Ergonomics Innovation Award

Ergonomics plays a crucial role in workplace health and safety, impacting employee well-being and productivity. Each year, the Institute for Health and Ergonomics (IGR) recognises outstanding contributions to ergonomic innovation by awarding the Ergonomics Innovation Prize to companies and organisations that demonstrate excellence in this field.

We are proud to announce that COBA has been awarded the Ergonomics Innovation Award 2021 for our ongoing efforts in improving workplace ergonomics through innovative product development and research.

What is the Ergonomics Innovation Award?

For the third time, the IGR has awarded this prize to companies that stand out through specific concepts, measures and products in health promotion and prevention in the workplace. The functionality and durability of the products as well as the efficiency in relation to the occupational and personal health of employees are at the forefront of the evaluation criteria.

What is the IGR?

In 2018, the ‘Interessengemeinschaft der Rückenschullehrer/-innen e. V.’ became the ‘Institut für Gesundheit und Ergonomie e. V.’ (Institute for Health and Ergonomics), a network of doctors, physiotherapists, scientists and occupational health management staff who are jointly committed to promoting occupational health.

What distinguishes COBA to be a laureate of the Ergonomics Innovation Award?

COBA receives the Ergonomics Innovation Award 2021

COBA is an innovation driver in the fight against MSDs (musculoskeletal disorders) at standing workplaces with the continuous development of products such as anti-fatigue mats. COBA also collaborates with institutions such as the Technical University of Berlin and Loughborough University to determine the stresses on employees in standing workplaces and how ergonomic workplace mats can contribute to prevention. 

These collaborations have contributed to the creation of the free e-book #StandUpForHealth.

We are honoured to be awarded the Ergonomics Innovation Prize 2021 by the IGR and look forward to continuing to contribute with our work and our products to the prevention of MSDs and thus to better health in the workplace.

Understanding the Ergonomics Innovation Award

Now in its third edition, the Ergonomics Innovation Award honours companies that introduce pioneering solutions aimed at enhancing health and safety in the workplace.

The evaluation criteria focus on:

  • The functionality and durability of ergonomic solutions
  • Their effectiveness in promoting occupational health
  • Their impact on preventing work-related conditions

By recognising advancements in ergonomic design and workplace health promotion, the award encourages companies to continue developing solutions that prioritise employee well-being.

What is the IGR?

The Institute for Health and Ergonomics (IGR) is a German organisation dedicated to improving workplace health through ergonomic research and education. Originally founded as the Interessengemeinschaft der Rückenschullehrer/-innen e. V. in 1998, the organisation evolved into the Institut für Gesundheit und Ergonomie e. V. in 2018. Today, it serves as a key network of doctors, physiotherapists, scientists, and occupational health professionals, all working together to advance workplace ergonomics.

Why Was COBA Selected for the Ergonomics Innovation Award?

At COBA, we are committed to reducing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in standing workplaces by developing innovative ergonomic solutions. Our range of anti-fatigue mats is designed to alleviate strain on workers who stand for prolonged periods, helping to reduce discomfort and fatigue.

In addition to product innovation, we actively collaborate with leading academic institutions, including the Technical University of Berlin and Loughborough University, to conduct research on the effects of standing for extended periods. These studies help us refine our solutions to better support workplace health.

One of the key outcomes of this research is the creation of our free e-book, #StandUpForHealth, which provides valuable insights into workplace ergonomics and prevention strategies.

Looking Ahead

Receiving the Ergonomics Innovation Award 2021 is a great honour, reaffirming our dedication to improving workplace health. We remain committed to developing solutions that enhance employee well-being and reduce the risks of MSDs. Through continued innovation and collaboration, we strive to make workplaces safer and healthier for everyone.

Take a look at our range of anti-fatigue mats.

If you have any questions, our experts are always happy to help.