Designing ergonomic workstations - how it works

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What is ergonomics - and why does it affect every company?

Ergonomics describes the scientifically based design of working conditions that places people - physically and mentally - at the centre. The aim is to organise workplaces in such a way that stress is reduced, health is maintained and productivity is promoted.

An ergonomic workplace adapts to people, not the other way round!

In practice, ergonomics involves far more than just adjusting the height of a desk or the distance between monitors. It is crucial in the office, warehouse, production and home office - wherever repetitive movements, one-sided strain or rigid postures can jeopardise health in the long term.

Why is ergonomics in the workplace so important?

Maintain health and reduce downtime

Back pain, tension in the neck, eye problems or chronic poor posture are classic consequences of non-ergonomic workstations. Studies show that musculoskeletal disorders are the most common cause of days off work in Germany. Companies that invest in ergonomic workplace design benefit from fewer sick days, lower staff turnover and higher employee satisfaction.

Increase productivity and concentration

A well-equipped workplace not only reduces health complaints, but also improves performance. A correctly positioned screen, an ergonomic mouse or a back-friendly office chair promote concentration - especially during long periods of screen work.

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Legal basis: More ergonomics in the workplace

In In Germany, employers are legally obliged to provide ergonomically safe workplaces. The most important legal framework conditions:

• Workplace Ordinance (ArbStättV)
  • regulates the general design of workplaces, including VDU workstations.
    
• Display Screen Equipment Ordinance (BildscharbV)
  •  describes minimum requirements for VDU workstations (e.g. distances, lighting conditions).
    
• Occupational Health and Safety Act (ArbSchG)
  • obliges employers to carry out risk assessments and derive ergonomic measures from them.

Working at a desk / in the office: What should I bear in mind?

The most important elements of an ergonomic office workstation design

Desk & table height
The table top should be high enough so that the forearms and upper arms are Angle of at least 90 degrees can rest on the floor. The Table height can ideally be customised - it is also worth investing in an electric, height-adjustable desk.

Office chair & backrest
The office chair should be multi-adjustable - in terms of seat height, backrest, neckrest and armrests. The Backrest must support the lumbar region and enable dynamic sitting.

Monitor & distance to the eye
The Screen should be a Arm's length away stand with the upper edge slightly below eye level. Your gaze should fall slightly downwards. A second monitor height or mount helps with multiple screens.

Keyboard and mouse
The Keyboard lies flat and not too far forwards - this is easy on the wrists and shoulders. The mouse should sit comfortably in the hand and be positioned directly next to the keyboard to avoid one-sided strain.

Leg and footwell
Ideally, the feet should be flat on the floor or on a footrest. The Thigh lie horizontally or slightly sloping - for optimum blood circulation.

Ambient noise, light, climate
Noise, poor lighting or poor air quality lead to stress and exhaustion. Good ergonomics therefore also take acoustics, ventilation and glare-free light into account. The room should be neither too dark nor too bright. Natural daylight and indoor plants make for a healthier office.

Ergonomic behaviour in the office: movement is mandatory

Even the best ergonomic workstation is no substitute for regular exercise. Sitting all the time - even correctly - is a strain in the long term. Therefore:

• Stand up or stretch briefly every 30 minutes
• Take at least 1-2 active breaks a day
• Incorporate small exercises (stretching, mobilisation)

💡 Digital offers such as Isa from Deep Care integrate such movement impulses into everyday working life - even when working from home. ISA offers simple exercises for neck and back strengthening, stretching and relaxation directly at the workplace.

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Ergonomics in production, warehouse & physical labour

Ergonomics is crucial not only in the office, but also in warehouses, workshops and industry. The challenges here are different - it's often about Lifting and carrying, Forced postures, Vibration effects or monotonous manual activities.

Examples of ergonomic measures:

• Height-adjustable workbenches
• Back-friendly lifting and carrying aids
• Lifting aids and industrial trucks for heavy loads
• Rotatable gripping aids to avoid one-sided loading
• Adapted reach-in spaces and work areas
• Anti-fatigue mats for standing work
• Ergonomic tools and gloves
• Appropriate indoor climate
• Provide work equipment that relieves the body and minimises risks

Recognising hazards

The Occupational Health and Safety Act also stipulates a risk assessment here - especially for physical strain. Musculoskeletal complaints often develop gradually:

• Overhead work
• Permanent bending or twisting
• prolonged standing without movement
• Lifting loads over 20 kg without aids

Regular training, workplace analyses and flexible break structures are essential here.

Ergonomic workplace design in the home office

The same ergonomic requirements apply when working from home - but realising them is often more difficult. Many work at the kitchen table or with a laptop on the couch. Companies should actively support their employees - e.g. by:

• Subsidies for ergonomic chairs or tables
• Guides to ergonomic furnishing at home
• Digital movement impulses and ergonomics coaching (e.g. Isa)

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Checklists for ergonomic workplace design

Ergonomics checklist for the office

• Table height individually adjustable?
• Chair with adjustable backrest, height, armrests?
• Monitor positioned correctly (eye level, distance)?
• Keyboard and mouse within reach, wrist neutral?
• Footrest available (if necessary)?
• Good lighting conditions (glare-free, sufficient)?
• Regular breaks & exercise programmes?

Ergonomics checklist for production & warehouse

• Load reduction with aids?
• Is it possible to work in a neutral posture?
• Lifting and carrying operations ergonomically designed?
• Standing work supplemented by mats or seating?
• Avoiding the effects of vibration?
• Training courses on back-friendly working carried out?
• Sufficient recovery breaks possible?

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Conclusion: Ergonomic workplace as a success factor

Ergonomics in the workplace is not a luxury - it is a prerequisite for long-term health, motivation and productivity. Companies that take ergonomic principles seriously and actively implement them - whether in the office or in the warehouse - not only create safe workplaces, but also strengthen their employer branding and reduce long-term costs due to sickness absence. Ergonomic workplace design should be an integral part of every occupational health management programme - practical, legally compliant and with a real impact.