Adjustable workbenches or workstations within industrial settings allow for adjustment to a work height not normally possible with a standard workstation. This adjustability can cater to specialised seating arrangements, unique physical needs, allow changes in desk height for rotation of work posture between sitting and standing and allow for multiple users at a workstation. Adjustable desks can be purchased in a range of widths, lengths and shapes and can have varying levels of height and angle adjustability along with specialised features. Custom built designs can assist for specialised situations.
Adjustable workstations can have built in castors or wheels to allow movement between locations and kits are available to modify certain types of existing desks for height adjustability. Industrial workbenches and industrial workstations are available with many options and features, including:
- varied leg or base set ups depending on access requirements
- manual wind up, hydraulic, foot pedal or electric height adjustability
- task lighting
- foot rests
- keyboard trays
- monitor arms
- storage bins
- cabinets, drawers or shelving
- electrical outlets
- castors
- tilting top
- tool racks or back racks to hang tools or supplies
- tool balancers on springs
- wire spool holders
- varying bench weight capacities
- various dimensions of work surfaces
- turntable or conveyor topped work surfaces
- tack boards for hanging documentation and personal effects.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
Consideration can be given to an adjustable height workstation if a standard industrial workbench or workstation is not suitable due to seating arrangements or unique physical characteristics of the individual. The following should be considered regarding individual requirements of the worker prior to purchase:
- user’s capacity to easily and safely adjust workstation adjustment controls
- storage requirements as inbuilt draws under the workstation can limit accessibility
- type of workstation or desk legs if need to access via wheelchair as workstations can come with a range of bases
- overall stability of the workstation
- whether castors or glides are required if workstation needs to be portable
- whether additional features are required to hold tools, components, supplies
- whether an inbuilt or portable footrest will be required.
If a particular adjustable workstation specific to a person’s disability is required within the workplace and is not something normally supplied by the employer under their Occupational Safety and Health requirements, consideration can be given to applying for funding assistance through the Employment Assistance Fund. Please refer to the following to determine eligibility:
For more information about adjusting workstations, see the links below:
References
Ferret 2011, Electric Height Adjustable Control Room and Console Desks by AME System, Ferret, Chatswood, viewed 5 May 2011, http://www.ferret.com.au/c/AME-System/Electric-Height-Adjustable-Control-Room-and-Console-Desks-by-AME-System-p23861.
Source Ergonomic 1998 - 2010, Industrial Products; Workstations, Source-Ergonomic Incorporated, online, viewed 5 May 2011, http://www.source-ergo.com/ind_worksta.html.