Is sitting worse than static standing? How a gender analysis can move us toward understanding determinants and effects of occupational standing and walking

Is Sitting Really the New Smoking? Health of North American Workers Exposed to Prolonged Static Standing

In Canada and the United States, many low-paid service providers are required to work long hours in a static standing posture. Women, young people, and low-paid workers are significantly more likely to report standing without moving at work. Prolonged sitting has received negative publicity, being associated with low caloric expenditure and, in some studies, with heart disease. Standing is often recommended, with static standing often conflated with walking. But prolonged standing has been associated with pain in the lower limbs and back, varicose veins, damage to arteries, heart disease, and problem pregnancies. Many US and Canadian jurisdictions such as the province of Quebec, Canada, include mandatory provision of seats in their occupational health regulations. Despite these regulations and subsequent jurisprudence, few cashiers, receptionists, or retail sales staff in these two countries can access seats at work. This article suggests some reasons for the lack of enforcement, describes efforts to transform this situation, and critically examines approaches to legislation, inspection, and intervention.

How are sex-gender differences in chair-and-desk-based postural variability explained? A scoping review

BACKGROUND

Desk-work-related musculoskeletal pain is more prevalent among female workers than male workers. This may be contributed to by sex and/or gender differences in postural variability however, the mechanisms underpinning these differences are poorly understood. This review investigates whether desk-based postural variability studies investigate sex-gender differences and, how they explain the mechanisms behind these differences.

METHODS

A scoping review was conducted with four databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus and ProQuest) searched in June and July 2023. Studies investigating postural variability among desk-based workers were included and a narrative approach used to synthesise results.

RESULTS

15 studies were included. Only four reported on sex-gender differences. None collected psychological or social information to explore reasons for sex-gender differences.

CONCLUSION

The mechanisms behind postural variability differences between sexes and genders are complex and multifactorial. Studies largely do not consider sex and gender and do not collect the information necessary to explain their results.

Active workstations: A literature review on workplace sitting

The purpose of this paper is to further understand current literature on prolonged sitting, sitting posture and active sitting solutions. This paper is divided into three sections: The first section (Part I) is a comprehensive overview of the literature on how a static prolonged seated posture can affect: spinal health, trunk posture, contact pressure/discomfort development and vascular issues. The second section (Part II) reviews and qualitatively compares the four working postures recognized in ANSI/HFES 100-2007: reclined sitting, upright sitting, declined sitting and standing. The final section (Part III) is a summary of research on active chairs that revolves around the two types of movement patterns: 1- sustaining continual movement over a range of postures, occasionally reaching neutral lordosis, and 2- maintaining high frequency and duration of daily light contractile activity in the legs (or lower limbs).

Comparison of Physiological Effects Induced by Two Compression Stockings and Regular Socks During Prolonged Standing Work

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to evaluate and compare lower-leg muscle fatigue, edema, and discomfort induced by the prolonged standing of security guards wearing regular socks and those wearing 15-20 or 20-30 mmHg compression stockings as intervention.

BACKGROUND

Compression stockings are sometimes used by individuals standing all day at work. However, quantitative evidence showing their potential benefits for lower-leg health issues in healthy individuals during real working conditions is lacking.

METHOD

Forty male security employees participated in the study. All were randomly assigned to the control or one of the two intervention groups (I15-20 or I20-30). Lower-leg muscle twitch force, volume, and discomfort ratings were measured before and after their regular 12-hr standing work shift.

RESULTS

Significant evidence of lower-leg long-lasting muscle fatigue, edema, and discomfort was observed after standing work for guards wearing regular socks. However, no significant changes were found for guards wearing either compression stockings.

CONCLUSION

In healthy individuals, compression stockings seem to attenuate efficiently the tested outcomes in the lower leg resulting from prolonged standing.

APPLICATION

Occupational activities requiring prolonged standing may benefit from 15-20 or 20-30 mmHg compression stockings. As similar benefits were observed for both levels of compression, the lower level may be sufficient.

