In a significant step towards improving workplace ergonomics, IKEA has deployed 400+ exoskeletons across 14 countries, marking a major milestone in its commitment to creating a better everyday life – not only for customers, but for its co-workers too.
“At IKEA, our co-workers are at the core of everything we do, and our ultimate goal is to ensure that work contributes to a healthy and fulfilling life at home”
– Ulrika Biesèrt, Chief People and Culture Officer at IKEA Retail (Ingka Group)
The innovative wearable device, developed by a division of German-based Ottobock, the world leader in prosthetics, is designed to reduce physical strain on workers during tasks such as lifting, carrying, and other repetitive movements. The rollout highlights the IKEA commitment to prioritizing the health and safety of its global workforce while adapting to increasing customer demands.
Addressing Workplace Challenges with Innovation
While automation has alleviated some manual tasks involving heavy lifting for workers, IKEA has continued to seek innovative ways to enhance workplace ergonomics. This drive led to the exploration of exoskeleton technology, which has now become an essential part of IKEA fulfilment operations.
“Our collaboration with SUITX by Ottobock is a testament of how IKEA continues to invest in its people’s wellbeing,” says Marcus Baumgartner, Global Head of Fulfilment & Services, for IKEA Retail (Ingka Group). “Exoskeletons aim to minimize the negative impact of physical workload and fatigue on our co-workers’ health. Thus, ensuring better quality of life both in and out of work, including reducing strains and giving our co-workers more energy after shifts.”
Key Benefits for Workers
Through biochemical energy redistribution, exoskeletons are designed to redistribute forces within the body. They capture and store kinetic energy generated during movement and release it when needed, providing support to specific body regions. The introduction of exoskeletons is already showing tangible benefits:
- Reduced Physical Strain: Mechanical support reduces stress on muscles and joints, particularly during heavy lifting. One IKEA worker shared, “Thanks to the exoskeleton, I still have energy left to lift and play with my kids after a work shift.”
- Enhanced Safety: The devices significantly lower the risk of musculoskeletal injuries. According to David Duwe, Vice President of SUITX at Ottobock Europe, “User posture improved by up to 65% over several weeks, based on daily sensor measurements. Knees and legs are used more often with a stable, straight back, reducing strain on the lower back and spine.”
- A More Inclusive Workplace: Exoskeletons make tasks more accessible, fostering a more diverse workforce and creating ergonomic working conditions that appeal to potential workers.
A Global Movement
With exoskeletons already in use across 14 countries, IKEA is set to expand the program further, with India, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Japan, and China joining soon.
To identify, and implement these solutions effectively, the company needed to think collectively and collaboratively. ‘’We are committed to embracing cooperation to make the workplace better for co-workers who are providing great furnishing solutions for our customers,” says Peter Ac, Development Network Leader, at Inter IKEA.
Building a Better Everyday Life
The milestone of 400 exoskeletons is just the beginning of the IKEA journey towards enhancing workplace safety and health. By integrating cutting-edge technology into its operations, IKEA is not only addressing today’s challenges but also setting the standard for a healthier, more ergonomic future in the workplace. Stay tuned as IKEA continues to implement innovative solutions that support its global co-worker community.
Ulrika Biesèrt, Chief People and Culture Officer at IKEA Retail (Ingka Group), explained: “At IKEA, our co-workers are at the core of everything we do, and our ultimate goal is to ensure that work contributes to a healthy and fulfilling life at home.”
About Ingka Group:
With IKEA retail operations on 31 markets, Ingka Group is the largest IKEA retailer and represents about 90% of IKEA retail sales. It is a strategic partner to develop and innovate the IKEA business and help define common IKEA strategies. Ingka Group owns and operates IKEA sales channels under franchise agreements with Inter IKEA Systems B.V. It has three business areas: IKEA Retail, Ingka Investments and Ingka Centres. Read more on www.Ingka.com.
About SUITX by Ottobock
Ottobock, based in Germany, has more than 100 years of experience in orthopedic technology and brings invaluable expertise in biomechanics to the table. With over 9,000 employees worldwide, the health technology company empowers people in 135 countries to live their lives to the fullest. Ottobock provides solutions and services in the fields of prosthetics, orthotics, neuromobility and patient care.
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