Seating at work: ergonomic selection and adjustment

Health and Safety Executive Gas lift chairs 30 Some pedestal chairs have compressed gas in a cylinder under the seat to enable seat height adjustment. Care should be taken with these chairs. There have been incidents where the cylinder has failed through metal fatigue, causing parts to be forcefully expelled. The following guidelines apply to all gas pedestal chairs: n if the seat wobbles suddenly, or tips, do not examine it or try to fix it. Contact the supplier or manufacturer immediately to ensure that the chair receives expert attention; n nobody weighing more than 100 kg (16 stone) should use a gas lift chair unless it has been specially designed to accommodate heavier people safely; n the chair must not be misused, and it should be well-maintained (see paragraphs 44 and 45 on seating maintenance); n the supplier should be contacted if any defect is noticed and before having the chair renovated. Upholstery 31 The seat, armrests and backrests should be well padded to ensure that the worker’s body does not press uncomfortably on the frame of the chair. Corners and edges of chairs should be well padded to reduce the likelihood of damage. Padding needs to be firm rather than soft, and of good quality to ensure that the chair remains comfortable for a reasonable time. If flexible polyurethane foam is used, it should comply with the requirements in BS 3379, or an equivalent standard. 32 Chair covers need to be non-slip, easy to clean or wash, and of a fabric which ‘breathes’ (permeable to moisture). Good-quality, durable covers will aid comfort and prolong the service life of the chair. Moulded armrests can be a good alternative to the upholstered sort. Chairs with removable covers are useful in dirty and dusty environments because they can be washed and cleaned regularly. Alternatively, PVC-covered or moulded plastic chairs can be used since they may be easily wiped down or spot cleaned, although they are less comfortable to sit in for long periods particularly in warm or humid atmospheres, or in very warm or cold conditions. 33 To ensure that upholstery does not present an unacceptable fire risk, seating should meet BS 5852: 1990 listed in Appendix 2. Durability 34 Seating at work needs to be strong and stable since it is used for long periods. It is recommended that chairs pass the tests laid down in BS 5459 (see Appendix 2) or an equivalent standard. This helps eliminate any design or manufacturing weakness which may cause failure or possible injury. Planning the workstation 35 Workstation design should be based on a careful assessment of all aspects of the job, and any special needs of the individual worker. Ensure that each task can be carried out safely, comfortably and as efficiently as possible. Seating at work Page 11 of 22