributed to a family condition. However, the pain persisted, and a doctor’s visit revealed it was not genetic. Seeking relief, Scott approached the Ergonomics team. Their assessment led to recommendations for equipment and posture changes, which significantly alleviated his pain.
“The problem was, to a large extent, caused by wrong furniture and my lack of ergonomics knowledge,” Scott said. “With my new chair, my modern desk, which allows me to turn my entire body instead of twisting my spine from the neck down when working, and my new habits, the intense pain is a thing of the past. Thanks, Ergonomics team!”
Employees can schedule an appointment at the Lab at 21 North Park Street on the Ergonomics website by clicking the “Request an Ergonomics Service” button.
From here, they can:
- Select the type of service needed.
- Provide measurements and pictures of the workstation
- Wait for the Ergonomics team to reach out to schedule an appointment
The team will meet with employees in their workspace, including offices, labs, vehicles, natural spaces, hallways or classrooms.
Employees can always email the team at ergonomics@fpm.wisc.edu if they have general questions.