HEALTHY WORKSPACES = Less sick days Inferior workplace equipment and desks that have not been set up correctly or ergonomically can result in higher levels of absenteeism and long- term sickness. Ensuring your office has the correct equipment will help prevent injuries and chronic illness caused by incorrect seating positions, reduced activity and repetitive movements. There are also legal regulations in place to protect the health and safety of employees at work that must be considered. CORRECTING BAD POSTURE Most of the working day can be spent seated, which causes aches and pains in the back, neck, legs and feet. However, by ensuring the chair and desk are set up correctly and using ergonomic equipment such as laptop stands and seat cushions, this risk can be significantly reduced. DID YOU KNOW that one sick day can cost between 500-1000 € Perfect seating position • Knees and elbows are angled at 90 degrees • Feet are flat on the floor or on a footrest • Back has full contact with the backrest Main reasons for absenteeism Absenteeism due to musculoskeletal disorders is increasing. In 2023, there were 40.3 cases per 100 health insurance members, up from 37.4 in 2022 and 34.5 in 2021. On average, individuals took 15.8 sick days for musculoskeletal issues. Improving workplace ergonomics can help mitigate this trend. Cases per 100 health insurance members Days per case Respiratory 82,5 6,1 Musculoskeletal 40,3 15,8 Digestions Injuries Psychological Cardiovascular 18,8 6,6 15,8 18,8 13,8 28,1 8,0 18,3 85 35 20 10 0 10 20 30 Absenteeism Report 2023 12 Source: Wissenschaftliches Institut der AOK (WIdO)