How Can Quantitative Analysis Be Used to Improve Occupational Health without Reinforcing Social Inequalities? An Examination of Statistical Methods

Taking account of sex and gender in occupational health studies poses statistical challenges. Other sociodemographic variables, such as racialization, class, and age, also affect the relations between workplace exposures and health and interact with sex and gender. Our objective was to perform a critical review of conventional and emerging statistical tools, examining whether each analysis takes account of sociodemographic variables (1) in a way that contributes to identification of critical occupational determinants of health (2) while taking account of relevant population characteristics to reflect intersectional approaches to health and (3) using sample sizes and population characteristics available to researchers. A two-step search was conducted: (1) a scientific watch concerning the statistical tools most commonly used in occupational health over the past 20 years; (2) a screening of the 1980-2022 literature with a focus on emerging tools. Our examination shows that regressions with adjustment for confounders and stratification fail to reveal the sociodemographic mechanisms that interact with occupational health problems, endangering the identification of occupational risks. Multilevel (notably MAIHDA) analyses, decision tree, cluster, and latent analyses are useful methods to consider when seeking to orientate prevention. Researchers should consider methods that adequately reveal the mechanisms connecting sociodemographic variables and occupational health outcomes.

Should data on gender and ethnicity inform ergonomics interventions? Lessons from four case studies

Ergonomists intervene to improve work for all workers and adapt jobs to a range of worker characteristics. But their mandate rarely includes explicit attention to the distribution of worker demographics, to divisions among workers, or to discrimination on the basis of sex/gender or racialisation. A decades-long collaboration between ergonomists and the women's committees of three union confederations in Québec, Canada led to several instances where ergonomists had to confront situations involving sexism or racism, not foreseen during their training. This article will explore four problematic situations and suggest solutions, including paying more attention to teamwork, considering gender during ergonomics training, and developing a code of practice for ergonomics interventions.Practitioner summary: Workplace inequities related to sex/gender, racialisation and other sources of social inequity can affect job performance and workers' health. As such, do ergonomists need to consider them during an intervention? How? We analyse four situations encountered during interventions and suggest more attention to understanding workplace dynamics and promoting team function.

Work-related injuries among Syrian refugee child workers in the Bekaa Valley of Lebanon: A gender-sensitive analysis

Background

Syrian refugees in Lebanon have endured increasing hardships since the onset of the Syrian war in 2011, with many resorting to child labor. Working refugee children endure socioeconomic deprivation and harsh working conditions. This study explores the relationship between working conditions and the reporting of injuries among male and female Syrian refugee children in Lebanon and the related gender differences.

Methods and findings

A cross-sectional survey of Syrian refugee children working in the Bekaa Valley of Lebanon was conducted in 2017. Face-to-face interviews with children (8 to 18 years) collected sociodemographic information and testimonies of their work experiences. Logistic regression tested the association between reporting of injuries and risk factors including school enrolment, field of work, means of transportation to work, age started working, number of working hours, multiple jobs, work pressure and hazards, and abuse. Analyses were stratified by gender.

Of the 4090 surveyed working children, the majority reported working in agriculture (75.8%). Around a third (31.4%) reported being injured at work with a higher proportion in males. The most common reported injuries were cuts and wounds (44.9%), with males showing a higher proportion for all types of injuries compared to females. Nearly one fifth of reported injuries (19.8%) required medical attention in a hospital, with males reporting higher proportions than females for most types of injuries. The study findings revealed the association of multiple risk factors with an increased odds of reporting an injury, which included working in more than one job (AOR, 1.71; CI, 1.20–2.43; p = 0.003), working under pressure (AOR, 1.64; CI, 1.36–1.97; p<0.001), the use of sharp or heavy objects (AOR, 1.88; CI, 1.58–2.24; p<0.001), and experiencing physical abuse at work (AOR, 2.46; CI, 1.97–3.08; p<0.001). The odds of reporting an injury increased with every additional hour of work per day (AOR 1.08; CI, 1.02–1.14; p = 0.006). Most of these findings persisted in the male and female stratified models, with few exceptions. Males who went to work in a pickup truck had significantly lower odds of being injured than those who walked (AOR, 0.65; CI, 0.51–0.83; p = 0.001); this finding did not reach significance for females. Having longer work hours per day was significantly linked to higher odds of injury for females (AOR, 1.07; CI, 1.02–1.12; p = 0.008); but not for males. The main limitations of this study were its cross-sectional design and the use of self-reported variables.

Conclusions

This study is the first to obtain direct testimony on work-related injuries and working conditions, exploring gender differences, among Syrian refugee children in Lebanon. Results demonstrated the association between the occurrence of injury and multiple risk factors highlighting their strenuous working conditions, with some differences detected between males and females. Many injuries can be prevented through direct safety interventions and proper implementation of child labor policies. Multidimensional interventions are essential to address the complex evolving challenges facing refugees.

Gender differences in experience and reporting of acute symptoms among cleaning staff

BACKGROUND

Cleaning tasks pose risks of hazardous chemical exposure and adverse health effects for cleaning workers. We examined gender differences among cleaning staff in the experience of chemical-related symptoms and in reporting to supervisors.

METHODS

We analyzed cross-sectional reports from 171 university hospital or campus cleaning staff on chemical exposures to cleaning products, experience of acute symptoms, reporting of symptoms to supervisors, as well as demographic and psychosocial factors (risk perception, job demand/control, supervisor/co-worker support, and safety climate). Results were analized using multivariable logistic regression, adjusting for demographic, job, and psychosocial factors. Interactions of gender and psychosocial variables were also examined.

RESULTS

Men and women reported different frequencies for exposure-related tasks. Acute symptoms of chemical exposure were more prevalent in women compared with men (46.0% vs. 25.4%; adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 2.63; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.27-5.46). Women were more concerned about exposure to cleaning chemicals (p = 0.029) but reported symptoms to their supervisor less often than men (18.5% vs. 40.6%, adjusted OR = 0.28; 95% CI 0.09-0.93). More supervisor support was significantly associated with less frequent symptom experience among women (OR = 0.83; 95% CI 0.70-0.99). Asian workers and less educated workers were less likely than others to report symptoms to supervisors. Gender differences in symptom reporting to supervisors were not explained by psychosocial factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Women may have increased susceptibility or perception of symptoms from cleaning compared to men, but this may be mitigated by supervisor support. Female Asian workers with lower education may perceive more significant barriers in reporting work-related symptoms to supervisors. Further research is needed to explore factors related to underreporting.

Lumbopelvic sagittal standing posture associations with anthropometry, physical activity levels and trunk muscle endurance in healthy adults

Background

Various factors, inherited and acquired, are associated with habitual spinal postures.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to identify the relationships between trunk muscle endurance, anthropometry and physical activity/inactivity and the sagittal standing lumbopelvic posture in pain-free young participants.

Methods

In this study, 112 healthy young adults (66 females), with median (IQR) age of 20 years (18.2-22 years), without low back pain, injury or trauma were included. Lumbar curve (LC) and sacral slope (SS) angles were measured in standing with a mobile phone application (iHandy level). Anthropometric, physical activity/inactivity levels (leisure-time sport involvement and sitting hours/day) and abdominal (plank prone bridge test) and paraspinal (Sorensen test) isometric muscle endurance measures were collected.

Results

LC and SS angles correlated significantly ( r = 0 . 80 , p < 0 . 001 ). Statistically significant differences for both LC ( p = 0 . 023 ) and SS ( p = 0 . 013 ) angles were identified between the male and female participants. A significant negative correlation was identified between the abdominal endurance time and LC ( r =- 0 . 27 , p = 0 . 004 ); however, the power of this result (56%) was not sufficiently high. The correlation between abdominal endurance and SS was non-significant ( r =- 0 . 17 , p = 0 . 08 ). In addition, no significant associations were identified between either of the sagittal lumbopelvic angles (LC-SS) in standing and the participants' body mass index (BMI), paraspinal endurance, leisure-time sport involvement or sitting hours/day.

Conclusion

The potential role of preventive exercise in controlling lumbar lordosis via enhancement of the abdominal muscle endurance characteristics requires further confirmation. A subsequent study, performed in a larger population of more diverse occupational involvement and leisure-time physical activity levels, is proposed.

