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Apr 15, 2025 • 7 min read
How a tailored ergonomic assessment helped Creating Links enhance staff comfort, posture, and overall workplace wellbeing.
Written by: Ken Escovidal
Since transitioning to Creating Links in the early 2000s and becoming a registered Foster Care provider in 2013, the organisation has grown into a trusted provider of a wide range of community services, including Disability Support, Child and Family Services, Foster Care Support, and Financial Counselling.
Recently, I had the opportunity to deliver ergonomic training for the dedicated team at Creating Links, a leading not-for-profit multicultural community service provider based in South-West Sydney.
With over 50 years of service to the community, Creating Links has built a strong legacy grounded in care, resilience, and inclusion. The organisation began in 1972 as the Bankstown Community Services Co-operative, founded by a small group of passionate locals who shared a vision for stronger, safer communities.
What stood out during my visit was how clearly that mission extends inward. Creating Links is just as committed to supporting the wellbeing of its staff as it is to the communities it serves, and that commitment was evident in every aspect of the training experience.
One of the most valuable aspects of this workplace ergonomic assessment was observing the variety of desk setups employees had developed to suit their daily routines. By spending time at each workstation, I was able to offer personalised education on ideal ergonomic setups, using neutral body positioning as a foundation to build from.
Neutral posture, where the spine is aligned, the shoulders are relaxed, and the elbows, hips, and knees are all positioned at roughly 90 degrees, helps reduce strain on muscles and joints. This positioning also improves circulation and reduces fatigue, making it easier for employees to stay focused and comfortable throughout the day. During the session, I emphasised simple, practical steps such as adjusting chair height, screen position, and keyboard or mouse placement to support natural, balanced movement.
For teams who want to self-assess their setups, I often recommend using this ergonomic checklist as a starting point.
Two standout moments from the session were working with the HR Advisor and the receptionist. With the HR Advisor, we identified a few simple adjustments that could enhance wrist alignment and reduce neck tension, resulting in a more comfortable and supportive setup. Perhaps the biggest transformation, however, was at the front desk with the receptionist. We reconfigured her setup to support a more neutral posture by adjusting the monitor height, keyboard and mouse position, and even her chair settings. The difference was immediately noticeable, and I was happy to receive such positive feedback afterward. She reported feeling more supported, more comfortable, and more aware of how to maintain that posture throughout the day.
These small but meaningful adjustments highlight just how impactful a well-planned setup can be. For teams wanting to better understand what an ergonomic assessment involves and how it contributes to a healthier workspace, this guide to enhancing workspaces through ergonomic assessments offers a practical overview of what to expect and why it matters.
Ultimately, the benefits of a well-set-up workstation go beyond just comfort. Workplace ergonomics plays a vital role in injury prevention, particularly for people who spend long hours at their desks. Proper positioning reduces the risk of musculoskeletal injuries, supports mental focus, and helps employees feel more energised and valued in their roles. It’s a small investment of time and knowledge that pays off in long-term wellbeing.
I’m grateful to the team at Creating Links for welcoming this training and showing such genuine interest in improving workplace ergonomics. Their passion for staff wellbeing and commitment to continuous improvement is inspiring, and it reflects the care they extend to the diverse communities they support.
At AusRehab, we provide tailored workplace ergonomic assessments that promote comfort, prevent injury, and enhance productivity. Organisations like Creating Links are leading the way, and our ergonomic assessments are here to help others do the same.
Explore how you can bring better ergonomics into your workplace today.
Let’s build safer, healthier, and more productive work environments, one desk at a time.
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Ken Escovidal
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