How Does Environmental Ergonomics Contribute to Workplace Fatigue? 

When environmental ergonomic conditions are less than ideal, our bodies and minds work harder to adapt, which increases the risk of workplace fatigue. Whether it’s inadequate lighting, uncomfortable temperatures, or distracting noise, these challenges strain our bodies and affect our physical and cognitive performance. Addressing these factors as part of ergonomic design is key to managing fatigue and supporting a healthier, more productive workplace.

In honor of October being National Ergonomics Month, let’s highlight ergonomic strategies that mitigate workplace fatigue. 

How Costly Are Ergonomic Injuries?

Consider this:

• OSHA reports that ergonomic injuries cost employers and injured workers approximately $50 billion annually. 
• 22% of non-fatal workplace injuries are caused by overexertion and fatigue. 
• A single “strain” injury can have costs as high as $65,000

Workplace fatigue and ergonomics are closely linked. When we think of ergonomics, we often focus on how we interact with our environment: how we sit, type on a keyboard, operate machines, or move within our workspace and the contribution of workplace fatigue to ergonomic injury. 

Those costs, cited above, are staggering. They are, however, only one part of “the ergonomic story”. What about the ergonomic influence on workplace fatigue?

The Influence of Environmental Ergonomics on Workplace Fatigue

Environmental factors influence physical and cognitive fatigue in the workplace. Environmental conditions such as lighting, noise, temperature, humidity, vibration, and air quality can affect a worker’s performance and well-being.

Here's how some key factors contribute to fatigue:

Lighting

Insufficient lighting, whether it’s too dim or bright, forces workers to strain their eyes, increasing fatigue risk. Studies have shown that improper lighting reduces productivity by up to 15% and increases errors (Cowan & Aziz, 2020). Optimized lighting reduces eye strain and helps to improve mental clarity. In addition, too much blue light during the night shift can increase workplace fatigue by disrupting our sleep patterns.

Noise

Excessive noise can disrupt concentration and heighten stress, making it harder to focus. Research shows that noise levels above 85 decibels increase the risk of cognitive fatigue and accidents (Conway et al., 2018). Implementing noise reduction measures such as soundproofing or providing quiet workspaces improves mental and physical well-being.

Temperature and Humidity

Extreme temperatures, whether too hot or cold, force the body to expend more energy to maintain comfort, increasing fatigue levels. Studies report a 2% drop in productivity for every degree over 77°F in indoor environments (Lan et al., 2017). Maintaining a comfortable temperature between 68°F and 72°F and stable humidity levels helps minimize discomfort and fatigue.

Vibration

Continuous exposure to vibration, common in industries like construction and transportation, contributes to muscle fatigue and discomfort. Addressing this with anti-vibration seating and equipment can reduce long-term strain and improve performance (ISO, 2018).

Air Quality

Poor air quality impacts both physical energy and mental clarity. Improved ventilation can increase cognitive performance by 10% and reduce symptoms like headaches and fatigue (Allen et al., 2016). Ensuring clean air and appropriate airflow supports focus and energy throughout the work day.

Managing Ergonomics by Mitigating Workplace Fatigue 

Addressing environmental factors alongside ergonomic adjustments can help reduce strains that lead to fatigue at work. Here are some future initiatives to consider:

• Optimizing Lighting: Conduct a lighting level assessment, including a blue light evaluation. Adjust lighting to match specific tasks, reducing eye strain and improving alertness. Cons
• Noise Reduction: Implement soundproofing, provide noise-canceling headsets where appropriate, or establish quiet zones to minimize distractions and reduce mental fatigue.
• Temperature and Air Quality: Maintain comfortable temperature ranges and humidity levels, and improve air circulation to support physical comfort and cognitive function.
• Minimizing Vibration: Use anti-vibration equipment and mats to reduce physical fatigue and support long-term comfort.

By considering these environmental factors as part of ergonomic design and strategies to mitigate workplace fatigue, you can create a safer, more efficient workplace that promotes the overall well-being of your workforce.

FRMS & Environmental Ergonomics

A Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS) is a holistic and comprehensive approach to managing fatigue risk. It's data-driven, risk-informed, performance-based and addresses fatigue risk by creating 5 key defenses: 

   Defense #1 = Workload & Staffing Levels

   Defense #2  = Shift Schedule & Work Hours

   Defense #3  =  Fatigue & Sleep Training 

   Defense #4 =  Workplace Environment (i.e. environmental ergonomics)

   Defense #5 = Fatigue Monitoring

That’s right! Defense #4 Workplace Environment is focused on addressing and optimizing environmental ergonomics to boost alertness, performance, and safety.  You can learn more about FRMS here.

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Figure 1: The Five Defenses of Fatigue Risk Management System

Are you interested in learning more strategies for mitigating workplace fatigue? Give us a call or send us a note! 

Sources:

1. Allen, J. G., MacNaughton, P., Satish, U., Santanam, S., Vallarino, J., & Spengler, J. D. (2016). "Associations of Cognitive Function Scores with Carbon Dioxide, Ventilation, and Volatile Organic Compound Exposures in Office Workers." Environmental Health Perspectives, 124(6), 805-812.
2. Conway, G. E., Szalma, J. L., & Hancock, P. A. (2018). "A Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Occupational Noise on Performance and Safety." Human Factors, 60(5), 613-628.
3. Cowan, S., & Aziz, S. (2020). "The Impact of Lighting on Employee Well-Being and Performance." Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, 25(2), 238-248.
4. ISO. (2018). "Mechanical Vibration and Shock—Evaluation of Human Exposure to Whole-Body Vibration." ISO 2631-1:2018.
5. Lan, L., Lian, Z., & Pan, L. (2017). "The Effects of Air Temperature on Office Workers' Well-being, Workload, and Productivity." Building and Environment, 123, 28-38.