Work from Home: Best Ergonomic Practices

Things to Consider

Many workers’ compensation laws do not distinguish between home-based and office-based workers. Here are three ways to prevent injuries and mitigate risk for your organization:

1. Provide an ergonomically designed workspace

2. Offer instructions on how to set up an ergonomically designed workspace

3. Provide reimbursement for an ergonomically designed chair and desk

Telecommuting is sometimes requested as a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). For example, if someone has:

A disability and a medical need to work at home, and essential job functions can be accomplished there

An underlying condition resulting in a medical need to avoid the workplace because of COVID-19

Insurance company policies vary on how they view the home office as an extension of the office—be sure to check with your policyholder.

Protecting Your Most Important Asset

While your people may not be in the office, there is still an advantage in giving them the tools they need to do their best work. Providing ergonomic solutions and sharing information on healthy ways to work from home shows you care about their wellbeing, which can lead to stronger employee engagement and performance. When your workforce is your most valuable asset, it pays to invest in them while demonstrating you support their choice to work from home.

Setting up Employees for Success

Basic fundamentals for creating a healthy work environment in the home office include: