RemoteWorker, a resource website and online job board connecting job seekers with remote job opportunities, has called a disfigured 3D model that purports to be what remote workers in the future will look like a “plainly untrue myth.” The model, dubbed “Anna,” was created by a UK furniture retailer as a suggestion of what remote workers who don’t have their own dedicated workspace at home could look like in the future. Images of the model have since gone viral, sparking outrage from remote workers.
“There’s no scientific evidence that anyone will start to look like this model just because they work from home,” says Joseph Boll, RemoteWorker CEO. “In fact, if anything, remote workers are less likely to become like this because they have more flexibility to go to the gym or take walks during the day than office workers who are often stuck at their desks with little flexibility to go anywhere.”
Anyone who does not mind their posture and make an effort to live a healthy lifestyle can fall prey to ill health — whether they work remotely or in a physical office — and sitting at a desk for long periods of time is harmful regardless. However, the 3D model does raise concerns about making sure all employees — not just remote workers — take care of their wellbeing. Anyone who works on a computer should be mindful to do things like get up and stretch throughout the day, maintain good posture and follow ergonomic standards for the best outcome.
Remote workers are also in a unique position when it comes to how they work. The original creators of the 3D model allegedly created her based on research from the University of Leeds that found only around 33 percent of remote workers in the UK have a dedicated workspace at home. Most office workers have a workspace with a desk and chair, and one that hopefully follows ergonomic guidelines. On the other hand, many businesses do not inquire into their remote staff’s home workspace. Instead, workers have the freedom to work however they please just as long as they get their work done.
“It’s a message that could have perhaps been presented in a better way, but it can serve as a reminder for remote workers that it’s their responsibility to curate a healthy workspace that allows for good physical and mental health,” said Boll. “RemoteWorker recommends a dedicated workspace that is separate from where you relax so that you can better manage unplugging at the end of the day, taking periodic breaks throughout the day and having a workspace that follows ergonomic guidelines.”
