Ergonomics means, quite literally, the science of work. Derived from the Greek word ergos or 'work' and nomos meaning 'natural laws of' or 'study of', ergonomics removes barriers to quality, productivity and safe human performance by fitting products, tasks, and environments to people.

This means that rather than designing a piece of office furniture or equipment simply based on aesthetics or storage capabilities, ergonomists take human anatomy and physiology into consideration, asking themselves the question, "Can we expect human beings to work efficiently and without discomfort in this setting?"

Introducing an ergonomically-sound environment can have many important benefits for employers and employees alike and the application of ergonomic principles can result in:

• A reduction in occupational injury and illness;
• An enhanced rate of productivity;
• Improved work quality;
• Reduced levels of absenteeism.
• Increased job satisfaction;
• Improved quality of work; and
• Lower employee turnover

In-short, ergonomics provides a method for finding smarter ways of working in an environment that is more 'user-friendly'.

Ergonomics can be applied to everything that involves people: work systems, home furnishings, sports and leisure and office design. Good design practices in any of these areas will be based on information about physical characteristics such as height and weight and, in the case of good office design, requirements in respect of safe and comfortable basic movements.

Ergonomic principles
The design and planning of ergonomic offices will incorporate a number of key principles that contribute to the safety and comfort of everyone.

• Work in the neutral position.
  Equipment in the ergonomic office should be designed to ensure the s-curve of the spinal column is always retained, whether you’re sitting at your desk or standing up to work. Retaining the s-curve helps to reduce the risk of injury: by keeping the neck aligned in its neutral position (i.e. in line with the spine), prolonged twisting and unhealthy bent postures will be avoided and pressure that may damage the remainder of the spine will be reduced.
  
  Equipment should also be designed to keep elbows and shoulder relaxed and in their natural position and the wrists in a neutral position, in line with the forearm.

• Keep everything in easy reach
  A good workstation design will have a semi-circle of activity within which everything you need is located. This will help avoid undue stretching and straining. Simple rearrangement of the work area should help you achieve this objective.
• Work at proper heights
  Not only does this make things easier, it’s much more comfortable and will reduce undue stress on your body.
• Reduce Excessive Motion
  By rationalising the motions made throughout the day by fingers, wrists and arms, you can help relieve stress on all these appendages and also your back.
• Minimise static load
  Holding the same position for a period of time is known as static load and this can create fatigue and discomfort. It's essential that the equipment you have, especially your chair, is designed ergonomically to ensure you can work in at least 2 or 3 safe and comfortable positions.
• Minimise pressure points
  Make sure your chair is of good quality and adjusted appropriately to minimise pressure points that may cause discomfort. A particularly vulnerable spot is behind your knees and pressure may be applied here if your chair is too high or when you dangle your legs.
• Provide clearance
  Work areas need to be set up ergonomically to ensure you have sufficient room for your head, your knees, and your feet. This clearance is crucial to avoid having to work in contorted or uncomfortable positions or to stop yourself from bumping into things because there’s no space for your knees or feet.