Are you reading this sitting down? Sitting is one of the most prominent modern health risks today, with health professionals warning that it harms organs, muscles and circulatory system which can cause weak bones, undeveloped abs and glutes and a bad back
Aches and pains are just the beginning — sitting too much can lead to an early death. Those sitting for a good part of their day – at the office, in the car or your couch at home - face a higher risk of muscular-skeletal disorders, obesity, diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. Sitting down even increases a person’s risk of cardiovascular disease as much as 125%.These risks are still present even if you work out regularly. However, there’s a new idea that’s steadily been gaining popularity: the sit-stand desk.
Standing desks allows a transition between sitting and standing at the press of a button, giving the body a break from sitting at various intervals throughout the day.
Some benefits of the sit-stand desk and other ergonomic equipment include:
- Lowering the risk and associated claims costs of musculoskeletal disorders
- Reducing sick leave
- Reducing stress
- Improving productivity and engagement
Sit-stand desks are also great for jobs that require desk sharing - dispatch jobs, transportation, government, utilities and even casinos have 24/7 office environments. In these workplaces, adjustable seating or desk options are essential. As one employee ends a shift and another begins, the equipment can repositioned.
Sit-stand desks or ergonomic seating can help your employees function to their full potential. However, success with a sit-stand desk is participation – your employees need to be committed to using it properly and regularly.
What else can you do to reduce the time spent sitting down at work?
- Take regular breaks – going for a walk or doing some stretches can improve health outcomes and improve productivity.
- Stretching between work tasks! Keep focused on the core, arms, shoulders and hands, can improve circulation and physical wellbeing
- Offering in-house exercise can give employees a break from their desks, help them keep fit, and give them an endorphin rush to boot.
You can improve your environment now by checking your seat!
Step 1: sit at the desk (or stand, if it’s a standing desk) with your arms at your side
Step 2: move your elbows to a 90-degree angle, so it’s easy and comfortable to place both hands on the desk
Step 3: if your elbows are at more than a 90-degree angle, the desk should be raised, or the chair lowered. If your elbows are at less than a 90-degree angle, the desk should be lowered, or the chair should be raised.
If you want to discuss strategies to ensure you’re doing the best by your workforce, Gallagher Bassett can help make sure you’re managing your liabilities and keeping your workforce healthy and happy.