Did you know sitting for long periods of the day is a on the job hazard? Excessive sitting can pose danger to life and health, as it can cause health issues such as:
• Can worsen mental health
• Higher risk of death from cardiovascular disease and cancer
• Higher risk of being disabled
• Obesity
• Slows the metabolism
• Weaken muscles and bones
• Increased blood pressure, cholesterol levels and high blood sugars
A study found that people who sat for long periods of more than 11 hours a day, were more at risk of dying at a younger age than those who did not sit for long periods.
11 hours sounds like a lot but this time could easily be made up from sitting in vehicles, sitting at work at a desk and, sitting on the coach watching TV, without much notice.
Hours sitting at work a day: 8 hours
Commute to and from work: 1 hour
Watching TV at night: 2 hours
Total hours sitting a day= 11 hours
x 5 working days= 55 hours of sitting just between Monday and Friday!
Over a lifetime in a job where an individual sits all day, this number is huge.
(30 years X 55 hours a week = 85,800 hours during 30 years of work)
Prevention
As you may guess the prevention from excessive sitting, is exercise!
For office workers investing in a stand up / sit down desk can assist with reducing the risk. Being able to change from sitting to standing can help. If this is not an option, try:
• Standing up for a few minutes every 30 minutes
• Go for a brief walk
• Stand while talking on the phone
• Talk with colleagues while walking
• Do some simple exercises to stretch. Exercises could include:
Squats or lunges
Arm stretches
Calf raises
Forward / Back bends
Our bodies are designed to move and be active. Take care of your body and be mindful to avoid sitting for long periods of time.
Need Assistance?
Our team are available if you require assistance with office ergonomic assessments