Key Ingredients for Workplace Sustainability
Sustainable practices and business performance go hand in hand, especially in manufacturing and other industrial settings.
"Sustainable operations extend beyond product safety to include the health and safety of employees," affirms Ann Durbin, RN, BSN, a Cone Health occupational health and wellness nurse.
By adopting three key sustainability best practices, companies have the necessary ingredients to enhance safety, trim costs and boost productivity.
Supporting employees with ergonomic design: When workplace design reflects employee safety, comfort and tasks, individuals experience fewer musculoskeletal injuries and are more productive, according to OSHA. Onsite ergonomic assessments, like those offered by Cone Health Employer Health & Wellness Solutions, can help optimize entire workplaces, including individual workspaces.
Further, employers can opt for eco-friendly designs, such as adjustable, anti-fatigue and smart workstations. Adjustable desks and work benches accommodate different body types and tasks to promote comfort and reduce strain. Anti-fatigue mats benefit workers who stand for long periods by distributing their weight more evenly across their feet and adding stability. Also, the latest smart workstations provide personalized assessments and dynamic adjustments based on user data and posture analysis.
Lighting the way with energy efficiency: Improving lighting enhances worker visibility and safety and trims costs. LED lighting lasts 25 times longer than traditional bulbs and uses up to 75% less energy, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. With better illumination, employees can more easily identify potential hazards, like uneven surfaces and obstacles, and reduce the risk of accidents.
Reducing waste to lighten the load: By using recyclable, durable, lightweight or other innovative materials throughout the supply chain, companies can reduce waste, streamline operations and create a safer workplace. Lightweight materials can make products and equipment easier to move and lower the risk of injury. Also, recyclable and other materials can contribute to a healthier work environment and decrease disposal and repair costs.
To learn more about partnering with Cone Health Employer Health & Wellness Solutions to provide employer travel medicine services, contact Jacqueline Heyward at (336) 586-3972.
