The ROI of Standing Desks
A simple way to increase the efficiency in an office setting is to invest in ergonomic sit-stand desks, also known as height adjustable desks.
Standing desks create a more ergonomic workplace by allowing employees to work more comfortably while providing the flexibility perform work by sitting or standing. These desks can be raised or lowered to match an employee’s height, whether he is sitting or standing.
Standing desks offer health benefits to those who use them. Sitting all day in an office can cause back problems, circulation issues, and obesity. One of the health benefits sit-stand desks yield is weight management More calories are burned when a person stands as compared to when a person sits. In addition, standing can help regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels and can lead to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. For the health conscience employee, standing is a better option.
In addition, since standing allows employees to be more physically active, the resulting health benefits can lower healthcare costs not only for themselves but for employers. And in terms of worker’s comp claims, there should be less back related injuries happening on the job which also saves employers money.
Sit-stand desk creates a more active workforce. When we are physically active, the body releases endorphins. Endorphins are a chemical that when released make people feel good and can raise their energy level to complete daily tasks. When employees feel good, they are generally more productive. There have been many studies at ergonomic workplaces illustrating increased employee productivity when height adjustable desks are in use.
Texas A&M held a study with call center employees. The call center workers who used standing desks sat about 1.5 hours less than those without the desks and the standing employees had about 45% higher productivity levels than seated counterparts. Productivity levels may vary a little depending on the workplace environment and job specifications.
To fully embrace the ergonomic workplace, installing additional computer monitors to display work for the employees can bring additional benefits. Completing tasks becomes quicker when you don’t have to toggle between documents. Studies show a 20% to 30% increase in productivity.
Purchasing ergonomic equipment like height adjustable desks and additional monitors are simple and relatively low cost investments for the returns in productivity they yield. Employees are looking at these items like perks of employment and will ultimately lower the turnover rate which will save the company even more money.
