Tension in the neck, a sore back or disc problems: one in three adults in Germany suffers from back problems frequently or constantly. More than 25 million patients in Germany therefore seek medical treatment every year. Back problems are therefore one of the most important causes of incapacity to work and are an enormous burden - not only for those affected, but also for the economy. More and more companies are therefore investing in ergonomic office furniture such as our 24-hour chairs and the comfortable office chairs from StolComfort. Why does this investment literally pay off? Find out in this article.
Incapacity to work due to back problems: A problem in the office too
Occupational back pain or a slipped disc? It is mainly tradespeople like bricklayers and roofers who have to deal with problems like these, isn't it? Physical wear and tear is indeed a problem in this industry. But traditional office jobs can also promote diseases of the spine and back muscles. This is caused by static sitting on unsuitable office chairs, poor posture and a lack of exercise, which weakens the back muscles. Chronic stress is another possible trigger for back pain and is a particular problem in mentally demanding jobs at control centres, airports or emergency call centres.
Demographic development as a risk factor in its own right
Incidentally, men are significantly more frequently affected by back pain than women - across all age groups. Age is also an important and independent risk factor for back problems. This is because arthritis, osteoporosis and other diseases caused by wear and tear often develop over the years. With the average age of the working population, the number of sick days due to back pain and tension will therefore also increase significantly.
Back pain and back disorders cause enormous costs
Back problems are currently responsible for around a quarter[1] of all days of incapacity for work in the office. In total, the number of days of incapacity to work due to back pain amounts to more than 96.7 million[2]! A study by the IKK concluded that the total cost of back pain in Germany alone is around 53 billion euros. 54 per cent[3] of these costs are caused by sick days and reduced work performance. The other 46 per cent can be attributed to visits to the doctor and hospital or physiotherapy for employees. Figures that show: Investing in a healthy work culture is also an investment in the economic success of the company.
Healthy working for healthy growth
In times of staff shortages, many applicants are largely free to choose their employer. Young talents and experienced specialists therefore expect a healthy working environment, which is also reflected in the office equipment and furnishings. In addition to the high costs of absenteeism, this is another argument in favour of investing in ergonomic office furniture. Modern office chairs in particular can make an enormous contribution to maintaining health and employee satisfaction.
Satisfied and healthy employees are priceless
Whether in a tax office, at an airport terminal or in a scientific institute: Your team is your most important resource. They need the right tools to master even the most demanding tasks. In addition to modern technology and pleasant premises, ergonomic furniture such as our Svenstol models is one way to promote the productivity, satisfaction and health of your own employees. After all, chairs are used more intensively than any other piece of office furniture and their effect on well-being and productivity can hardly be overestimated. Companies that want to measurably reduce absenteeism due to back problems and at the same time present themselves as an attractive employer should therefore invest in professional office or control centre chairs.
24-hour chairs: a cost-effective alternative to office chairs
Corporate groups as well as medium-sized companies and public authorities employ a large number of staff. Equipping staff with office furniture is therefore a cost factor that should not be underestimated. The temptation to purchase supposedly inexpensive office chairs is correspondingly great. This is understandable, but the thinking is too short-sighted. One example: the high price of a Svenstol X5 Edition at first glance is put into perspective as soon as the ten-year full guarantee and the much more stable construction compared to a normal office chair are taken into account. The resulting longer service life of the chair alone makes it a worthwhile investment. The value of healthier and happier employees has not even been taken into account. At an average cost of 350 euros per day of absence by an employee, this is a simple calculation. For 24-hour chairs, this calculation works out even better when you consider the intensive use around the clock and the significantly longer time that employees in a control centre spend sitting down. In the medium and long term, ergonomic 24-hour chairs are therefore the more cost-effective and economical choice. A choice that pays off in the truest sense of the word.
Would you like to find out more about our 24-hour chairs or would you like a quote for equipping your premises with our ergonomic office chairs? Give us a call or send us a message. We will be happy to advise you personally.
