The Productivity Benefits of Ergonomics in 4 Statistics

Most managers understand the basic premise: Ergonomics shape the work to the worker, and that has major advantages for both the employee and the employer. Over time, ergonomic equipment allows for more throughput, higher productivity, fewer on-the-job injuries, and less employee turnover.

However, actually making that case can be difficult — particularly when you’re purchasing material handling equipment (MHE). The good news: The benefits of ergonomics are well established, and there’s plenty of data to support that conclusion. 

Here are a few statistics that demonstrate the link between ergonomics and productivity.

1. Poor Ergonomics Costs Billions in Workers' Compensation Claims

If you’re making the case for ergonomic MHE, the cost of on-the-job injuries can be a compelling part of your argument. 

Overexertion during material handling ranks first among the leading causes of disabling workplace injuries, according to a report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Ergonomic issues comprise 33% of all worker injury and illness cases in the United States, which translated to about $13.3 billion in total workers’ compensation claims in 2021.

Awkward postures — another ergonomic issue — were responsible for $4.7 billion in claims, while repetitive motions involving “microtasks" (small jobs such as typing and using a mouse) cost about $1.7 billion. 

The right equipment can play a crucial role in limiting these types of injuries and keeping workers on the job. That also means less turnover, which leads us to another surprising statistic.

2. Ergonomic Equipment Can Dramatically Reduce Employee Turnover by Nearly 40%

In the manufacturing industry, the average employee turnover rate has hovered around 39.9% according to the BLS. Turnover, of course, is bad for productivity; new employees must be trained, which can be costly, and experienced workers are generally more efficient when tasks require even a moderate amount of skill.

According to a study from the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (DLI), businesses that prioritize ergonomics see a 48% average reduction in employee turnover and a 58% reduction in employee absenteeism. 

Why? For starters, appropriate equipment means less awkward positioning, less heavy lifting, and more natural movements. The simple fact is that when work doesn’t hurt, people are less likely to quit. 

Related: Lift Tables in Manufacturing: Mobile or Stationary?

3. Ergonomics Increases Productivity By 25% On Average

If you’re looking for a simple, compelling statistic to justify your ergonomics initiative, this might be it: The Washington State DLI study also found a 25% increase in productivity among businesses that implemented an ergonomic program. 

That’s noteworthy for two reasons. One, it’s a fairly big number (a 25% increase is significant in any industry). Two, the study was a meta-analysis of 250 case studies covering small- and medium-sized businesses; that means that the number may be even higher for specific industries that rely more heavily on ergonomic interventions. 

4. Ergonomics Saves Materials and Promotes Lean Processes

When employees have workstations that are suited to their bodies and the task at hand, they’re less likely to make mistakes. By extension, they’re less likely to waste materials; the Washington DLI found that ergonomic-forward businesses saw a 67% average reduction in scrap and errors.

Lean facilities are constantly looking for ways to optimize processes and cut waste. Ergonomic equipment does both — and begins paying back the employer’s investment on day one. 

Find the Right Material Handling Equipment for Your Operation

Your business’s unique characteristics will determine which types of MHE provide the best return. Solus Group can help you find the solutions that make sense for your facility. 

Some common examples of ergonomic MHE that work well at warehouses, storage centers, manufacturing plants, and other industrial facilities:

• Lift Tables can be used to bring loads up to a safe working height.
• Tilt Tables can put loads at an appropriate angle for assembly or order picking.
• Adjustable Packing Desks can streamline sorting and packing.
• Bin Tippers can prevent overexertion by safely emptying containers at height. 

We also have application specific solutions like Light Fixture Carts and Conduit Carrier Carts. These tools are designed to protect materials and  simplify movement through sound ergonomic principles. 

Most importantly, all equipment can be customized to deliver optimal ergonomic benefits. When your MHE is designed for your workflow, everything runs more smoothly — and everyone wins.

If you’re ready to make the business case for ergonomic material handling equipment, we’re ready to help. Call 314-696-0200 today to speak with a member of our sales team.