Australian emergency nurses' lumbar movement during a shift: An observational study

BACKGROUND

Emergency nurses are at higher risk than the average worker of experiencing lumbar pain. This is the first study to undertake real time monitoring to quantify lumbar movements of nurses working in the emergency department (ED).

METHODS

Emergency nurses at a single Australian ED were recruited for a prospective observational case study. Participants worked in four discrete clinical areas of the ED; In-charge, triage, resuscitation, and cubicles. Data collected included participant demographics, lumbar pain pre- and post-shift, and real-time recording of lumbar movements.

RESULTS

Sixty-two nurses participated. There were statistically significant differences in time spent standing (p = 0.005), sitting (p ≤ 0.001) and in locomotion (moving) (p ≤ 0.001) when compared by clinical role. Triage nurses spent over half their shift sitting, had the most sustained (> 30 s) flexions (60+ degrees) and had a median of 4 periods of uninterrupted sitting (10-30 mins) per shift.

CONCLUSIONS

Differences in movement demands were identified based on various clinical roles in the ED. Triage was associated with greater periods of uninterrupted sitting and with greater degrees of sustained flexion, both of which are predictors for back pain. This study provides foundation evidence that triage may not be the most appropriate location for staff returning from back injury.

Improved neck posture and reduced neck muscle activity when using a novel camera based workstation for manual precision inspection tasks

PURPOSE

This study investigates the effects of the usage of a novel camera system compared to a conventional lens system for manual precision tasks. Utilizing the novel camera system aims to improve neck posture, reduce neck muscle tension and thereby minimize the risk of neck pain.

METHODS

Camera and lens systems were compared by assessing the craniovertebral angle (CVA), electromyographic activity of the M.trapezius and perceived exertion. 16 healthy participants (n = 8 female, 24 ± 2 years; n = 8 male, 30 ± 5 years) performed manual precision tasks in a cross-over design using both systems in sitting and standing positions.

RESULTS

Analyses showed that using the camera system improved the CVA in sitting [28.4° (22.8°-33.9°) to 42.5° (38.9°-46.1°); p < 0.01] and decreased the M.trapezius activity in standing [13.1% (7.7%-18.6%) to 8.65% (5.49%-11.81%)]. Additionally, overall and neck specific perceived exertion decreased when using the camera system in standing.

CONCLUSIONS

The camera system may prevent neck pain in workers performing manual precision tasks in sitting and standing postures.

Sex and Gender in Research on Healthcare Workers in Conflict Settings: A Scoping Review

The occupational health literature has established that sex and gender are associated with all dimensions of the workplace. Sex and/or gender (sex/gender) factors play an important role in shaping the experiences, exposures, and health outcomes of male and female healthcare providers working in war and conflict settings. This study aims to (1) assess how sex/gender is considered in the occupational health literature on healthcare workers in conflict settings, and (2) identify the gaps in incorporating sex/gender concepts in this literature. A scoping review was carried out and nine electronic databases were searched using a comprehensive search strategy. Two reviewers screened the titles/abstracts and full-texts of the studies using specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Key information was extracted from the studies and four themes were identified. Of 7679 identified records, 47 were included for final review. The findings underlined the harsh working conditions of healthcare workers practicing in conflict zones and showed sex/gender similarities and differences in experiences, exposures and health outcomes. This review revealed a dearth of articles with adequate consideration of sex/gender in the study design. Sex/gender-sensitive research in occupational health is necessary to develop effective occupational health and safety policies to protect men and women healthcare workers in conflict settings.

