Ergonomics and the Modern Workspace: Supporting Employees Wherever They Work

Remote and hybrid work are now a normal part of today’s workplace. Whether employees are at home, in the office, or somewhere in between, it’s important to make sure they are working as safely and comfortably as possible. One key factor in supporting employee well-being is ergonomics.

What is ergonomics?

Simply put, ergonomics is the science of adapting the work to fit the worker. This includes considering:

• The different shapes, sizes and needs of employees
• Any equipment they need to do their job
• Where they do their work and the overall workspace environment
• Their work schedules

When a workspace is designed with ergonomics in mind, it creates a comfortable and efficient environment that balances human abilities and limitations. The result? Ensuring your employees have ergonomic workspaces can help prevent injury, reduce costs, boost productivity and increase morale.

Why an ergonomic policy matters 

Ergonomics doesn’t just happen on its own—it requires planning. The best way to support employees is by developing a clear ergonomic policy. Doing so ensures you have leadership support and a structured approach to creating safer, more efficient workspaces.

Here are some best practices for building an ergonomic program:

• Involve employees early. Encourage feedback so they can share challenges and help shape solutions. Report any concerns to your supervisor.
• Provide training. Employees should know how to set their workstations, recognize ergonomic issues, and identify early symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders.
• Create a process. Assess workspaces, share findings, and implement solutions in a timely manner.
• Follow up regularly. Reassess when employees move, experience health changes or take on new responsibilities.

Key elements of an ergonomically correct workspace

Here are some main features of an ergonomically optimized work environment:

• A wide workspace for equipment and documents to improve productivity
• A work surface close to elbow height, with elbows bent at 90 degrees
• A proper office chair with adjustable support—avoid dining chairs or couches for extended use
• An external keyboard and mouse designed for daily use (not travel devices)
• Monitors raised to eye level, using stands, books or reams of paper if necessary
• Adequate lighting with adjustable brightness and softer tones
• Comfortable ventilation and temperature control

Helping employees work safely from home

Because every home office setup is different, it’s important to understand what support employees need. Some may be working in different locations throughout the home, while others have a dedicated office. A needs assessment can help identify gaps and ensure employees have the right equipment and training.

Steps to take include:

• Ask what employees already have at home and what they need
• Ensure appropriate equipment is present and clear instructions for setup or offer installation support if required
• Train employees on how to properly use and maintain their equipment
• Check in after a few weeks to see what’s working well and where improvements are needed

When you make ergonomics a priority, you send a clear message that employee safety and well-being come first—no matter where work happens.