ErgoSanté

ErgoSanté is a French company operating in the workplace health and ergonomics market, with a focus on designing, manufacturing, and distributing solutions to prevent musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and maintain employment for individuals with disabilities. The company was founded in 2013 by Samuel Corgne, who, after a personal experience with long-term hospitalization for back pain, was inspired to create a business that protects workers' health. Corgne's background includes studies in mechanical engineering and a stint at Michelin, where he felt the human aspect of work was neglected, solidifying his mission to prioritize employee well-being.

Headquartered in Anduze, in the Cévennes region of France, ErgoSanté is deeply rooted in the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE). It operates as an "Entreprise Adaptée" (Adapted Enterprise), a status granted in 2019, meaning a significant portion of its production workforce consists of employees with disabilities. This model creates a virtuous cycle where individuals with disabilities manufacture products that assist other workers. The company serves a wide range of sectors, including services, industry, logistics, and agri-food, with clients like SNCF, Louis Vuitton, Airbus, Sanofi, and Ford. Revenue is generated through the sale of its products, which are distributed nationally and internationally. Following Brexit, the company relocated its production from the UK to France and in October 2023, opened a production facility in Wilmington, North Carolina, aiming to significantly expand its US market share.

ErgoSanté's product portfolio is extensive, covering solutions for both seated and standing employees. For office environments, it offers a wide range of ergonomic chairs, height-adjustable desks, and accessories such as specialized keyboards and mice. A key offering is its line of non-motorized, passive exoskeletons, developed under the HAPO brand. These lightweight physical assistance devices are designed to reduce physical strain and prevent injury, not to augment human strength. The range includes models providing support for the back (HAPO), shoulders (HAPO FRONT), and neck (HAPO NECK). The company's first exoskeleton, the Shiva-Exo, was co-developed with SNCF in 2016. ErgoSanté distinguishes itself with a unique approach of lending recommended equipment for free trials. The company also emphasizes a circular economy model through its EcoSiège program, which reconditions and recycles used office furniture.

Keywords: ergonomic solutions, musculoskeletal disorders, workplace health, physical assistance devices, exoskeletons, adapted enterprise, social and solidarity economy, office furniture, workplace safety, employee well-being, passive exoskeleton, HAPO, ShivaExo, manufacturing, disability employment, circular economy, workplace ergonomics, injury prevention, industrial safety, workstation design, Samuel Corgne