AC2021 - 103: The Ergonomics of Working Remotely: Lessons Learned from COVID-19

Qualifies for CPD hours - Health & Wellness - Safe Workplace

Working at home was unexpected, and employers were unprepared to address the physical and psychological issues of sending staff to work remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic.  Data collected during COVID-19 found more than 74% of employers sent staff home with only a laptop, and nearly all remote workers were working at makeshift locations like kitchen tables, couches,  and even their beds. When polled,>65% of employees stated that their home workstation set-up caused them to adopt awkward and unsafe body postures. The lack of equipment and resources made for less than ideal workstations, negatively impacting the productivity, comfort and overall stress of employees.

Learning Objectives

• This session will review statistical data, and case studies compiled from over 15 Ontario employers during 2020’s quarantine.
• Looking at the employee experience, their struggles and successes, delve into tested best practices for your Remote Work Program which will cover elements such as ergonomic equipment toolkits, training initiatives, office self-assessments and home office purchasing standards.
• This will be a resource packed session with practical and tested solutions to ensure a healthy, mindful, modern “working from home” experience for all remote employees.

Jennifer McGillis, M.Sc., R.Kin., CPE

Certified Professional Ergonomist
PROergonomics

With over 16 years of experience, Jennifer McGillis is a highly sought after speaker and Ergonomic Specialist with a Masters in Biomechanics, Registered Kinesiologist and Certified Professional Ergonomist and Co-Owner of PRO ergonomics.

Jennifer has built a career implementing participatory ergonomic strategies that help clients gain corporate involvement at all levels. She makes connections between various job assessments and program elements to ensure all pieces are working together, saving her clients valuable time and money.