Many companies view ergonomics as a secondary concern, something to think about once major issues are solved. But in reality, poor ergonomic practices often hide in plain sight, silently draining resources and slowing down business growth. One of the most significant consequences is increased absenteeism. When employees are working in discomfort, they’re more likely to take sick days—even for issues that could have been avoided with a proper workstation setup.

Beyond absence, there’s the issue of productivity. Discomfort causes distractions. Employees who are constantly adjusting their posture, rubbing sore shoulders, or stretching their wrists are not working at their full potential. Even small interruptions in focus, repeated throughout the day, can compound into serious productivity losses over time.

The financial impact doesn’t stop there. High turnover is another side effect of poor ergonomics. Employees who feel physically strained by their jobs are more likely to seek employment elsewhere, leading to increased hiring and training costs. And in many industries, there’s also the risk of compensation claims from ergonomic-related injuries—such as chronic back pain or carpal tunnel syndrome—which can lead to significant legal and insurance expenses.

Conclusion

Ultimately, neglecting ergonomics means accepting unnecessary costs. On the other hand, investing in ergonomic improvements is a smart, proactive business strategy—one that protects people and profits alike.