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30 August 2005 - TUC Report on Prolonged
Standing at Work
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A Trades Union Congress (TUC) report has likened British workers
who have to endure prolonged standing in the workplace to that of being worse
than in the Victorian era, as less protection is offered in today's workplaces.
According to the report, over 2million sick days each year are
lost, due to lower limb disorders, with 200,000 people reporting their
conditions are either made worse or are caused by their jobs.
The TUC list some of the risks involved from prolonged standing
in the workplace to be as follows:
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Work-related varicose veins.
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Poor circulation.
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Swelling in the feet and legs.
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Foot problems.
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Joint damage.
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Heart and circulatory problems.
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Pregnancy difficulties.
The report also surveyed Union Safety Representatives in the
following workplaces, where they all reported standing-related problems to have
been experienced by their members:
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Shop workers.
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Teachers.
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Library staff.
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Production line workers.
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Warehouse staff.
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Museum workers.
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School supervisors.
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Train drivers.
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Printers.
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Hospitality workers.
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Casino workers.
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Engineers.
Mr. Brendan Barber, TUC General Secretary commented:
"It's quite incredible that some staff today would be better
off under Victorian working conditions. There really isn't any need for the
excessive standing on the job that this report highlights. Most jobs don't need
people to be on their feet all day and bosses need to get over the fact that
someone sat down is protecting their health, not being lazy.
"Simple adjustments to the way millions of people work will
save countless sick days each year and stop British workers from, in some cases,
dying on their feet."
The TUC say these health risks can be minimised by improving
flooring, workstation design and personal protective equipment.
Further information on design of workstations for seated and
prolonged standing workers can be accessed from the HSE website by clicking the
following:
HSE Ergonomic considerations
Article by Alexandra Johnston
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