The relationship between health problems and work life is one of the most important issues of our age. Health problems caused by non-ergonomic conditions and psychosocial factors are attracting more and more attention, especially in individuals working in office environments. In this article, we will elaborate on the main health problems affecting office workers and their causes, preventive measures and possible solutions.

Musculoskeletal System Diseases

Musculoskeletal disorders common in office workers are often caused by non-ergonomic working conditions. For example:

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Repetitive hand movements, such as prolonged keyboard or phone use, can cause compression of the nerve in the wrist and symptoms such as pain, weakness and tingling.

Back and Neck Pain: Using an inappropriate chair, desk or computer screen can lead to tension and pain in the lower back, back and neck muscles.

Tendon Inflammation Repetitive movements or improper ergonomics can cause tendon inflammation and painful movements in the thumb, wrist, shoulder or elbow.

Heart and Circulatory System Diseases

Indoor air quality in the office environment, factors such as noise, vibration and psychosocial stress can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, heart attack and varicose veins. Therefore, improving indoor air quality is critical in preventing such health problems.

Metabolic Diseases

Metabolic diseases such as obesity, diabetes and allergies are common among office workers and are linked to factors such as psychosocial stress, indoor environmental quality, poor dietary habits and insufficient physical activity. Therefore, promoting healthy diets, regular exercise and ergonomic working conditions is of great importance.

Infectious Diseases

Office environments can be favorable environments for the spread of infectious diseases, especially due to poor ventilation. Diseases such as influenza and COVID-19 can easily spread through the air, so effective ventilation systems and hygiene practices are vital.

Mental Health Diseases

Mental health problems such as stress, depression and anxiety are a growing problem among office workers. These problems can be caused by psychosocial risk factors such as workload, workplace relationships and job insecurity. Employers need to be sensitive to this issue and provide a supportive working environment.

Eye Health Diseases

Prolonged screen use can cause dry eyes and vision problems. Taking regular breaks and paying attention to eye health can help prevent such problems.

Prevention and Solutions

Ergonomic adjustments in the workplace, employee training, the use of personal protective equipment and the promotion of healthy living habits play a critical role in preventing health problems affecting office workers. The following measures and solutions can contribute to reducing such health problems:

Ergonomic Workspace Organization: Ergonomic office equipment such as desks, chairs and computer screens help prevent musculoskeletal disorders. For example, adjustable chairs and desks, proper monitor height and keyboard placement support correct posture.

Regular Breaks: Regular breaks are important to reduce the negative effects of prolonged sitting and screen time. Short walks, stretching exercises and eye rest techniques can reduce physical and mental fatigue.

Physical Activity and Healthy Nutrition: Regular exercise and healthy eating habits help prevent metabolic diseases. It is important to offer healthy eating options and encourage sports activities in the workplace.

Ventilation and Hygiene: Effective ventilation systems and regular cleaning prevent the spread of infectious diseases. The easy availability of hygiene products such as hand sanitizers in workplaces reduces the risk of disease.

Psychosocial Support: Measures such as stress management programs, employee counseling and workload balancing help prevent mental health problems. A positive work environment and workplace culture improves the psychosocial well-being of employees.

Precautions for Eye Health: To maintain eye health, it is recommended to adjust screen brightness and contrast, place the screen at eye level and use anti-reflective screen protectors. Eye exercises such as the 20-20-20 rule (looking at an object at least 20 feet (about 6 meters) away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes) can also be helpful.

Education and Awareness: Training employees in ergonomics, healthy living habits, stress management and first aid plays an important role in preventing health problems and early intervention.

Consequently, any improvements made in the workplace are important not only for employee health, but also for the health of the general public. Ensuring and maintaining a healthy work environment, in collaboration with employers, employees and health professionals, will improve the physical and mental well-being of employees and contribute to a more productive workforce.