Wow Ergonomics

What happens when HR stops being about policies and starts being about people?

In this episode of Wow Ergonomics, host Graham Coath is joined by Mat Livsey, founder of Black Ink HR, for a wide-ranging conversation about why so many organisations still get people management wrong—and what better looks like.

From the changing role of HR and behavioural science to recruitment, leadership, hybrid working and AI, Graham and Mat explore why treating people as individuals rather than job titles could be one of the biggest competitive advantages a business can have.

They discuss:

• Why prevention is almost always better than cure.
• The reputation problem HR has—and how it can be changed.
• Behavioural science in recruitment and why skills alone aren't enough.
• Why accidental managers struggle without the right support.
• The future of work, AI and what businesses should really be planning for.
• Why there is no such thing as a universal "cheat sheet" for managing people.
• The importance of understanding individuals, not just policies.

Along the way, Graham and Mat also discuss everything from generational change and flexible working to why the best HR adds measurable value to a business rather than simply keeping it out of trouble.

If you're interested in ergonomics, workplace wellbeing, leadership, people strategy or simply building organisations where people can do their best work, this is a conversation packed with practical insight and thoughtful discussion.

Listen now and discover why understanding people might be the smartest business decision you make.

In this episode of WOW Ergonomics, hosts Graham Coath and Steven Howe are joined by returning guests Paul Skinner and Clare Henson-Bowen for a wide-ranging and thought-provoking conversation about absenteeism, presenteeism and the changing realities of modern work.

As organisations continue to navigate hybrid working, AI, productivity pressures and evolving workplace expectations, the discussion explores what really happens when employees are physically present but mentally, emotionally or physically struggling.

Drawing on expertise in ergonomics, occupational health and workplace wellbeing, the panel discuss:

• The hidden cost of presenteeism in modern organisations
• Why “being at work” does not always mean someone is truly functioning well
• The impact of workplace culture and management styles on wellbeing
• Why trust between managers and employees matters more than ever
• How hybrid and home working have changed attitudes to sickness and productivity
• The growing role of AI and automation in workplace stress and disengagement
• The difference between measuring output and measuring impact
• Why good communication and emotional intelligence are becoming critical workplace skills

The conversation also touches on disability inclusion, reasonable adjustments, workplace assessments, leadership culture, and how businesses can better support people before problems lead to long-term absences.

A candid and insightful discussion for anyone interested in workplace wellbeing, ergonomics, leadership and the future of work.

Featuring:
Graham Coath
Steven Howe
Paul Skinner
Clare Henson-Bowen

Graham Coath and Steven Howe are joined by Fiona Seath from BackInAction and Alison Thomson (The Safety Elf) for a focused conversation on DSE assessments for women in the workplace, and what meaningful workplace wellbeing really looks like.Workplace assessments and DSE provision have traditionally been built around standard models.But "standard" does not always mean "suitable".Women’s experiences at work are not one-dimensional.From physical differences and equipment design to hormonal changes, life stages, and the realities of balancing work and life, there are layers often overlooked in traditional assessment approaches.This conversation will explore where current DSE practices may fall short and what organisations can do to better support women in a practical, informed, and sustainable way.Topics will include:How well do current DSE assessments account for women’s needs?Where are organisations getting it right, and where are they missing the mark?The role of ergonomics in supporting long-term wellbeing for womenHow life stages (including menopause) should influence workplace supportMoving from compliance-based assessments to meaningful, personalised supportThis session is not about box-ticking or generic advice.It is about taking a closer look at how workplace design, assessment and culture can better reflect the people they are meant to support.

With Graham Coath & Steven Howe
Guests: Andrew Shepherd (Flokk) & Oliver Jones (Back Care Solutions)

In this episode of Wow Ergonomics, Graham Coath and Steven Howe take a deep dive into one of the most misunderstood pieces of workplace equipment: the operator chair.

Joined by Andrew Shepherd from Flokk and Oliver Jones from Back Care Solutions, the conversation moves beyond “it goes up and down and spins around” and into what really matters when it comes to seating design, compliance, posture, and performance.

From myths about 90-degree sitting to the debate around armrests, lumbar support and movement, this episode explores why buying “the best ergonomic chair” isn’t just about features or price tags. It’s about understanding the person, the task and the environment.

The discussion covers:

• Why most people just ask for a “desk chair”

• The difference between budget seating and properly designed ergonomic solutions

• The reality behind lumbar support and pelvic positioning

• Why sitting still is the real problem

• The impact of workplace culture on movement and wellbeing

• Control room seating and high-performance environments

• How design standards and anthropometrics shape modern chairs

There’s also a look at how AI is affecting working patterns and whether technology is freeing people from desks — or chaining them to them more tightly.

If you’ve ever wondered whether your chair is helping you work — or quietly working against you — this episode will change how you think about what you sit on every day.

Because ergonomics isn’t about finding the “perfect posture”.

It’s about fitting the task to the person — not the other way round.

