How Ergonomics is Applied in the Retail Industry
The retail industry is one of the most important sectors in the American economy. With more than 32 million directly employed by retail companies, many Americans rely on our favorite retailers for more than just their favorite snacks and electronics.
While the retail industry is one of our oldest and most important, the front-line workers that keep our favorite stores open don’t have the easiest jobs. With long hours of physically demanding labor, retail work can take a heavy toll on the average employee.
In recent years, workplace experts, government agencies, and company executives have invested heavily in introducing ergonomic solutions in the workplace. By implementing ergonomics products and training in the retail industry, companies can protect their workers, reduce operational costs, and improve productivity. Below are just a few ways the world’s leading retailers are using ergonomic solutions to protect their workers and their bottom lines.
Folding Table Risers
Folding tables are a popular tool in the retail industry. They can be used as temporary workstations, storage, product displays, and more. However, the fatal design of folding tables is their height.
While most folding tables are built for users to sit at, many retail workers use folding tables for standing activities. The improper height of folding tables can force retail workers to bend their backs, necks, hips, and knees for extended periods of time, potentially causing workplace injuries. With folding table extenders, workers can raise folding tables to the proper height and prevent any harm.
Anti-Fatigue Mats
Many retail jobs require workers to stand stationary for hours on end. Standing for extended periods of time can cause pain in the feet, knees, hips, and back. Anti-fatigue mats can improve workplace conditions for workers by absorbing the shock of standing and walking for hours on end. These mats are so effective that they can reduce the level of discomfort and fatigue by up to 50%.
Ergonomic Chairs
One of the most prominent ergonomic solutions is ergonomic chairs. Many retail workers, such as cashiers and office workers, stay seated for the majority of their shifts. Prolonged periods of sitting have numerous health risks, such as increased blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, reduced metabolism, and lower-back pain. Ergonomic chairs are designed to improve the health of workers by fixing their seated posture and increasing blood flow.
Standing Workstation
In recent years, standing workstations have become commonplace in many industries, including retail. Retail workers, from cashiers to pharmacists to customer service specialists, are all required to use a computer to perform their daily tasks. By implementing standing desks, companies can allow workers to stand during the workday, leading to numerous health benefits such as enhanced blood flow, improved posture, and reduced fatigue.
Education & Techniques
One of the most overlooked aspects of ergonomics is education and techniques. While ergonomics has grown in popularity, many company leaders and retail workers aren’t informed about the productivity and health benefits ergonomics can provide.
Before implementing any ergonomic solutions, retail managers should brief their workers on the importance of ergonomics products and techniques. Managers should stay informed on modern techniques for handling heavy items, working extended hours, and the harms of using various equipment. Through education, company leaders can prevent serious injury, improve workplace conditions, and boost productivity.
Ergonomic Solutions that Matter
Ergonomic solutions are becoming a vital part of the retail industry. These products and techniques are important for boosting workplace efficiency, protecting workers’ health, and improving profitability.
Many retail workers use folding tables to accomplish their daily tasks. While folding tables are durable and reliable, many folding tables are built at the wrong height. With Lift Your Table® folding table risers, workers can set their workstations to the proper height and prevent fatigue, injury, and loss of productivity.
If you’re looking to improve the lives of your retail workers, check out our website to learn more about how our folding table risers can help your organization.
With our flagship folding table risers, you can…
