Height adjustable examination tables enable individuals to adjust their examination table, allowing them to work at a height that best suits their needs.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
Adjustable examination tables can be electronically operated, manually operated or operated manually with the assistance of hydraulics. The type of table needed will depend on the needs of the individual. Consideration will need to be given to the physical requirements needed to operate each type of adjustable table including:
- electronically operated tables require good manual dexterity
- hydraulically operated tables may require pumping with a foot pedal
- manually operated tables may require winding with a handle.
Individuals may require a height adjustable examination table for many reasons including:
- to reduce the risk of back injuries from sustained stooping
- easier use for a wheelchair user
- to reduce the need for over reaching.
There are recommended minimum measurements and adjustments for height adjustable examination beds, these are only a guide to follow, not obligatory:
- adjustable height range of 45-95cm
- 175kg weight capacity
- 71cm width
- 193cm length.
More information on creating workstations to suit individual’s needscan be found at the following link:
References
Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. 2007, Product Search, Independent Living Centres Australia Inc., Sydney, viewed 18 January 2011, http://www.ilcaustralia.org/home/search4.asp?State=NSW&MC=21&MinC=9&Item=5289&page=1.
Royal Australia College of General Practitioners 2010, Fact Sheet - Height Adjustable Examination Beds, Royal Australia College of General Practitioners, Melbourne, viewed 18 January 2011, http://www.racgp.org.au/Content/NavigationMenu/PracticeSupport/StandardsforGeneralPractices/Standards4thEdition/Standards4Factsheets/HeightAdjustableBedsFactSheet.pdf.