Natural Patterns of Sitting, Standing and Stepping During and Outside Work-Differences between Habitual Users and Non-Users of Sit-Stand Workstations

Sit-stand workstations have shown to reduce sitting time in office workers on a group level. However, movement behaviour patterns might differ between subgroups of workers. Therefore, the objective of this study was to examine sitting, standing and stepping outcomes between habitual users and non-users of sit-stand workstations. From an international office population based in the Netherlands, 24 users and 25 non-users of sit-stand workstations were included (all had long-term access to these workstations). Using the ActivPAL, sitting, standing and stepping were objectively measured during and outside working hours. Differences in outcomes between users and non-users were analysed using linear regression. During working hours, users sat less (-1.64; 95% IC= -2.27--1.01 hour/8 hour workday) and stood more (1.51; 95% IC= 0.92-2.10 hour/8 hour workday) than non-users. Attenuated but similar differences were also found for total sitting time over the whole week. Furthermore, time in static standing bouts was relatively high for users during working hours (median= 0.56; IQR = 0.19-1.08 hour/8 hour workday). During non-working hours on workdays and during non-working days, no differences were found between users and non-users. During working hours, habitual users of their sit-stand workstation sat substantially less and stood proportionally more than non-users. No differences were observed outside working hours, leading to attenuated but similar differences in total sitting and standing time between users and non-users for total days. This indicated that the users of sit-stand workstations reduced their sitting time at work, but this seemed not to be accompanied by major carry-over or compensatory effects outside working hours.

Arriba por la Vida Estudio (AVE): Study protocol for a standing intervention targeting postmenopausal Latinas

BACKGROUND

Postmenopausal Latinas are a growing population group in the US who are at high risk for cardiovascular disease. Epidemiological studies have shown that excessive sitting is related to cardiovascular disease risk. Older women sit for prolonged periods and most individuals do not meet physical activity guidelines. Reducing sitting through increased standing may improve cardiovascular risk. More research is needed on how to intervene to increase standing in older Latinas.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the protocol for a randomized controlled trial to increase standing in postmenopausal Latinas: the Arriba por la Vida Estudio (AVE).

DESIGN/METHODS

Postmenopausal Latinas will be randomized to one of two study arms: an increase standing intervention or a heart healthy attention-comparison condition. A total of 250 overweight postmenopausal Latinas will be recruited and followed for 12weeks. AVE is based on various models of behavior change including strategies such as self-monitoring, goal setting, and habit formation. Participants will receive three in-personhealth-counseling sessions (including one in-home visit) and five follow-up telephone calls using motivational interviewing techniques. Those in the attention-comparison condition will receive an equal number of contacts as the standing intervention with topics focused on healthy aging. The primary outcome is objectively-measured sitting time over three months measured via thigh-worn inclinometers and secondary outcomes include blood pressure, physical functioning and glucoregulatory and lipid biomarkers.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings from this study will provide valuable information about effective approaches to increase standing time in postmenopausal Latinas and its impact on cardiovascular disease risk.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This study is registered at clincialtrials.gov Identifier: NCT02905929.

Objectively Measured Sitting and Standing in Workers: Cross-Sectional Relationship with Autonomic Cardiac Modulation

Excessive sitting and standing are proposed risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), possibly due to autonomic imbalance. This study examines the association of objectively measured sitting and standing with nocturnal autonomic cardiac modulation. The cross-sectional study examined 490 blue-collar workers in three Danish occupational sectors. Sitting and standing during work and leisure were assessed during 1⁻5 days using accelerometers. Heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) were obtained during nocturnal sleep as markers of resting autonomic modulation. The associations of sitting and standing still (h/day) with HR and HRV were assessed with linear regression models, adjusted for age, gender, body mass index, smoking, and physical activity. More sitting time during leisure was associated with elevated HR (p = 0.02), and showed a trend towards reduced HRV. More standing time at work was associated with lower HR (p = 0.02), and with increased parasympathetic indices of HRV (root mean squared successive differences of R-R intervals p = 0.05; high-frequency power p = 0.07). These findings, while cross-sectional and restricted to blue-collar workers, suggest that sitting at leisure is detrimental to autonomic cardiac modulation, but standing at work is beneficial. However, the small effect size is likely insufficient to mitigate the previously shown detrimental effects of prolonged standing on CVD.

