What are the benefits of ergonomically optimized workstations in the cleanroom?

An ergonomically designed workplace in cleanrooms has a positive effect on the mental and physical health of employees. This helps to prevent poor postures and stressful as well as process-endangering movements. (Source: item)

To ensure the required purity in the cleanroom, the equipment must meet certain criteria. The filters and fans used in filter fan units and laminar flow boxes generate a turbulence-free displacement flow and reduce the particle concentration to a minimum. (Source: item)

item offers a modular system for pure production, providing numerous options for standards-compliant setup. The electrically height-adjustable workbenches, for example, enable cleanroom-compatible, ergonomic production up to ISO Class 5. (Source: item)

Materials and tools should be placed directly within the worker's reach to ensure optimal access. Swivel arms provide perfect support, as the employee can adjust them individually. (Source: item)

A holistic view of the workplace is essential in order to achieve ergonomic improvements. That item succeeds in this is demonstrated by the award of the independent quality seal "tested & recommended" from the Healthy Back Campaign (AGR). (Source: item)

Working in cleanrooms is subject to numerous regulations. The goal is to protect highly sensitive components as effectively as possible and ensure a smooth production process. The design of the rooms is also of particular importance. But what does the optimal layout of cleanrooms look like, and what role does ergonomics play in this? Many aspects must be considered to not only increase productivity within the company and support employees optimally but also to create significant competitive advantages.

Production in cleanrooms is governed by strict rules and regulations. The primary objective is to absolutely avoid contamination of products by particles and microorganisms. Therefore, individuals working in the cleanroom are expected to strictly adhere to behavioral rules and internalize them. Depending on the process, there are established regulations regarding work clothing and a defined sequence for putting on the attire. In addition to the correct fit of hairnets, masks, coveralls, shoes, and gloves, appropriate behavior in the cleanroom is also essential. For example, hectic and uncontrolled movements should be avoided to prevent unnecessary stirring up of particles. Regular training sessions are recommended to sensitize staff to the dangers in the cleanroom and maintain a consistently high level of manufacturing quality. Even the smallest negligence can have significant consequences: contamination of semiconductor, medical, and pharmaceutical products can render them unusable and increase the rejection rate. But not only the behavior of employees, but also the equipment of the rooms is fundamentally important for maintaining quality standards.

Specific requirements for workplaces in cleanrooms

If processes or facilities are changed, the entire workflow must be reviewed to guarantee compliance with the required standards. The air cleanliness of the rooms is classified according to DIN EN ISO 14644-1 based on the particle concentration present, divided into nine ISO classes. The lower the class number, the higher the cleanliness requirements. For example, the permissible number of particles with a diameter of 0.1 µm per m³ is 10 for Class 1 and 1,000,000 for Class 6. To ensure the required purity, the equipment of cleanrooms must meet certain criteria. "The top priority is preventing particle deposits," says Marius Geibel, Product Management Team Leader and Workplace Expert at item. "Therefore, horizontal surfaces are ideally avoided, and closed surfaces are created." Using filters and fans in filter fan units and laminar flow boxes generates a turbulence-free displacement airflow, reducing particle concentration to a minimum. The design of workstations within the cleanroom should support this effect. For example, triangular shelving supports are used to prevent dirt buildup, or other solutions that enable low-turbulence airflow. With its modular system for pure production, item offers numerous application possibilities. For instance, electrically height-adjustable work tables from item enable cleanroom-compatible, ergonomic production up to ISO Class 5. Aluminum profile covers ensure closed surfaces and make the tables particularly easy to clean. "All materials in the cleanroom, such as chairs, tables, and other objects, must meet the high standards required for cleanrooms," explains Marius Geibel. "This is especially challenging when components move and generate friction, which can cause particles to detach."

How important is ergonomic design in cleanrooms?

Even in traditional manual production, an ergonomically optimized workplace has its justification. Targeted measures can physically and psychologically relieve employees. In the long run, this can protect health and increase productivity. A modular system offers particular advantages here. It allows the workplace to be quickly and individually adapted to different employees and changing process conditions. Height-adjustable tables and chairs enable a dynamic switch between standing and sitting or optimal adjustment to different body sizes. Materials and tools should be placed directly within the worker’s reach to ensure ideal accessibility. Swivel arms provide perfect support, as they can be individually adjusted by the employee. An ergonomically optimized work environment also offers clear benefits in cleanrooms. When tools and materials are optimally arranged, unnecessary movements can be avoided, which could lead to unwanted air turbulence. "An important aspect is also employee retention, which such ergonomically optimized workplaces can promote," explains Marius Geibel. "A perfectly designed work environment is also a sign of appreciation and, therefore, especially in today’s times, an important factor for employees." Often, they have to perform delicate tasks in the cleanroom environment. Maximum concentration is required. However, this can only be maintained if the work environment allows it and supports the employee in their workflow. Proper lighting also plays a crucial role. Harmonious lighting must meet the needs of both the employee and the visual task to be performed. Ideally, the lighting is optimally directed at the work surface and provides uniform illumination. Harsh or overlapping shadows should be avoided. The light should neither flicker nor have an unpleasant color temperature, as this can negatively affect productivity. A holistic view of the workplace is therefore essential to achieve ergonomic improvements. That item succeeds in this is demonstrated by the award of the independent quality seal "tested & recommended" from the Aktion Gesunder Rücken (AGR).

Conclusion: numerous reasons for more ergonomics at the workplace

A workplace in cleanrooms designed according to ergonomic principles has a positive effect – both on the perception and thus the mental health of employees and on their physical fitness. Misalignments and stressful or process-endangering movements can be avoided. Unnecessary air turbulence is prevented from the outset. At the same time, concentration, motivation, and efficiency increase, which can significantly impact economic efficiency. With an ergonomically optimized workplace, the employer not only secures the long-term workforce but also gains a potentially decisive advantage in winning the "war for talent."