Many jobs require working at standing height, including working as chefs, shop assistants, production line workers, customer service assistants, hairdressing, bank tellers, working in restaurants, nursing and teaching.
Working at standing height may involve:
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completing work above head height
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completing work in mid-range
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lowered work in standing or stooping
Working in a standing position can be uncomfortable for some people with disability. Work in some standing positions can have adverse effects on any person. When completing work in a standing position, it is important to look at the position of various parts of the body including the neck, head, arms, hands, back, hips, legs and feet. For example, a person may be working above head height where prolonged standing may be difficult, however, the position of the neck and arms may be more problematic.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
It is important in each job to minimise the risks or the difficulties associated with working in a standing position. Where possible, the job and work environment should be designed to fit the worker. Some strategies may include:
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elimination and substitution—consider if work in a standing position needs to be completed
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minimisation—try to decrease the frequency or repetition of tasks while completing work while standing
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engineering—can the work station or work environment be changed to reduce the risks or difficulties for the employee? For example, ensuring work is within mid-range and tools are within easy reach to minimise additional stress on the body in other areas
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administration—modification of work systems and practices (for example, rotation of workers to reduce the amount of time for any one peron working in a standing position)
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training and supervision—ensuring employees operate equipment safely and adopt safe work practices for working in a standing position, for example performing regular stretches and alternating postures where possible
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personal protective equipment—for example, supportive footwear and anti-fatigue matting
(Australian Safety and Compensation Council 2007, WorkCover NSW 2007).
Products, aids and supports to assist people who need to stand for long periods include:
References and resources
Australian Safety and Compensation Council 2007, OHS Practical Solutions Database, Australian Safety and Compensation Council, Canberra, viewed 2 May 2007, <www.ascc.giv.au> and <http://www.nohsc.gov.au/OHSInformation/Databases/OHSSolutions/hierarchy.htm>.
Ciccarelli, M 2006, Overview of Occupational Safety & Health Issues in Western Australia: Occupational Therapy Notes, Curtin University of Technology, Perth.
Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. 2007, Independent Living Centres Australia Inc., viewed 3 May 2007, <http://www.ilcaustralia.org>.
Lechner, D 1999, ErgoScience: Job Demands Analysis, University of Alabama, Albama.
WorkCover New South Wales 2007, OHS Hazards, New South Wales Government, Sydney, viewed 3 May 2007, <http://www.workcover.nsw.gov.au/Publications/OHS/Hazards/hazardhierarchy.htm>.