Sit-stand or sit-lean stools are used in a variety of work environments and are useful for people who are required to work at benches, alternate postures regularly or complete work tasks for long periods of time such as when working on an assembly line. They place the user in a semi-standing position which can be adjusted depending on the nature of the work, the work environment, height of workstation, and duration of the task. The overall aim is to ensure correct spinal posture, whilst reducing fatigue during work tasks.
Sit-stand stools are height and angle adjustable and the seat has a tilting mechanism to maximise hip and lumbar spinal flexion. A range of sit-stand and lean stools exist and can be adapted to suit many situations and environments. Stools are available with seat tilt mechanisms, with or without backrests, saddle style seats and with or without castors or glides.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
Sit and lean stools are ideal in work environments such as assembly, sorting, packing, workshop and booth environments. Additionally, tasks involving forward reach activities, such as sorting over a workbench, may benefit from using such a stool to reduce stress placed on the lumbar spine.
These particular stools are beneficial for people who work in a position where for the majority of their working hours they are required to stand and/or the bench they are working at is higher than a generic desk or bench height. The stool is used to provide relief from fatigue, leg soreness or weakness and/or lower back pain. A sit stand stool can reduce the pressure off the feet and spine. Additionally people with poor balance and posture could utilise the stool for support.
If a particular sit-stand stool specific to a person’s disability is required within the workplace and is not something normally supplied by the employer under their Occupational Health and Safety requirements, consideration can be given to applying for funding assistance through the Employment Assistance Fund. Please refer to the following to determine eligibility:
For more information about specific chairs for the workplace see the links below:
References
Backcare & Seating 2008, Industrial Seating: Perching Stool PU, Backcare & Seating, Melbourne, viewed 10 May 2011, http://www.backcare.com.au/html/product_design_chair.php?id=Perching%20Stool%20PU&pid=1
Independent Living Centre NSW 2009, Therapod Industrial Seating, Independent Living Centre NSW, Parramatta, viewed 10 May 2011, http://www.ilcnsw.asn.au/items/4859#product_details