Standing at work?

Ergonomics are just for office workers, right? Wrong.

While the idea of ergonomics may conjure up images of computer work, seating, and posture, there’s a lot more to the science of matching the job to the worker and the product to the using the right chair. In fact, correct seating is only one aspect of ergonomics. Workers who remain on their feet regularly or for extended periods of time need to be protected too.

Here’s why: Standing is a natural human posture, but it can become a health hazard if a worker remains on their feet regularly or for extended periods of time without the relief that comes from changing positions or walking.

Sore feet, swollen legs, varicose veins, low back pain, stiffness in the neck, general muscular fatigue, and muscle pain and discomfort are just some of the issues caused by prolonged standing.

So, how can ergonomic injuries be prevented? It starts with eliminating hazards.

When it comes to ergonomics, eliminating hazards at the source is always the most effective way to keep workers safe. In the case of prolonged standing, that could mean providing a chair at a workstation. However, given the nature of manufacturing plants and job shops and the work that goes on in them, working in seated positions is not always safe or functional. That’s where a larger ergonomics program can come in.

Time for a Change … in Positions

No matter the environment or the job, ergonomics should always be considered and applied, especially if the first step of eliminating the hazard isn’t a possibility.

This approach comes in handy when you’re unable to eliminate hazards, like prolonged standing, but do have the ability to improve the overall environment through small but effective changes.

Here’s an example: Give workers the ability to frequently change positions, moving from standing to seated (if possible), or other well-balanced and ergonomically correct positions. This could mean allowing more frequent rest periods in between earned breaks, like microbreaks, where workers can stretch or relax their tired limbs and muscles for a few moments before getting back to work.

No One-Size-Fits-All Approach

Ergonomics is partly about fitting the product to the user, so where possible, all seats, working tables, and benches should be adjustable. It’s also important to consider the height of workers, and how they interact with their surroundings and tools.

For example, a worker who stands at 5 ft. 2 in. tall won’t use a tool the same way their 6-ft. co-worker will. Each person will have different requirements, which is why workplaces need to look for tools, equipment, and other workstation accessories that have adjustable working heights. This helps to match the worker’s size to their tasks and ensures that each worker has an opportunity to carry out their duties in well-balanced body positions.

If adjusting working height isn’t possible, look for safe and suitable alternatives. This might mean providing a sturdy platform to accommodate shorter workers, or the use of pedestals on top of workstations for taller workers.

No matter the adjustment, there should always be enough room to move around and change body positions safely. Organize the space so workers can shift their body weight from one leg to another (like using footrests or footrails, for example), and make sure that controls and tools are positioned so they’re easily and comfortably reached.

While making any necessary adjustments, make sure that no new hazards are created. This includes increasing the risk of a slip, trip, or fall, creating new ergonomic issues that add strain to other areas of the body, or other hazards.

Teamwork Makes the Ergonomic Dream Work

Ergonomics goes beyond fit and function. It also includes changes in body positions, using different muscles, and even collaborating with other team members. By facilitating job rotation and teamwork, jobs and duties can become easier on the worker’s body. For example, if trained workers are around to help carry the load (sometimes literally), others can comfortably take their breaks without worry of work not being done.

Giving workers the option to work on multiple tasks versus one job for the entire shift can also help ease pains and prevent injury.

When in Doubt, Sit It Out

Remember, even if the job requires workers to be in a standing-only position, a seat or bench should still be provided. Look for one that is suitable for the environment, like a sturdy bench against a wall, and make sure that workers know they can take a seat when they need it.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to ergonomics, don’t wait for pain to make a change. Education (including what to avoid, how to pace work appropriately, and instructions on how to stretch and work properly), training, and supervision paired with input from workers are key elements to ensuring that workers are healthy and safe—no matter if they’re sitting, standing, or moving around.

This article was supplied by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS), 135 Hunter St. East, Hamilton, Ont. L8N 1M5, 800-668-4284, www.ccohs.ca.