The concept of "workplace ergonomics" is foreign to many businesses, but is important to employee health and satisfaction, according to Sue Peterson, M.S., manager of employee health and wellness at Microsoft Corp., Redmond, Wash.

Applying concepts in ergonomics does not have to be complicated or expensive, Peterson said. She suggested several simple tips for making the workplace safer and more pleasant, such as:

• Give basic healthy living tips to employees
• Have healthy snacks in the staff lounge instead of sweet treats
• Provide as much adjustable work equipment as possible, such as shelving, chairs and desktops
• Adjust lighting in office settings to reduce computer screen glare

Simple measures can help keep employees more comfortable, and in turn, more productive at their jobs, Peterson said. "No one likes to be hurting at work. If you feel better, you work more effectively."

With the influx of constant communication and longer hours spent on the job, worksite stress is more likely to occur than ever, and should be reduced as much as possible through proper ergonomics to help prevent burnout and improve morale, Peterson said she also emphasized the importance of overall health and the role it can play on the job.

Address: The American College of Sports Medicine, P.O. Box 1440, Indianapolis, IN 46206-1440; (317) 637-9200, www.acsm.org.