A survey released by Steelcase, a world renown workspace furniture supplier, offers a startling glimpse into how we use devices at work – and how we might ‘strunch’ over them. If you’re wondering why your back is aching, read on.
Having surveyed 2000 people across 11 countries, Steelcase uncovered nine working postures which it links directly to new technologies and workplace behaviours.
It evaluated how the human body interacts with technologies and how it responds as workers shift from one device to another. The research revealed ergonomic implications that Steelcase warns “can cause pain and discomfort for workers”.
Their 9 postures are:
3. The Text: Legs crossed, eyes down, holding a smartphone (and probably texting).
4. The Cocoon: Curled up in a relaxed position, feet up, head craned forward to read or browse.
5. The Swipe: Hunched over a table, one hand swiping a tablet, the other supporting your head.
6. The Smart Lean: Kicking back in a chair, leaning to one side with a device in one hand, the other draped casually over an armrest.
7. The Trance: Bent over a desk, gazing into a computer screen, head supported on one hand, the other controlling a mouse or trackpad.
8. The Take-It-In: Leaning back, reading a screen from a distance, absorbing every word.
9. The Strunch: Sitting at coffee table level, hunched over, reading from a laptop or tablet.
Relaxing and comfortable or an orthopedic disaster waiting to happen? Technology is empowering our working lives in ways never before believed possible – but it comes at a price.
“Because these new postures are not adequately supported, workers are uncomfortable, in pain, and doing long-term harm to their bodies,” says Steelcase. “While technology boosts productivity, it can cause pain that disrupts our work, our ability to concentrate, and our creativity.”
The report also found that workers use their devices – smartphones, laptops or tablets – up to 6 hours each day for work. For many people, the reality is much more.
The above article was originally posted here on Officing Today- The Global Business Center Resource. Read on and click the button below to learn more about how AdvantEdge creates healthy workspaces for small businesses.
Here at AdvantEdge we provide top of the line furniture to ensure you remain comfortable without sacrificing posture or fuctionality. From ergonomic chairs to standing desks we are happy to work with you to make sure your workspace not only helps your business succeed but is also a healthy environment for you and your employees. Book a tour today to find out more about how we can help keep your business, and your employees, happy and healthy.
