What percentage of your working time do you stand? After measuring a chef's movements over the course of a day using sensors, it turns out that for chefs, it's a whopping 87%.

Introduction

In modern workplaces, many workers are forced to stand for long periods of time. In fact, it is said that about 60% of workers have jobs that require standing. However, research has shown that standing for long periods of time can increase the risk of musculoskeletal disorders, chronic venous diseases, and even heart disease. In this article, we will explain the effects of standing work and measures to address them, based on a study by the University of Salford in the UK, "Exploring Occupational Standing Activities Using Accelerometer-Based Activity Monitoring."

Research Overview

The reality and problems of standing work

In this study, we used the ActivPAL accelerometer to measure the movements of chefs (10 people), veterinarians (7 people), and office workers (9 people) while they were working. The results revealed the following facts:

• Chefs and veterinarians spend significantly more time standing than office workers.
  • Chefs stand 87% of their time, veterinarians stand 70% of their time, and office workers stand 29% of their time.
  → Figure 3: Proportion of time spent on each occupation
• 62% of veterinarians were in a "static standing position," while chefs performed more dynamic movements.
  • 62% of veterinarians' standing time is "static standing (almost no movement)" Chefs' standing time is well-balanced with "static standing (23%)", "weight transfer (29%)", "small movements (23%)" and "walking (25%)".
• Differences in length of standing time and movement can affect the strain on the body. Figure 4: Percentage of participants standing and sitting during work hours

Differences between static and dynamic standing

The study revealed that the definition of "standing" varies by occupation.

• Static Standing : Standing with legs fixed. 62% of veterinarians fall into this position.
• Weight Shifting : The movement of shifting your weight while keeping both feet on the ground.
• Shuffling : Small movement of the legs, but no forward movement.
• Walking : Movement involving forward movement.

This difference can have a direct impact on muscle fatigue and leg problems. Static standing has been shown to cause blood flow stagnation, increasing muscle fatigue and pain.

→ Table 1: Types of activities defined in the study and their characteristics

Health risks associated with standing jobs

1. Risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)

Standing for long periods of time can cause back pain, knee pain, and leg pain. In particular, occupations that require long periods of static standing put a lot of strain on the lower limbs, making it easier for muscle fatigue to accumulate.

2. Venous disease and risk of heart disease

• Standing for long periods of time can increase your risk of chronic venous diseases (CVDs), which can lead to varicose veins and poor blood flow.
• There has also been a link with heart disease, and it has been suggested that workers who do more than 75% of their work standing may be at higher risk of heart disease.

How to reduce the strain of standing at work

1. Introduction of regular weight transfer and walking

Research has shown that combining static standing, like that of chefs, with walking and weight shifting helps reduce muscle strain. Therefore, taking a short walk every 30 minutes and shifting your weight while working are effective.

2. Choose the right footwear

Choosing the right shoes is an important factor in reducing the strain caused by standing for long periods of time.

• Uses highly cushioned insoles.
• Choose shoes that provide ankle support.

3. Use an anti-fatigue mat

By placing anti-fatigue mats in areas where you work while standing, you can reduce the strain on your legs and back. This is an especially effective measure for jobs that require a lot of static standing.

4. Improving the working environment

• Adjustable desk or workbench height : Prevents awkward postures.
• Increase opportunities to sit : Make time to sit, even for short periods of time.

summary

This study revealed that there are differences in "standing work" movements depending on the type of occupation, and that these differences may affect health risks. In particular, occupations that involve long periods of static standing are at higher risk of musculoskeletal and venous diseases, so appropriate measures are required.

Immediate action plan

1. Walk or shift your weight once every 30 minutes
2. Use cushioned shoes and anti-fatigue mats
3. Review your work environment and ensure you have time to sit

Start doing what you can today to reduce the strain of standing at work and create a healthier working environment.