SIT STAND WORKSTATIONSElectric height adjustable sit/stand desks are in more frequent use throughout the University. Where staff members are provided with a sit/stand workstation it is important to consider and implement the following:

1. SITTING POSTURES Spine neutral (s-shaped) and lower back well supported by back rest Ears in vertical alignment with shoulders Shoulders relaxed and symmetrical Desk height approximately navel height – ensure elbows are at or just above desk level, when upper arms are relaxed and

hanging near the sides of the body Hips slightly higher than knees Clearance between front edge of chair seat and back of knee should be 1 -3 fingers – when sitting right back into the chair

with the lower back connecting the back rest Clearance under the desk should allow the chair to swivel fully without legs coming into contact with any item/structure Feet flat on the floor. Foot rests should not be needed given the desk height adjustability

2. STANDING POSTURES Spine neutral (s-shaped) Ears in vertical alignment with shoulders Shoulders are relaxed and symmetrical Desk height approximately navel height – ensure elbows are at or just above desk level, when upper arms are relaxed and

hanging near the sides of the body Feet positioned shoulder width apart with weight distributed evenly over both feet Knees slightly bent to enable more even distribution of weight over feet (this will improve the spinal posture

Health & SafetyT: +61 3 903 98926E: ohs-enquiries@unimelb.edu.auW: safety.unimelb.edu.au

Further information and advice: http://safety.unimelb.edu.auContact your local OHS practice expert: http://safety.unimelb.edu.au/about/contacts/Authorised: Associate Director, Health & Safety© The University of Melbourne. Uncontrolled when printed

Safety Alert 16/1 – 15 February 2016

Safety Alert

CAUTIONAlways remember to remove equipment or items from under your desk prior to lowering it.This includes: Your chair Umbrellas Items on top of your pedestal such as folders, in tray or bins.

Always check items (and hands) are clear of the periphery/ edges of the desk when raising /lowering to avoid compression or entrapment.

OPTIMAL POSTURAL ROTATION – Every 30 minutes: 20 minutes sitting, 8 minutes standing 2 minutes moving

This is based on some key physiological measures and can be adjusted to suit individual needs.The most important thing to remember is to change your posture and to move often.