5 tips to improve workplace ergonomics in supermarkets

According to a report by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, 25% of workers in the European Union suffer from back pain and 23% experience muscular discomfort. Poor workplace ergonomics are the main cause of these conditions which, in addition to their negative effects on workers’ health, have significant economic repercussions for companies. But what do we mean when we talk about ergonomics?

The International Ergonomics Association defines ergonomics as  “the body of knowledge applied to ensure that work, systems, products and environments are adapted to a person’s physical and mental capabilities and limitations”. Based on these characteristics, its main objective is clear: to adapt work to the employee’s capabilities and possibilities, always putting their health first. How can this objective of workplace ergonomics be achieved in supermarkets?

Improving workplace ergonomics in supermarkets: main challenges

Operating machinery, moving heavy loads, long working hours, constant customer service and tasks in cold rooms entail occupational risks for supermarket workers.  The starting point for any plan that minimises these hazards is compliance with Law 31/1995 on Occupational Risk Prevention. 

Improving workplace ergonomics is important for reducing risks. However, there are challenges inherent to the particular characteristics of supermarkets.

• The design of store spaces prioritises customers’ ability to see the products for sale. As a result, the ease and comfort of employees when interacting with them take second place. 
• Changes to displays, checkout lines or the layout of different sections are not made comprehensively. As new elements are acquired or existing ones are modified, they are incorporated into the supermarket without considering whether or not they meet employees’ ergonomic needs.   

Recommendations for improving workplace ergonomics in supermarkets 

Supermarket workers face physical movements or unnatural conditions every day. This affects their well-being. Following some tips to improve workplace ergonomics brings considerable benefits and increases satisfaction and productivity, as well as reducing leave due to musculoskeletal disorders in the medium and long term..

1. Establish rest periods  

Professionals often carry out repetitive activities that can cause strain or distractions and lead to muscular problems and injuries. Regular breaks improve workplace ergonomics. 

Article 34 of the Workers’ Statute states that any working day lasting more than six hours must include at least a 15-minute break. However, specialists recommend scheduling a five-minute break every hour of work. 

2. Optimise load transport systems

Avoiding workers having to carry excessive weight represents a considerable improvement in ergonomics. Different measures can help achieve this:

• Incorporating mechanical transport systems. 
• Optimising the layout of the work area to reduce distances between points of origin and destination. 
• Removing obstacles from the areas through which loads are moved. 
• Distributing loads according to the worker’s physical capabilities.  

3. Posture training for workers

Improving workplace ergonomics also depends on the training employees receive on body movements and postures that reduce the risk of injury. In this regard, the work of checkout staff and shelf stockers makes them prone to muscular injuries, so it is advisable for them to receive training to prevent them.

4. Appropriate clothing and footwear

Clothing and footwear are essential for working in supermarkets. Comfortable clothing that promotes mobility, safety and breathability improves workplace ergonomics. 

Footwear also plays a fundamental role in ensuring workers’ well-being and protection. Having an slip-resistant outsole like the one patented by Shoes For Crews provides, for example, excellent grip to prevent slips in any circumstance. 

5. Using technology to improve workplace ergonomics

Technological advances are excellent allies for automating repetitive processes or increasing their efficiency. The possibilities are wide-ranging. 

For example, there are robots capable of lifting heavy weights and moving them fully autonomously to their destination. Meanwhile, warehouse organisation is optimised thanks to management software, which arranges goods to control unnecessary worker movements. 

Improving workplace ergonomics in supermarkets has an impact on workers’ well-being and satisfaction and helps increase their productivity. And often this satisfaction starts with their feet, with the reassurance of having comfortable, high-performance footwear. At Shoes For Crews, we are specialists in slip-resistant work footwear and offer a wide variety of models for supermarket workers. Contact us and we will provide all the information you need.