Burnout Blamed for Nearly One in Five Sick Days as German Ergonomics Push Gathers Steam
16.06.2026 - 11:04:15 | boerse-global.de
Bielefeld – Psychische Erkrankungen now account for 17.4 percent of all sick leave in Germany, according to the latest DAK Psychreport. The figure, drawn from last year’s data, underscores a mounting workplace crisis that is driving renewed attention to ergonomic design in offices, train carriages, and even living rooms.
“Exhaustion often only becomes apparent during quiet periods like holidays – by then it is usually too late,” said Stefanie Schnier, an expert cited in the report. The warning comes as the Ergotherapie-Kongress 2026 in Bielefeld attracted roughly 2,200 professionals under the banner “Betätigung zählt” (Occupation Counts). The event highlighted the award-winning “CurriculumKit” and stressed the need to link ergonomic workplaces with preventive strategies, particularly in social and care professions.
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The practical response to such stress indicators can be seen across the seating industry. In mid-June 2026, trade press awarded the Vivadapt office chair from hjh OFFICE a “Good” overall rating (2.0), praising its price-performance ratio. The chair includes an adjustable lumbar support, 3D armrests, and seat-depth adjustment, with a maximum load of 120 kilograms. Testers noted limitations in backrest adjustability and suitability for smaller users.
At the same time, EMOOR launched its “akari” lounger on 15 June, featuring a three-point support system and a pocket-spring core designed to relieve the neck and lower back. LIVA’s Samira Lazyline collection goes further with a three-motor control, standing aid, and a “Herz-Waage-Position” (heart-balance position) that eases circulation.
Beyond hardware, philosopher Hajo Eickhoff offered a cultural perspective on ORF’s “Science Arena.” He described sitting as a democratised form of throne-sitting – distinct from the restfulness of lying down or the activity of standing. Eickhoff himself avoids chairs at home, urging people to become more conscious of a posture they rarely question.
Sustainability is also reshaping the sector. Sedus published details of its “Green Office” concept in mid-June, built on a codex focused on circular economy, durable modular systems, and recyclable materials. The trend is visible in large projects: Wuppertal-based Büroeinrichtung Stock is furnishing a call centre in Bochum. The first construction phase is due for completion in August and will include up to 120 electrically height-adjustable desks, ergonomic office chairs, and acoustic solutions.
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) offers an unusual circular-economy example. At the end of June, the company is selling decommissioned first-class seats from the 1980s in Trimbach for private use. Other components are repurposed too: train windows become facade elements in new buildings, and old ceiling lights are turned into floor lamps.
