What's new in ergonomics? Keytools wanted to know. So we sent our General Manager, Simon Colebrook, to the biggest ergonomics conference in the world to find out.

The 14th Annual National Ergonomics Conference and Exposition (or Ergo Expo!) was held at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. This is a huge get-together for world-leaders in ergonomics, including 12,000 of the biggest organisations in the world.

What what was the Ergo Expo about? We were most interested in some of the trends in the US and how that could have an impact in the UK. We were particularly interested in any new products on the market, and any new angles which we can adopt in the UK.

We also wanted to meet up with existing suppliers. It was great to meet up with colleagues who we have a long relationship with, such as Goldtouch.

How is America different to the UK?

America is at the forefront of ergonomics. This is mainly due to a system in the States called Workers Comp. This is a compensation scheme for staff enabling them to claim against injury at work. This includes Musculoskeletal injuries such as Repetitive Strain Injury. Subsequently, all companies are trying to minimise the cost of compensation and why ergonomics is such a big industry in America.

"Surprisingly, 20% of working Americans are aged 65 or over... Although there are cultural differences between America and the UK, experts suggest that this trend will be replicated in the UK. "

Any implications for us in the UK?

I learnt that, surprisingly, 20% of working Americans are aged 65 or over. This has huge implications on the workplace; visual impairment and physical challenges like hand tremors and RSI to name a few. Although there are cultural differences between America and the UK, experts suggest that this trend will be replicated in the UK.

We are already being told by the government that the number of pensioners in the UK are growing. People are living longer and working past retirement. Now is a good time to start addressing these issues.

What was the highlight of the show?

There are a number of new products that Keytools are very interested in offering our customers. There are some new Goldtouch products including a travel keyboard - watch this space!

This year's show also featured the Attendees' Choice Awards. These were products thought to be the most likely to increase productivity and profitability, while improving workplace health and safety. Winners included Goldtouch Go! Travel Keyboard by Goldtouch and the Herman Miller Embody chair.