Workplace productivity is a function of several things, including vision. Workers who do not have vision problems are likely to be more productive, and the converse is also true. Here are a few examples of how poor vision can lower your workers' productivity:
It Causes Bad Posture
There is a direct relationship between poor vision and bad posture. For example, if you can't see your computer screen well, then you will tend to lean forward to improve your vision. This will hunch your shoulders and tilt your head forward. This is likely to lead to pain in your back, neck and shoulders.
This will lead to reduced productivity since you may take longer hours to complete the same tasks if you are in pain. Bad posture may also lead to more incidences of sick days.
It Leads to Reduced Concentration
Eye strain is a real problem in the workplace. According to some statistics, about 47% of employees cite eye strain as their number one visual problem. Causes of eyestrain depend on the nature of the workplace. In a typical office, eye strain is mostly caused by these three factors:
- prolonged use of computers
- poor lighting
- exposure to bright lights
According to Mayo Clinic, eye strain is disruptive and leads to reduced concentration. Obviously, a worker with concentration problems is less productive than one who can concentrate fully on his or her task. If your eyes are fatigued, then you may also need to take longer breaks to rest them, and this interferes with your productivity too.
It May Increase Risks of Accidents
Although eye strain does not usually lead to permanent eye damage, it does have some undesirable symptoms. For example, it can lead to headaches, blurred vision, and general discomfort. An employee who is feeling these symptoms is likely to be stressed, and stress increases the likelihood of workplace accidents. This is not only bad for your employee's health, but it can also cost you money in the form of increased rates of workers compensation claims.
Deal with vision-related problems by:
- Providing ergonomic workstations
- Lighting up your workplace appropriately
- Providing eye exams throughout each employee's career at your business. This way, specific problems can be identified and corrected.
Looking after your employee's eye health is a win-win situation. It helps to reduce work-related stress and risks of injury, and also increases productivity. Of course, those with specific eye problems should be encouraged to consult eye doctors for professional help.
Share
