Workplace Safety & Ergonomics for Hybrid Teams

Written by Kristine Keykal, CEO of AdvantageHealth Corporation

As hybrid work becomes the new normal, organizations face a unique challenge: keeping employees safe, comfortable, and productive across both office and home environments. While traditional workplace safety programs often focus on the office or job site, today’s reality requires a more flexible and holistic approach.

Why Ergonomics Matters in a Hybrid World

Poor ergonomics can lead to discomfort, reduced productivity, and even long-term injuries such as back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, or eye strain. When employees shift between home and office, these risks can increase—especially if home setups aren’t designed with ergonomics in mind. A few small adjustments, however, can make a big difference in how employees feel and perform.

Creating a Safe & Supportive Workspace

Whether at home or in the office, employees should have the tools and knowledge to set up their workspace properly. Encourage these best practices:

• Posture Check: Sit with feet flat on the floor, knees at a 90-degree angle, and shoulders relaxed.

• Monitor Height: Screens should be at eye level to reduce neck and eye strain.

• Chair Support: Invest in ergonomic chairs or use cushions/lumbar support at home.

• Keyboard & Mouse Placement: Keep wrists straight and elbows close to the body at a 90-degree angle.

• Lighting: Reduce glare and ensure adequate lighting to avoid eye strain.

Safety Beyond Ergonomics

Workplace safety for hybrid teams goes beyond desk setup. Encourage employees to:

• Take Microbreaks: Short breaks every 30–60 minutes for stretching or walking can reduce fatigue.

• Move Throughout the Day: Encourage walking meetings, stretching, or standing while on calls.

• Practice Cyber Safety: Remind employees about secure networks, password protection, and safeguarding sensitive data while working remotely.

• Emergency Preparedness: Ensure employees know basic safety practices at home, such as fire safety and safe storage of cords and equipment.

How Employers Can Support Hybrid Safety

Organizations play a critical role in ensuring employees are safe wherever they work. Consider offering:

• Virtual ergonomic assessments or online self-assessment tools

• Stipends for home office equipment (chairs, standing desks, monitors)

• Wellness challenges that encourage movement and healthy habits

• Educational resources on ergonomics, stretching, and home safety

• Regular check-ins to identify and address safety concerns early

Building a Culture of Care

Promoting workplace safety and ergonomics isn’t just about preventing injuries—it’s about showing employees that their wellbeing matters. When organizations prioritize comfort, health, and flexibility, employees feel supported, engaged, and better equipped to do their best work.

Partner With AdvantageHealth

At AdvantageHealth, we help organizations design workplace wellness and safety programs tailored to today’s hybrid teams. From ergonomic assessments and training sessions to wellness campaigns and ongoing support, we’ll help you create a culture where employees thrive—in the office and at home.

✨ A safe, ergonomic workplace is the foundation of a productive and healthy workforce. Invest in it, and your employees will thank you for years to come.

About Us: At AdvantageHealth Corporation, we specialize in creating comprehensive wellness programs and managing onsite fitness centers that support every aspect of employee wellbeing. Our mission is simple: to help organizations build healthier, more engaged, and more resilient teams through whole-person wellness strategies that work.

Schedule a free consultation with Kristine Keykal, CEO and Co-Owner to review your employee wellness program:

Email Kristine at kkeykal@advantagehealth.com to get started or call 612.823.4470 (select option “1”).

Let Kristine Keykal, M.P.H, co-founder of AdvantageHealth with over 25 years of experience, consult with you on your employee wellness program.

Since 2001, Minnesota-based AdvantageHealth has been delivering award-winning employee wellbeing programs and fitness center design & management throughout the U.S.