Remote Ergonomic Assessments: Why Employers Need to Act Now
Depending on which statistics you read, around 88% of the global workforce suddenly shifted to remote work in 2020. For over half of these individuals, working from home was a brand-new experience. What started as a temporary fix has evolved into a long-term workplace transformation—and with it, the need for remote ergonomic assessments has become more critical than ever.
🔗 Learn more about Capella’s ergonomic training and support
The Legal Obligation Around Remote Ergonomics
According to the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 and the General Application Regulations of 2007, Irish employers hold direct responsibility for their staff’s safety—regardless of location. This means companies must proactively assess the safety and setup of each employee’s home work environment. Relying on self-assessment forms is not sufficient and could be seen as delegating risk, which leaves companies exposed to legal liability.
Why Remote Ergonomic Assessments Matter
As remote work continues, companies must shift from reactive to proactive strategies. Beyond IT and security, ergonomic support is a vital element of maintaining employee health, comfort, and productivity. Long hours in poorly designed setups can lead to musculoskeletal issues and costly absences.
Key areas of risk include:
- Poor chair and desk height
- Inadequate lighting or ventilation
- Unsafe electrical setups
- Lack of proper keyboard/mouse usage
Capella’s Online Ergonomic Assessment Platform
At Capella, we’ve developed a streamlined, online ergonomic assessment platform that meets both employer needs and legal standards. Here’s how it works:
✔ Employees submit workstation photos and key data
✔ Certified ergonomic assessors review submissions
✔ High-risk cases are flagged for remote consultations
✔ Actionable advice is provided for improvements
What About Equipment and Furniture?
Not every company provides equipment, but when they do, it’s crucial that the investment goes into ergonomically approved furniture. A stylish gaming chair may look impressive, but that doesn’t mean it offers the support employees need.
Capella works with vetted suppliers to help companies source ergonomic desks, chairs, and accessories. We also maintain a list of pre-approved equipment to make the process easier for managers and employees alike.
The Cost of Inaction
Skipping proper remote ergonomic assessments may save budget short-term, but the long-term consequences can be expensive. Repetitive strain injuries, increased sick leave, or even legal claims can quickly exceed the cost of getting assessments and solutions right the first time.
📌 Pro tip: If you’re unsure where to start, seek support from a specialist provider to help your teams stay safe, compliant, and productive.