The 2026 Ergonomics Forecast: What Employers Need to Prepare For

Niamh Pentony

Niamh Pentony

MSc. Applied Ergonomics

2025 brought hybrid headaches, overloaded inboxes and more than a few makeshift home-office setups. But 2026 won’t wait — and the organisations who prepare now will protect their people and their productivity.

In this episode, I break down the key ergonomic trends employers need to know for 2026, including rising MSD risks, neurodiversity needs, compliance pressure, and the shift toward proactive, whole-person ergonomics.

If you’re responsible for staff wellbeing, compliance or hybrid workforce planning, this episode is for you.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Why hybrid working remains a major ergonomic challenge
  • How musculoskeletal issues are evolving — and why they’re costing organisations more
  • What “whole-person ergonomics” looks like in 2026
  • How neurodiversity is shaping workplace setup and design
  • Why reactive ergonomics will take a back seat to proactive planning
  • What emerging ergonomic technologies mean for employers
  • The practical steps every organisation should take before January

Key Takeaways

  • More absence, more sick-pay obligations, and higher HR workload create real cost pressures
  • Employees expect comprehensive ergonomic support — physical, cognitive and environmental
  • Early intervention and proactive assessment programmes prevent long-term issues
  • Compliance expectations around hybrid and home-working setups are increasing
  • Investing in ergonomics improves wellbeing, productivity and retention

👉 Full blog post: https://boyneergonomics.ie/the-2026-ergonomics-forecast-what-employers-need-to-prepare-for/

💬 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going!

Have a question, a tip, or an “aha!” moment from this episode?

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🙌 Thank You for Listening!

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 Subscribe for more evidence-based ergonomics insights, and if you’re planning your 2026 ergonomics strategy, get in touch — I’d love to help.

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