Height adjustable examination tables enable people to adjust their examination table, allowing them to work at a height that suits their needs.
Workplace solutions and adjustments:
Adjustable examination tables can be electrically 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:
- electrically operated tables will require good manual dexterity
- hydraulically operated tables may require pumping with a foot pedal
- manually operated tables may require winding with a handle.
A height adjustable examination table may be required 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 overreaching.
The Royal Australian College of General Practioners recommends the following preferred minimum measurements and adjustments for height adjustable examination beds:
(Royal Australia College of General Practitioners 2007; Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. 2007)
Relevant Links:
References:
Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. 2007, Product Search, Independent Living Centres Australia Inc., Sydney, viewed 25 March 2008, <http://www.ilcaustralia.org/home/search4.asp?State=NSW&MC=21&MinC=9&Item=5289&page=1>.
Royal Australia College of General Practitioners 2007, Height Adjustable Examination Beds, Royal Australia College of General Practitioners, Melbourne, viewed 25 March 2008, <http://www.racgp.org.au/Content/NavigationMenu/PracticeSupport/StandardsforGeneralPractices/adjustable_bed_specs.pdf>.