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Ergonomics at work: a brief history

17 November 2022
Anita Bons

An ergonomic format can be designed for any kind of workplace. Whether it is a personal workstation, a flex space or a concentration workstation. Need inspiration? Subscribe to our newsletter and we will keep you up to date with the latest developments in ergonomic workstations. 

Office design

When furnishing an office, the main focus is often on appearance. The right arrangement and attractive office furniture create a productive, spacious workplace that impresses customers. But ergonomics also has an increasingly important role in creating a healthy workplace. Although it sounds like a recent trend, there is a fascinating history behind it.

Productivity: man and machine

Already during the industrial revolution in the early 20th century, ideas arose for workers to work more productively. There may have been an assembly line, but human muscle power remained important in the production of goods. To make the best use of this power, adjustments were regularly made to machines.

Safety Adjustments

From World War II onwards, more attention also came to safety on the shop floor. Research showed that accidents were often caused not only by human failure, but rather by the poorly adapted design of their working equipment. So machines needed to be better adapted to human factors.

And so the study of ergonomics was born:

The design of utensils, technical systems and tasks in such a way as to promote human safety, health, comfort and effective functioning.”

Ergonomics at the desk

In the 1960s, computer work became increasingly popular and we started doing more and more sedentary work. Office equipment was also adapted to this: large office floors were laid out as efficiently as possible, with each employee having his or her own “cube” including desk, chair and first a typewriter, then a computer.

Although there is now an increasing focus on the well-being of employees, with, for example, spacious workplaces and concentration areas, there is still much to be gained in terms of ergonomics. Because with just an adjustable desk and an ergonomic chair, the many cases of RSI cannot be solved.

Prevention is better than cure

More attention should be paid to preventing complaints. Make sure, for instance, that your monitor is adjustable with a monitor arm and use a document holder. This can easily prevent neck, shoulder and back pain.

Looking for inspiration?

You can design ergonomic furniture for every kind of workplace. Whether it is a personal workstation, a flexible workstation or a concentration workstation. Need inspiration? Subscribe to our newsletter and we will keep you informed about the latest developments in ergonomic workstations. 

Subscribe to our newsletter here.

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