Increased Productivity Through Ergonomics

Ergonomics is an important factor to consider when choosing cleaning equipment. Why? Because when employees move comfortably and freely, cleaning businesses can see increases in productivity and efficiency.

According to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), ergonomics leads to cost savings because of fewer injuries and workman’s comp claims, more productive employees, increased morale and reduced absenteeism.

One cleaning tool that can significantly impact ergonomics is the vacuum—specifically regarding ease of use, mobility and comfort. When selecting an ergonomically sound vacuum, there are a few things to consider.

Think about beginning with backpack vacuums because they require less than half the energy to clean an area compared to traditional uprights. Many factors contribute to these vacuums being more efficient, and most relate to comfort. Regardless of what brand you choose, a well-designed backpack vacuum should:

• Distribute weight evenly on the hips as opposed to the back
• Feature breathable fabric for comfort
• Allow for increased range of motion

Each of these characteristics depends on the vacuum having an adjustable harness prioritizing a customizable fit. An example of an ideal harness system is the reimagined FlexFit^® featured on the ProTeam® GoFit^TM Series from Emerson®.

Inspired by hiking backpacks, the FlexFit offers appropriate weight distribution and easy adjustment which are key to comfort. “With a tool-free design, getting a perfect fit has never been easier,” said Greg Wilsey, ProTeam Project Engineer. “Every harness touchpoint for fitting is colored purple for visibility and numbered by order of operations. Getting a good fit has never been this easy.”

The GoFit Series harness is one of many comfort-focused features. “We set out to design a harness built around our users with increased comfort and functionality,” said Wilsey. “The new GoFit series is the most ergonomically sound backpack vacuum we have ever created.”

The new GoFit backpack vacuum series brings more comfort, customization, and flexibility to commercial cleaning. To learn more or to schedule a demo, visit proteam.emerson.com/gofit.