Seating at work: ergonomic selection and adjustment

Health and Safety Executive If material needs to be fed into a machine, bending can be avoided by having the material at waist height on a rack, which can be raised as the pile of material reduces. Foot pedals need to be arranged at the same level as any footrests to prevent constant bending or lifting and lowering of the legs. Basic information on ergonomics can be sought from the HSE leaflet If the task fits: Ergonomics at work (see Appendix 3). Lean-on or sit-stand seats (see figure 7(a)) 47 These seats are suitable only when it is impracticable to use conventional seating, and when machinery and the workstation does not allow for knee space. Such seats should still be adjustable in height and arranged to take part of the body’s weight. Particular attention should be paid to ensuring such seats are stable and comfortable under the conditions of use. (a) sit-stand seat (b) suspended seat (a) sit-stand seat (b) suspended seat (c) foldaway seat (c) foldaway seat Figure 7 some special types of seating Wheeled, sliding or suspended seats (see figure 7(b)) 48 These can be useful when employees need to move frequently from one machine or location to another. Fixed, foldaway seats (see figure 7(c)) 49 These may be more appropriate where space does not allow for common chair dimensions. The design can be swing-out or flap-down and can be tucked away when out of use. Seating at work Page 15 of 22