Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) is a growing concern in large office environments, often emerging subtly but having profound effects on productivity, staff wellbeing, and overall business costs. At Posture People, we see firsthand how a proactive, whole-office approach to ergonomics can dramatically reduce the risks associated with RSI. Using practical experience and a broad product range, our goal is to help facilities managers and decision-makers for larger teams implement effective, scalable solutions that actually work.
Understanding RSI in the Large Office Context
RSI refers to injuries affecting muscles, nerves, and tendons caused by repetitive movements and prolonged awkward postures—something not uncommon in modern offices. The cumulative impacts in a space with 200+ employees can be staggering, from increased absenteeism to long-term healthcare claims and disengaged staff. Prevention is always better (and more affordable) than cure, especially when changes can be expertly rolled out at scale.
Workstation Assessments: The First Line of Defence
One of the simplest, most cost-effective steps is ensuring every employee receives a proper workstation assessment. This isn’t about a ‘tick box’ exercise, but rather personalised evaluations that highlight risks before they become problems. Our DSE self-assessment tools are specifically designed to help large businesses manage this process efficiently, providing you with actionable data and helping identify those most at risk for targeted intervention.
Must-Have Ergonomic Accessories for RSI Prevention
Choosing the right ergonomic accessories can make a world of difference in keeping your team healthy and productive. Here’s our selection of essentials, with specific recommendations that are proven to scale across multi-user, multi-location offices.
1. Adjustable Ergonomic Office Chairs
- Being Me Ergonomic Chair with Headrest – This fully customisable chair adapts to a wide range of body shapes and working styles, providing vital support for spine and posture. Multiple customisations mean that even in large businesses, everyone can get the comfort they deserve.
- Drumback Creation Ergonomic Office Chair – Combines sustainable design with supportive structure (lumbar/thoracic) for users spending long hours at their desks.
- Toleo Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair – Excellent breathability and dynamic support, particularly suited for busy, hot-desking environments.
2. Targeted Back and Seat Supports
- Fellowes Office Suites Mesh Back Support – Moulds to the natural curve of the spine, enhancing comfort and reducing lower back strain for chair users.
- I-Spire Lumbar Cushion – Black (Fellowes) – Provides additional memory foam comfort for those with pre-existing lumbar pain or sciatica risk.
- LEITZ Ergo Cosy Orthopaedic Seat Cushion – Perfect for relieving sitting-related pressure on the lower back and coccyx.
3. Monitor Risers for Neck and Eye Health
- Fellowes Classic TFT Rotating Monitor Riser – With seven available height settings, you can put every screen at eye level, drastically reducing neck pain risks. Built-in storage helps keep desks uncluttered, which is vital in large, shared spaces.
4. Ergonomic Keyboards, Mousepads, and Wrist Rests
- Kensington Pro Fit Keyboard – A split, sloped design uniquely encourages a more natural wrist angle. Adjustable tilt and integrated wrist rest support long typing sessions, which are a major RSI pain point.
- Kensington Dual Wireless Compact Keyboard – Supports agile and hybrid working with the flexibility to connect multiple devices wirelessly. Great for staff moving between desks or meeting rooms.
- Kensington Foam Keyboard Wrist Rest and Kensington Foam Mousepad with Wrist Rest – These essentials help cushion sensitive wrist areas and ensure neutral alignment during repetitive typing and mousing activities (prime contributors to RSI).
5. Adjustable Laptop Stands and Risers
- Leitz Ergo Adjustable Multi-Angle Laptop Stand – Lets each user instantly adjust their laptop height, tackling neck and upper back strain for staff using laptops for primary or secondary screens.
- Fellowes Breyta Laptop Riser – Especially useful in shared desk and BYOD environments, compatible with virtually all business laptops up to 15” and 4kg.
6. Bariatric and Specialist Work Chairs
- VELA Tango 300 Bariatric Work Chair – Designed to provide stability and support for all employees, ensuring inclusive ergonomics for bariatric users in your workforce.
Practical Strategies for Large Offices
Beyond just equipment, embedding good ergonomics in a large workplace requires practical strategies:
- Annual workstation audits: Use digital DSE self-assessments or schedule on-site ergonomic reviews for each staff member. Document and action findings.
- Standardised procurement: Bulk-buy ergonomic accessories for consistency and cost savings. This also makes deployments and replacements much easier to manage.
- Regular training: Host quarterly or bi-annual workshops, distribute quick-reference guides, and display posters reminding staff of how to sit, stretch, and set up.
- Scheduled breaks: Encourage or automate reminders for micro (1-2 minutes), meso (5-10 minutes), and macro (30+ minute lunch) breaks to help staff move regularly throughout the day.
- Visible management involvement: Leaders who role-model good posture and equipment use foster a company-wide ergonomic culture.
The Bottom Line: Risk Reduction & ROI
Investing in quality ergonomic solutions is an upfront cost—one that’s easily justified when you factor in the cost of reduced absenteeism, fewer work-related injuries, and the improved morale that comes from a comfortable, supportive workplace. Facilities managers who take RSI seriously are empowered to create not just safer, but also more productive and attractive offices that retain talent.
Ready to Take Action?
At Posture People, we don’t just supply ergonomic products, we support you every step of the way, from DSE assessments to tailored product recommendations. If you’re looking to equip a large office, or need expert advice on rolling out a comprehensive RSI prevention programme across your business, contact us for a bespoke conversation.
Want to see our full range of ergonomic accessories and furniture? Explore our shop for products that truly make a difference, or get in touch for advice tailored to the size, needs, and culture of your office. Let’s help your team work comfortably and efficiently, every day.