Getting the most out of a sit /stand workstation
Good practices for getting the most out of the sit / stand workstation:
- Regularly change postures between sitting, standing and moving, to avoid prolonged sitting or prolonged standing at your workstation listen to your body (especially if you experience discomfort or pain) and alternate between sitting, standing and moving.
- Seek medical advice regarding and precautions for standing if you are pregnant, suffer from leg pain, varicose veins or have a pre-existing musculoskeletal problem such as lower back pain.
- Start standing for short periods and gradually build up to longer standing periods over time.
- To minimise leg fatigue, alternate or shift weight from leg to leg occasionally
- Current guidelines for predominately desk based work suggest initially building up to two hours of standing and movement over the workday with a view to standing and moving as much as possible spread over the day (pro rata for part time hours).
- Consider the type of footwear worn - low heel and supportive is best (consider leaving a pair at work).
- Consider using a cushioned ‘anti-fatigue mats’ for greater comfort whilst standing. However, these are generally not needed as carpet and underlay usually provides sufficient support.