Long-Term Access to Sit-Stand Workstations in a Large Office Population: User Profiles Reveal Differences in Sitting Time and Perceptions

Background: To decrease the detrimental health effects of prolonged sitting, the implementation of sit-stand workstations is a commonly used intervention for office workers. Most studies on this topic evaluated the effects of newly introduced sit-stand workstations. The objective of this study was to determine how often and how long the standing option is used and how the use of sit-stand workstations is perceived in office workers with long-term access to these workstations. Methods: Using an online survey, 1098 office employees responded to questions about frequency of usage of the sit-stand workstation, sitting time, physical activity, and positive and negative perceptions of the use of the sit-stand workstations. Results: Based on the frequency of use, three user groups were identified: non-users (32.1%), monthly/weekly users (37.5%) and daily users (30.4%). Non-users reported to sit more, stand less and have longer bouts of sitting, compared to monthly/weekly users, and these differences were even larger compared to daily users. A higher proportion of daily users perceived the use of the sit-stand workstation as being more healthy and appealing and making them more productive and energetic compared to the non-users. A higher proportion of the non-users perceived it as being uncomfortable, distracting, and unpractical, compared to the other user groups. Conclusions: The differences between the three identified user groups with respect to sitting, standing and perceptions of sit-stand workstations, might be helpful in tailoring future interventions to reduce occupational sitting time, to increase the reach, effectiveness and sustainability.

The effect of cushioning materials on musculoskeletal discomfort and fatigue during prolonged standing at work: A systematic review

This systematic review updates the current state of evidence on the effectiveness of softer flooring and cushioned shoe insoles on reducing musculoskeletal discomfort amongst workers who are required to stand for prolonged periods to work and the impact of factors such as age and gender on the outcomes. A systematic search identified 10 unique studies that met the eligibility criteria. The heterogeneity of study designs impacted on the strength of evidence. A moderate level of evidence was found in support of using cushioned materials in reducing discomfort/fatigue among standing workers. A limited level of evidence exists in favour of using insoles over anti-fatigue mats. Insufficient information exists for the impact of gender or age. Larger, good quality prospective intervention trials based in real workplaces that consider the impact of psychosocial and organisational factors on musculoskeletal discomfort whilst standing at work are required to inform industry recommendations.

The impact of a change in work posture from seated to stand-up on work-related musculoskeletal disorders among sewing-machine operators

BACKGROUND

Work-related postural change could lead to improved musculoskeletal health.

METHOD(S)

In a quantitative, retrospective, longitudinal study, data of work-related musculoskeletal disorders of 123 sewing-machine operators were captured for 4.5 years, and analysed using Poisson regression.

RESULTS

Stand-up work posture (SUWP) reduced the incidence for spinal disorders (SD) to 0.29 fold the incidence for sitting work posture (SWP) (P < 0.001). Morbid obesity had significantly increased (P = 0.04) incidence of upper limb disorders (ULD), 3.35 times that of normal body mass index (BMI) (regardless of work posture). SUWP was associated with increased IRR (1.49) for lower limb disorders (LLD). LLDs were associated with obesity (overweight (IRR = 2.58; P = 0.08), obese (IRR = 2.45; P = 0.09), and morbidly obese (IRR = 6.24; P = 0.001)).

CONCLUSIONS

The protective benefit of the SUWP was statistically significant for SD incidence. Owing to high mean BMI, SUWP had a negative impact on the incidence of LLDs for the first 2 months.

Male-Female Differences in Work Activity Limitations: Examining the Relative Contribution of Chronic Conditions and Occupational Characteristics

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to examine differences in activity limitations at work among men and women, and the relative contributions that chronic conditions and occupational characteristics have on these differences.

METHODS

Secondary data from the Canadian Community Health Surveys were used. Path analysis examined the role of mediating variables (chronic conditions and occupational characteristics) in male-female differences in work activity limitations.

RESULTS

The prevalence of activity limitations at work was higher in women (15.0%) than in men (12.3%). Arthritis, migraines, diabetes, heart disease, and mood disorders, as well as high physical demands and prolonged standing were associated with an increased risk of work activity limitations. The increased risk of work activity limitations among women was completely explained by mediating variables.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that male-female differences in work activity limitations can be explained by differences in chronic conditions and occupational characteristics.

