In laundries, the physical demands on employees are high: Frequent bending and lifting, as well as prolonged standing, are part of the daily routine. Over time, this can lead to health problems. That is why ergonomics, as an integral part of occupational safety, is a key factor in creating a healthy work environment in the laundry where employees feel comfortable.
Ergonomic work practices are extremely valuable for laundries: They help increase the efficiency of operations and prevent workplace accidents. Employees feel more comfortable in an ergonomic work environment and make fewer mistakes. This benefits both employers and employees. But what exactly does ergonomics mean, and what makes a workplace in a laundry facility ergonomic?
Workplace Design
Ergonomics deals with the design of workstations to adapt them to people’s abilities, needs, and limitations. In the laundry, for example, this means paying attention to the working heights for daily tasks. The loading and unloading openings of washing machines and dryers must be at a comfortable reach height so that employees do not have to lean forward or bend over excessively. The machines can be raised and secured to allow for safe work with less strain from bending. The work surface of ironing machines should also be at the correct height so that employees can comfortably place and remove the laundry. The negative effects of prolonged standing can be mitigated with special floor coverings such as ergonomic mats. The layout of the equipment in the laundry facility is also important—it should be adapted to the workflow to avoid unnecessary twisting of the torso or long walking distances. Another aspect of ergonomic work practices in laundry facilities is the control panels on the machines. These must be easily accessible and intuitive to use. Clear labeling and intuitive operation help minimize errors and streamline the work process.
Ergonomics Pays Off
Prioritizing ergonomic work practices pays off in the end: Healthy employees whose needs are taken into account feel valued and enjoy their work more. This ultimately also contributes to workplace safety.
When designing our STAHL laundry machines, we focus on both ergonomics and user-friendly, easy operation. Installation and commissioning in your laundry facility are carried out in accordance with your specific needs. Our experts will address all relevant questions with you, help you position the machines to fit your workflow, and provide training on how to operate them safely.
Ergonomic working heights when loading the machines are important to avoid unnecessary bending.