Write an article about Non-ergonomic workplaces pose long-term health risks .Organize the content with appropriate headings and subheadings (h1, h2, h3, h4, h5, h6), Retain any existing tags from Without proper ergonomic measures, employees are at risk of developing various long-term health problems such as back and neck pain. (Envato Elements pic)
KUALA LUMPUR: Non-ergonomic work environments contribute to stress and health issues – especially those affecting the spine, joints and muscles – among employees. These problems can, in turn, lead to increased sick leave and reduced productivity, ultimately impacting the overall performance of an organisation.
According to Ahmad Fakhrul Anuar Ismail, president of the Malaysian Society for Occupational Safety and Health, workers at programmes run by the association frequently raise concerns over their long-term wellbeing.
“One of the most common issues is the increase in sick leave due to muscle and joint discomfort, as well as work-related stress, all stemming from a non-ergonomic workplace environment,” he told Bernama.
Ergonomics in this context refers to the designing and arranging of workplaces, tools and equipment to fit the needs of those who use them, with the goal of creating a safe, comfortable and efficient work environment.
Universiti Teknologi Mara assistant vice-chancellor Amer Shakir Zainol said an ergonomic environment can be achieved by reducing the physical and mental strain workers experience throughout their workday.
Amer Shakir Zainol.
He said without proper ergonomic adaptation, workers are at risk of developing various long-term health problems, with back and neck pain being the most common.
Amer explained that a flexible workspace design plays an important role in preventing workers from spending excessive time at their desks or sitting in static positions, which contributes to back and neck strain.
“Many companies no longer practise the concept of one desk per worker. Instead, employees can choose to work in different areas including cafés, or sit in more comfortable chairs depending on their needs,” he noted.
Non-ergonomic environments
Ahmad Fakhrul, meanwhile, noted that while workplace environments in Malaysia have yet to reach optimal ergonomic levels, especially among small and medium enterprises, the situation is still manageable.
“Local statistics show trends consistent with other countries, including developed nations, indicating that ergonomic issues are a global challenge, not limited to Malaysia,” he said.
Ahmad Fakhrul Anuar Ismail.
He added that Malaysia has shown positive progress in ergonomics, particularly through government initiatives. For example, publications such as the Manual Handling Guidelines 2018, Ergonomic Risk Assessment Guidelines 2017, and Seating and Standing at Work Guidelines 2024 have helped industries implement proper ergonomic interventions.
The occupational safety and health department is also in the process of upgrading some of these guidelines into codes of practice to improve compliance as well as control over ergonomic issues in the workplace, he said.
According to Ahmad Fakhrul, the long-term effects of a non-ergonomic work environment can seriously affect workers’ quality of life. In many cases, this not only leads to physical disabilities but also to mental health issues such as depression caused by chronic pain.
“Companies that fail to provide an ergonomic work environment risk facing reduced productivity and higher medical costs. Unhealthy employees will struggle to work efficiently, ultimately impacting overall performance,” he stressed.
Adjustable tables, chairs, and screen positions are among fundamental steps organisations can take to reduce physical strain on employees. (Envato Elements pic)
Basic steps employers can take include ensuring tables and chairs, as well as the position of computer screens, are adjustable, to reduce physical strain on the body.
He said employees should also be trained on proper posture management, safe object-lifting techniques, and other practices that can reduce injury risks.
Ahmad Fakhrul further recommends the use of specially designed keyboards and mice to reduce strain on the hands and wrists for those who work with computers or other devices that require repetitive movement.
Finally, he encourages workers to take short breaks every so often to relieve strain on their eyes, neck and shoulders.
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