Seating at work: ergonomic selection and adjustment

Health and Safety Executive 41 Standing or sitting for long periods can lead to discomfort and may result in long-term health problems, so it is important that workers have the opportunity to change position, stand up and move around. If possible the workstation and seating design should allow for free movement. If this is not possible, an employer can provide opportunities for movement by giving employees a variety of tasks or introducing task rotation, or by ensuring that employees take adequate rest breaks away from the workstation. Prevention is better than cure 42 Employers need to be able to spot the signs that suggest seating is uncomfortable. For example, people may use cushions of their own or makeshift footrests. Simply asking employees if their seat is comfortable is sometimes enough to assess whether a problem exists. It is better for employers to take the initiative in providing suitable seating, and not wait until complaints are received or until workers take time off with back pain. Employees also need to play their part by telling their employers, or those responsible for health and safety, if seating is unsuitable or unsafe. Selection of seating 43 Paragraphs 14 and 15 cover the steps that an employer can take when selecting seating. This can involve carrying out user trials. For example, people of different shapes and sizes could try out a sample seat for a period. Some suppliers may be willing to supply seating on approval. Nevertheless, it is recommended that employees and safety representatives are consulted on any changes to be made to the workplace or workstation, and this includes seating. Seating maintenance 44 To ensure that seating is safe and has a good service life, it must be treated properly. It is bad practice to put undue pressure on the armrests by sitting on them, or leaning too heavily over them. Rocking backwards and forwards may cause damage or cause the seat to become unsafe, as may standing on it to move furniture or equipment. 45 Employers need to ensure that seating remains in a clean, safe condition. It is good practice to check seating regularly for signs of damage or excessive wear. Particular attention should be paid to the adjustment mechanisms, which should be serviced or repaired as necessary. Unsafe seating should be removed or made safe. Examples of seating and workstation layout Machinery work 46 Where employees are operating or monitoring machinery it may not always be possible to provide a standard chair. Wherever possible employers need to provide some form of suitable and safe seating. Several designs may be suitable (see the following paragraphs). Chairs will need to meet the safety requirements of the task at hand. For example, chairs will need to be adjustable or of the correct height for the task to prevent workers from over-reaching, stretching and twisting. It can sometimes be advantageous for the workstation to be arranged to allow workers to sit or stand alternately. Hand controls should be within easy reach and ergonomically designed. Sufficient room needs to be provided for knees and legs. Seating at work Page 14 of 22