5 Advantages Of Using Sit Stand Seating For Office Work
February 20, 2017
Spending long periods of time standing at work can be just as damaging to employee performance as spending long periods of time sitting. It can lead to workplace injuries, reduced productivity, increased medical costs and may even have a negative impact on employee morale. Prolonged standing can cause static muscular contraction in the back and lower limbs, which results in muscular discomfort and fatigue. The use of sit stand seating can counter this problem.
Here are 5 reasons to look into sit stand seating and desks for your office:
- Prevents Pain
Certain tasks can lead to discomfort and musculoskeletal disorders – take employees on an assembly line, for example, who often stand for long hours. Major discomfort has been linked to significant stress being placed on our joints combined with poor circulation in the lower limbs. The use of a sit stand stool can reduce pressure on our joints and facilitate proper circulation, which helps to prevent permanent damage to body tissues. - Reduced Fatigue
The posture we use for standing is mostly maintained by the muscles in our legs and torso. If we don’t have proper circulation (necessary for carrying oxygen and nutrients to these muscles), our bodies start to function similarly to a car running out of petrol – movement becomes sluggish and, soon, impossible. Prolonged standing can lead to permanent contraction of the legs and lower back muscles. - Improved Spine Alignment
When standing for long periods in a static position, the spine is often not optimally aligned. In fact, employees who must remain standing have a tendency to block their knees in full extension – holding this posture causes an abnormal curve in the lumbar region, resulting to bad posture and discomfort. The use of a sit stand chair allows employees to maintain an optimal lumbar curve, reducing the risk of back injuries. - Maintain Better Posture
A semi-seated position allows for quick and easy movement between different postures. It also encourages employees to alternate between sitting and standing by reducing the effort it takes to stand (compared to the effort required when we are fully seated). Furthermore, choosing an option with a small seat and the absence of a backrest can encourage employees to change their posture frequently. - Improved Mobility & Accessibility
Certain tasks require work to be undertaken on a counter or other high surface. High stools are commonly provided to these employees, however, a sit stand chair is an alternative that should be explored as objects are easier to reach and movement is greatly facilitated. When seated, employees tend to flex and twist their torsos in order to reach, which is quite bad for our bodies and posture.
Now that you’re aware of all the advantages that sit stand seating offers, you might be wondering what sorts of professions might require you to spend a lot of time on your feet. Ultimately, any number of workplaces could come with this requirement - some receptionists are required to stand at a counter (as opposed to sit at a desk) and those who work in laboratories are also often required to stand. Fostering good health for these employees should be paramount.