
10-Minute Ergonomics Self-Check
The next essential building block in BGM: a structured ergonomics self-check uncovers incorrect settings – an ideal complement to risk assessments and back-health prevention.
Why the most expensive chair is useless if it's set up wrong Many companies invest in good furniture and overlook the fact that its effectiveness depends on how it's adjusted. A screen edge set too low, an incorrect seat height, an awkward mouse position – each harmless on its own, but together they're fertile ground for chronic complaints. Experience shows that a large share of the workforce has at least one critical issue they're not even aware of.
Self-checking beats a one-off consultation A self-check based on clear criteria has two advantages: it reaches everyone at once, and it trains the eye. Once someone has understood what matters, they'll correct their own setup in the future too – for example after a move or when working from home. A one-time measure thus becomes lasting self-sufficiency.
The ideal kickoff for a back-health campaign The self-check works perfectly as a first step: it makes the problem visible and creates motivation for what follows – such as short movement breaks or desk yoga. Scheduling it around Back Health Day concentrates attention and impact. Cost: virtually none, apart from ten focused minutes per person.
How to put it in place
- 1Download the BG checklist (DGUV)
- 2Distribute it to all office employees by email
- 3Set a deadline: "Complete by Friday"
- 4Collect results anonymously
- 5Identify and communicate the top 3 issues
What you need
- Effort
- under 30 min
- Cost
- Free
- Setup
- 30 min
- ✓ Free (BG material)
- ✓ Personal responsibility
- ✓ Fast implementation
- ✓ Measurable
Eligible for funding: up to €600 tax-free
As part of a structured workplace health process, this measure is tax-free under § 3 no. 34 of the German Income Tax Act (EStG) up to €600 per employee per year — BGF-Kompass supplies the process. Certified offers (e.g. from Upfit) are additionally subsidised by statutory health insurers under § 20b SGB V.
Health-insurer funding & tax: how to apply →Start this measure now
Register for free — and the measure is ready to go in your cockpit: invitation, feedback survey and appointment are already set up. First cycle, first numbers for the boss.
Start for free nowRather take a look first? To the live demo →
Contributes to
Measure the impact with
Action field
Ergonomics & Occupational Safety →A fitting occasion
Related best practices
Not sure where to start? 5-minute self-check →