Organization of the work space is another important aspect. If the workstation cannot be adjusted, platforms to raise the shorter worker or pedestals on top of workstations for the tall worker should be considered. Adjustability ensures that the worker has an opportunity to carry out work in well-balanced body positions. Being able to adjust the working height is particularly important to match the workstation to the worker's individual body size and to the worker's particular task. Working tables and benches should be adjustable. In a well-designed workplace, the worker has the opportunity to choose from among a variety of well-balanced working positions and to change between these positions frequently. What are some recommendations for improving workplace design? Back to top Excessive standing also causes the joints in the spine, hips, knees, and feet to become temporarily immobilized. This pooling may progress over time to chronic and painful varicose veins and inflammation. Prolonged and frequent standing, without some relief by walking, causes blood to pool in the legs and feet. The worker suffers not only muscular strain but other discomforts also. Insufficient blood flow accelerates the onset of fatigue and causes discomfort in the muscles of the legs, back and neck (these are the muscles used to maintain an upright position).

Standing effectively reduces the blood supply to the loaded muscles. Keeping the body in an upright position requires considerable muscular effort. What are some of the health hazards? Back to top These conditions commonly occur where the job is designed without considering the characteristics of the human body. This lack of flexibility in choosing body positions contributes to health problems. These restrictions give the worker less freedom to move around and less opportunity to alternate which muscles are used. As a result, the worker has fewer body positions to choose from, and the positions themselves are more rigid. The layout of the workstation, the tools, and the placement of keys, controls and displays that the worker needs to operate or observe will determine, and as rule, and restrict body positions that the worker can assume while standing. How can working in a standing position be an issue? Back to topĪ person's body is affected by the arrangement of the work area and by the tasks that he or she does while standing. These are common complaints among sales people, retail workers, machine operators, assembly-line workers and others whose jobs require prolonged standing. However, working in a standing position on a regular basis can cause sore feet, swelling of the legs, varicose veins, general muscular fatigue, low back pain, stiffness in the neck and shoulders, and other health problems. Standing is a natural human posture and by itself poses no particular health hazard.

You are here: Working in a Standing Position - Basic InformationĬan working in a standing position cause health issues? Back to top

Name thing to relax feet while working