When I ask a simple question...“What comes to mind when you hear ‘workplace assessment’?”…I don't get one clear answer.I get lots.Some think it is a skills appraisal.Some thought I meant DSE (Display Screen Equipment).Some thought it was ergonomics.Some thought it was those mandatory workplace videos followed by a multiple-choice test.One comment really stuck with me:“Honestly? I have no idea.The only assessment I’ve ever had was a one-page questionnaire during Covid.No measurements. No photos. Just: do you have a chair, a desk… or are you working from the sofa?”Others shared that they’d never come across ergonomic assessments at all, despite them being a legal requirement in the UK.And that’s the problem.We’re using the same words to describe very different things.No wonder employees are confused.No wonder employers are nervous.No wonder things get missed.So on 26th January at 2 pm, we’re tackling this head-on.WOW Ergonomics LiveOn LinkedIn & YouTubeHosted by Graham Coath and Steven Howe, joined by:Mark Walker (Think Posture)Andy Pirie (Ergochair)We’ll be unpacking:• What a workplace assessment actually is.• Are DSE and ergonomic assessments the same thing?• What employees should reasonably expect.• When a desk assessment isn’t enough?• How hybrid, remote work — even digital nomadism — changes the picture• What HSE guidance really says (not just what people assume)This isn’t about box-ticking.It’s about clarity, safety, wellbeing and doing the right thing, properly.If you’ve ever been unsure what you’re offering, what you're asking for, or what you're responsible for…

Closing Thoughts of 2025: Reflections on Ergonomics, AI, and Social Media's Impact on CommunicationIn this final episode of Wow Ergonomics for 2025, our hosts are joined by Stephen and guest Guy Osmond. They reflect on the passing year and Guy's 50 years of work experience, and discuss pressing topics such as the disruptive global geopolitical climate and its effects on business and personal interest in politics.

The conversation also delves into the state of social media, its impact, the nature of contemporary political discourse, and the algorithm-driven echo chambers that shape public opinion. They touch upon the ergonomics of communication and how organisations can better support individual employees, especially in the context of AI's growing role in the workplace.

The hosts underscore the importance of considering individual needs in workplace settings and address the evolving concept of work in light of recent technological advancements and societal changes.

The episode concludes with a hint at a new format for 2026, promising monthly super shows with lively debates and more guests.

This week on Wow Ergonomics, Graham and Steven dive straight into the realities of modern working life — illness, pressure, tech frustrations, workplace culture, parenting chaos, and the ever-shifting meaning of “wellbeing at work.” And joining them for the ride is the brilliant Lauren Holmes, of Perfect Support, who shines a light on what organisations often miss when it comes to supporting their people.Expect conversations about:Why sickness levels are at a 15-year highWhether working from home has changed how (and when) we “push through”The hidden mental health pressures employees are carryingParenting, school calls, and the real-life interruptions that shape working daysHow tech can both help and completely overwhelmWhy wellbeing and ergonomics must be treated togetherThe massive gap between frontline experience and leadership assumptionsWhy managers need emotional intelligence as much as any system or processLauren brings honest, grounded insights on mental health, neurodivergence, grief, loss, change, and the support employees desperately need — but often don’t know exists. Graham and Steven explore how organisations can rethink culture, conversation, and the messy realities people face long before they sit at a desk.This episode is for anyone interested in workplace wellbeing, ergonomics, culture change, or simply understanding people better and how we can all work in ways that are more human, more supportive, and far less chaotic.

Ergonomics and Humour: Budget Anticipation, Chairs, and Crazy ConversationsIn this lively episode, we kick off by discussing the much-anticipated upcoming budget and the endless chatter surrounding it.

Our hosts dive into humorous insights about taxes, budget briefcases, Boris Johnson's Peppa Pig speech mishap, and more.

Paul Skinner, the guest for the day, joins the hosts to explore the importance of ergonomic chairs, fitting them correctly, and overcoming common user errors. From discussing adjustable foams to debating how chairs should fit different body sizes, the conversation takes a fun yet informative turn. The hosts also touch on screen setups, desk ergonomics, and even the distraction caused by mobile phones in the workplace. Lastly, they playfully talk about engaging apps, confess their favourite music while on the road, and propose a marketing idea involving croissants with every chair purchase.

An episode packed with light-hearted moments, ergonomic insights, and delightful banter.

Mastering Workplace Ergonomics: Proactive Tips for Healthier OfficesWelcome to the latest episode of Wow Ergonomics! This Friday, we're back to discuss the importance of proactive ergonomics in the workplace. Join Graham, Steven, and special guest Niamh Pentony as we explore how to support employees more effectively during challenging economic times. Discover insights on music podcasts, the life of a score writer, and the challenges of DSE (Display Screen Equipment) assessments. Niamh shares her experiences with in-person and virtual assessments in Ireland, emphasising the necessity of regular, proactive ergonomic evaluations to prevent larger, more costly problems down the road. We also explore practical tips for configuring office equipment correctly, the significance of ergonomic education, and how to maintain a healthy and productive work environment. You can tune in for an engaging discussion on the essentials of workplace ergonomics and the benefits of investing in quality products and training. Don't miss out on key takeaways that could help transform your office into a healthier, more productive space!

Workplace Ergonomics: Insights, Solutions, and Health AwarenessWelcome to another episode of Wow Ergonomics! Join hosts Graham Co and Steven Howe, alongside special guest Victoria Whitehouse, as they delve into a comprehensive discussion on ergonomics in the workplace. This episode covers a myriad of topics ranging from the importance of ergonomic equipment and DSE (Display Screen Equipment) regulations to the evolving nature of workspaces and the critical link between physical health and productivity. Victoria shares her insights from over 30 years of helping organizations meet DSE regulations, stressing the benefits of ergonomic solutions in improving well-being and performance. The conversation also touches upon the dynamic changes brought about by COVID-19, the need for breaks, and the psychological benefits of physical activity.

Whether you're an employer looking to enhance workspace ergonomics or an employee seeking to improve your work habits, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice. Tune in to learn how small adjustments can lead to significant improvements in workplace health and productivity.