Monday, August 11, 2008

Ergonomic Desk Set Up - Why Spend the Money?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that data-entry workers missed an average of five days of work and secretaries missed an average of 4.5 days due to repetitive strain injury in 2002. This translates into $900 for a $52,000 per year employee. Not to mention costs for replacement workers and increased insurance premiums.

If you have intensive computer use employees like programmers or others typing at a keyboard all day there are a few things you can do, probably for well under $900.


Make sure they have a good chair ($185-$450), good and well-positioned monitor ($185 to $624 for a 19" to 24" flat screen) and that these along with their keyboard are at the right position (Free to $200 for a consultation and remedial labor). You can add a monitor arm for between $185 and $300 so that they can position comfortably and change frequently as required for different task. Total ranges from $755 to $1574. The solutions will last for at least five years. Saving an average of at least $4500 for a $52,000 per year employee and a lot more for most.

To do something for free, check out the OSHA website for ergonomic positioning and pass along to your employees. Though free, this simple action may save your business a large amount.

Scott R. Kline
Smart Interiors, Inc