Guidelines for standing workstations

Standing for long periods of time should be avoided wherever possible. Long periods of standing work can contribute to:

However standing workstations are sometimes necessary. Below are some guidelines to follow when standing work cannot be avoided.
 

If a job must be done in a standing position:

1. It is best to provide a chair or stool for the worker so that he or she can sit down at regular intervals.   2. The employee should always face the object of work.   3. Workers should be able to perform the task with their upper arms at their sides and without excessive bending or twisting of the back.   4. The height of the work surface should be adjustable for workers of different heights and for different job tasks:   5. Precision work, such as writing or electronic assembly should be positioned at 5 cm above elbow height and elbow support provided;   6. Light work, such as assembly-line or mechanical jobs, should be positioned about 5-10 cm below elbow height; and   7. Heavy work, demanding downward forces, should be positioned from 20-40 cm below elbow height.   8. If the work surface is not adjustable, provide pedestals and platforms to raise the work surface for taller workers and the working height of shorter workers.     9. Provide a footrest to help reduce the strain on the back and to allow workers to change positions. Shifting weight from time to time reduces the strain on the legs and back.   10. The floor should be clean, level and not slippery, and a mat should be provided so the worker does not have to stand on a hard surface. Slanted edges on mats prevent tripping. A concrete or metal floor can be covered to absorb shock.   11. Workers should wear shoes with arch support and low heels. Shoes should provide a firm grip for the heel. If the back of the shoe is too wide or too soft, the foot will slip causing instability and soreness.   12. There should be adequate space and knee room to allow the worker to alternate body positions while working.   13. The worker should not have to repeatedly outreach to do the job tasks; therefore the work should be performed 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 centimetres) in front of the body.     14. The job should be designed to allow the worker to keep the arms low and the elbows close to the body.

Standing practices to avoid: