by Serafine Lilien | Dec 23, 2024 | Ergo Tips, Ergonomics
The end of the year is a time for reflection, celebration, and often a bit of extra busywork. Whether you’re working, organizing, or tackling seasonal tasks like gift wrapping, it’s important to keep comfort and care at the forefront.
Ergonomics Tip of the Month:
Set up a cozy, ergonomic space for seasonal tasks!
If you’re sitting for long periods—whether at a desk or on the floor—be mindful of your posture:
- Use a chair that supports your lower back.
- Keep your feet flat on the floor and maintain a 90-degree angle at your knees and elbows.
- If you’re wrapping gifts on the floor, place a cushion under your knees or sit on a sturdy surface to prevent strain.
Small adjustments like these can help you stay energized and ready to fully enjoy the season’s activities.
As we close out this year, let’s take a moment to reflect on all we’ve experienced and achieved. Through the highs and lows, the challenges and triumphs, there’s so much to be grateful for. Each moment, big or small, has shaped us into who we are today.
In the midst of it all, let’s also give thanks for the little things that support our well-being—like good posture, a comfortable chair, and ergonomically designed spaces that help us thrive.
Here’s to a Comfortable and Successful New Year!
I am grateful to you all and look forward to sharing more tips and ideas in 2024. Stay safe, stay comfortable, and enjoy this season of connection and care.
by Serafine Lilien | Oct 29, 2024 | Benefit of Ergonomics, Ergo Tips, Ergonomics
👉 Leaning too far forward while you’re focused on your work? That could be putting unnecessary strain on your lower back.
👉 Sitting too far back in your chair? That may be why your neck feels tight by the end of the day.
It’s easy to fall into habits that don’t serve our bodies, especially when we’re deep in our work. But here’s the key: a balanced sitting posture can make a world of difference in how you feel throughout the day. When you sit properly, you’re not just improving your comfort – you’re boosting your productivity and well-being too.
💡 Quick tip: Adjust your posture so your feet are flat on the ground, your lower back is supported, and your head is aligned with your spine. Notice the difference?
If you’re feeling fatigued or sore at the end of the workday, it might be time to check in on your ergonomics. Let’s talk about how to make your workspace work better for you.
Feel free to reach out for a personalized assessment – your body will thank you later! 🙌
by Serafine Lilien | Sep 10, 2024 | Benefit of Ergonomics
| Prevent Fires Before They Start:
Is Your Company Prepared to Prevent Costly Workplace Injuries?
Don’t wait for an injury to happen.
It’s more than just numbers on a spreadsheet—it’s the well-being of people you care about. The impact of even one workplace injury can be overwhelming—not just for your employees, but for your business too. But here’s the good news: You can protect your team and your bottom line with a proactive ergonomic program.
Why Prevention Pays Off
Think about this: A single ergonomic injury, like a sprain, can end up costing more than $64,000 when you add up all the direct and indirect costs. Here’s what that looks like:
- Direct Cost: $30,487
- Indirect Cost: $33,535
https://www.osha.gov/safetypays/estimator |
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Now, let’s compare that to the cost of evaluating your entire team:
- For a Company of 50 Employees: $12,500
- For a Company of 100 Employees: $25,000
For just a fraction of the cost of one injury, you can safeguard your entire workforce.
Evaluate your entire team for …
- 1/3 of the direct costs
- 1/6 of the total costs (direct and indirect)
- 1/170 of the total costs, including additional sales
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| Ergonomics pays for itself. Prevention works.
Prevention works to keep healthy people healthy and to help injured workers get well and be productive.
I’ve always believed that taking care of people is the foundation of any successful business. That’s why I’m so passionate about ergonomic programs—they’re not just about avoiding costs; they’re about creating a safer, healthier environment where everyone can thrive. The numbers speak for themselves:
- 61% reduction in workplace musculoskeletal disorders
- 88% reduction in lost workdays
(Source: Goggins, RW, Spielholz, P, Nothstein, GL (2008). Estimating the effectiveness of ergonomics interventions through case studies: implications for predictive cost-benefit analysis.)
Those aren’t just statistics—they’re stories of people who didn’t have to suffer, companies that didn’t have to struggle, and teams that stayed strong and connected.
Let’s Walk this Path Together
I know it can be hard to take that first step toward something new, especially when it feels like there’s so much else to manage. Don’t wait until your team is hurting—reach out, and let’s talk about how we can create a safer, healthier workplace together.
Prevent fires before they start. Your team’s well-being—and your peace of mind—are worth it. |
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by Serafine Lilien | Aug 6, 2024 | Ergonomics
In the fast-paced world of law, maintaining a comfortable and efficient workspace is crucial. Ergonomic assessments can help law firms in the Portland Metro area (including Vancouver, Washington) optimize their work environments, reducing the risk of injury and boosting productivity..
Law firms, where employees often spend long hours at their desks, can greatly benefit from ergonomic assessments. Here are some key advantages:
- Increased Comfort: Proper ergonomic setups can alleviate discomfort and prevent common issues such as back pain, neck strain, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Enhanced Productivity: Comfortable employees are more focused and efficient, leading to higher productivity levels.
- Reduced Absenteeism: By preventing injuries, ergonomic assessments can reduce the number of sick days taken by employees.
- Improved Employee Morale: Investing in employee well-being shows that the firm values its staff, which can boost morale and job satisfaction.
Steps Involved in an Assessment
- Initial Consultation: A meeting to understand the specific needs and concerns of the law firm.
- Workstation Analysis: A thorough evaluation of the current workstation setup to identify ergonomic risks.
- Recommendations: Providing tailored solutions to address the identified issues, such as adjusting desk heights, improving chair support, and suggesting ergonomic accessories.
- Implementation: Assisting in setting up the recommended ergonomic solutions.
- Follow-Up: Ensuring the changes are effective and making any necessary adjustments.
Several prominent law firms in the Portland Metro area have already benefited from ergonomic assessments and have made their environments more user friendly, have encouraged using neutral posture principals in their offices and designs, which allows their employees to be more comfortable, have less pain and increase productivity. .
by Serafine Lilien | May 14, 2024 | ErgoArts Press
Here are some highlights of the conversation:
💖 Be kind to your body – we only get one.
🙅♂️ Stretches throughout the day are important.
👯 The best thing you can do is to incorporate movement into your day–
aka get up outta that chair and stretch your body and legs
🪑 Do what you can to avoid having ‘Shrimp Back’ (or “C” shaped spine)
Ever feel like your passion for problem-solving is hindered by discomfort or pain? You’re not alone. As an artist turned ergonomist, I’ve woven my personal journey into a mission to ensure everyone can pursue their goals without sacrificing their health.
In this Wacom podcast episode, I delve into how my career transition from artist (illustrator – graphic designer) to ergonomist was fueled by a repetitive strain injury. Through my research, I discovered a crucial key to maintaining optimal health while working: alternating postures. Whether you’re wielding a mouse or a Wacom pen and tablet, the key is variation. By alternating between these tools, you’re not only fostering creativity but also safeguarding your well-being.
My passion lies in empowering individuals, from artists to bankers, to thrive in their fields while adhering to neutral posture principles. I’m dedicated to helping you and your team achieve ergonomic excellence.
Ready to problem solve at your job and remain healthy? Tune in to the podcast and join the conversation. Your feedback is not just welcome—it’s invaluable. Let’s create a healthier, more vibrant workspace together! 💡
I invite you all to take a listen: Wacom Podcast
Let’s connect and craft a healthier workspace!
