News in the Channel - issue #33

ERGONOMIC FURNITURE

feel-good situation at their workplace, but also better results,” she says. “Sitting down for longer periods can shorten life expectancy and increases the risk of numerous diseases. Musculoskeletal diseases are one of the main reasons for absenteeism. “A high percentage of health problems suffered by employees are due to inadequate ergonomics in the workplace. For example, in 2021, 21.5% of absences from work were due to diseases affecting joints, bones and muscle. “Taking these principles and relating them to wellbeing, it can be argued that companies that recognise that the wellbeing of their people is a driver of performance and profitability, will prosper disproportionately to those that don’t. “Consider the benefits. Companies have many benefits to exploring and improving their workplace ergonomics for the positive benefits to their workforce, both in the office and at home. People are a company’s most precious assets. Wellbeing is an investment, not a cost.” Product discussions There are various pieces of furniture that can be invested in to provide an ergonomic workspace, which resellers should be discussing with customers when home working is part of the conversation. “The essentials make the biggest difference: an adjustable chair, a desk that fits the space, and a monitor stand to get screens to eye level,” says Kevin. “Even smaller items like footrests or wrist supports can prevent long-term health issues. “It’s no longer just about selling a chair or a desk. Resellers can help companies think holistically about the workspace, whether at home or in the office, to support employee wellbeing and productivity.” James adds that ergonomic desk chairs are an important piece of furniture for any home office. “When working from home employees will typically spend at least eight hours per day sitting in a chair, it’s

crucial that this chair offers significant support to prevent injuries,” he says. “A good ergonomic office chair will include built in lumbar support for the lower back, adjustable seat height, moveable armrests and an adjustable head support.” Martina says that a few small changes can have a big impact on an individual’s personal wellbeing and health. “We have experienced growth in the total ergonomic category with our Leitz range,” she adds. “Standout products include our sit-stand stools, wobble cushion, footrests, sitting balls and laptop risers. All these products enable the users to sit, stand and move – movement is key to reducing disease and improving comfort and wellbeing. Our active sitting stools provide comfort, functionality and encourage improvement in overall health, whether in the office or home, by incorporating activity into everyday life. These products can work perfectly around an office and complement existing furniture. “Traditional ergonomic desk equipment is often expensive, cumbersome and lacking in flexibility. Leitz Ergo Sit Standing Desks are easy to adjust, store and move around with your day, they can be used to instantly transform any space to keep you moving and prevent any aches and pains. “Similarly, the Leitz Ergo Laptop Stands fold flat for simple storage and are easily portable – so you can make your home, co-working space or office desk, equally ergonomically correct.”

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A high percentage of health problems

suffered by employees are due to inadequate

ergonomics in the workplace. For example, in 2021, 21.5% of absences from work were due to diseases affecting joints, bones and muscle.

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