A workstation suitable for the worker and the tasks plus good job design are important for workers who work in a sitting position.

Workstation

A workstation should allow the worker to sit in a balanced body position.

• Use a workstation that ensures that the alignment of the spine is the same whether the worker sits or stands.
• Use a workstation that allows the worker to move the spine freely.

Job design

A job design should allow the worker to work in a variety of balanced positions.

• Design tasks so they require movement of the spine and encourage the worker to alternate positions frequently.
• Avoid an excessive range of movement by:
• providing all materials at working level.
• positioning tasks within easy reach.
• avoid lifting and transferring loads while sitting.
• Position visual tasks that maintain the vertical alignment of the head and spine
• Design the lighting system to:
• provide good general lighting.
• provide task lighting where necessary.
• avoid glare.

Design manual tasks to maintain vertical alignment of the spine, and avoid constant stress on the shoulder region.

• Provide materials at or slightly below elbow height.
• Provide arm rests where appropriate.
• Provide tool balancers.
• Avoid heavy hand tools.

• Position foot tasks so that they can be done without twisting hips.
• Design foot tasks to avoid movement and exertion by only one leg.
• Provide the appropriate support for both working and non-working leg.
• Design a sitting task that encourages the worker to alternate positions frequently.