The Relationship Between Occupational Standing and Sitting and Incident Heart Disease Over a 12-Year Period in Ontario, Canada

While a growing body of research is examining the impacts of prolonged occupational sitting on cardiovascular and other health risk factors, relatively little work has examined the effects of occupational standing. The objectives of this paper were to examine the relationship between occupations that require predominantly sitting and those that require predominantly standing and incident heart disease. A prospective cohort study combining responses to a population health survey with administrative health-care records, linked at the individual level, was conducted in Ontario, Canada. The sample included 7,320 employed labor-market participants (50% male) working 15 hours a week or more and free of heart disease at baseline. Incident heart disease was assessed using administrative records over an approximately 12-year follow-up period (2003-2015). Models adjusted for a wide range of potential confounding factors. Occupations involving predominantly standing were associated with an approximately 2-fold risk of heart disease compared with occupations involving predominantly sitting. This association was robust to adjustment for other health, sociodemographic, and work variables. Cardiovascular risk associated with occupations that involve combinations of sitting, standing, and walking differed for men and women, with these occupations associated with lower cardiovascular risk estimates among men but elevated risk estimates among women.

'The End of Sitting' in a public space: observations of spontaneous visitors

BACKGROUND

Sitting too much has been associated with negative health outcomes. 'The End of Sitting' is a newly developed office landscape that moves away from the traditional chair-desk setup. The landscape aims to reduce sitting time by offering a variety of (supported) standing positions. The aim of this study was to determine the usage of the landscape after being placed in the main entrance hall of the VU University in Amsterdam.

METHODS

We observed the number of spontaneous visitors as well as the duration of visits, changes to another location within the landscape, and adopted postures. Using questionnaires reasons (not) to visit the landscape, perceived affordances of the landscape and associations with long-term use were determined.

RESULTS

Observed numbers of visitors were relatively low and duration of visits were short, which seemed to indicate visitors were trying out the landscape. The majority of visitors were in an upright position, reflecting the designers' intentions. Visitors indicated that long-term use would be pleasant to them.

CONCLUSION

'The End of Sitting' landscape received positive reactions but number of visits were limited in the few months that it was placed in the university main entrance hall. The landscape might be better suited for designated working or study spaces, for which it was originally intended. It might also be worth to explore the landscapes suitability for short stay environments, such as waiting rooms.

Effects of Dual Monitor Computer Work Versus Laptop Work on Cervical Muscular and Proprioceptive Characteristics of Males and Females

OBJECTIVE

The effects of performing a 90-minute computer task with a laptop versus a dual monitor desktop workstation were investigated in healthy young male and female adults.

BACKGROUND

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are common among computer (especially female) users. Laptops have surpassed desktop computer sales, and working with multiple monitors has also become popular. However, few studies have provided objective evidence on how they affect the musculoskeletal system in both genders.

METHODS

Twenty-seven healthy participants (mean age = 24.6 years; 13 males) completed a 90-minute computer task while using a laptop or dual monitor (DualMon) desktop. Electromyography (EMG) from eight upper body muscles and visual strain were measured throughout the task. Neck proprioception was tested before and after the computer task using a head-repositioning test. EMG amplitude (root mean square [RMS]), variability (coefficients of variation [CV]), and normalized mutual information (NMI) were computed.

RESULTS

Visual strain ( p < .01) and right upper trapezius RMS ( p = .03) increased significantly over time regardless of workstation. Right cervical erector spinae RMS and cervical NMI were smaller, while degrees of overshoot (mean = 4.15°) and end position error (mean = 1.26°) were larger in DualMon regardless of time. Effects on muscle activity were more pronounced in males, whereas effects on proprioception were more pronounced in females.

CONCLUSION

Results suggest that compared to laptop, DualMon work is effective in reducing cervical muscle activity, dissociating cervical connectivity, and maintaining more typical neck repositioning patterns, suggesting some health-protective effects.

APPLICATION

This evidence could be considered when deciding on computer workstation designs.

Work activity in food service: The significance of customer relations, tipping practices and gender for preventing musculoskeletal disorders

Some evidence shows that food servers are exposed to an elevated risk of musculoskeletal disorders and injuries, and that their work activity varies by gender. Interviews of servers and observations of food service in Québec, Canada, were carried out in three restaurants and a questionnaire was administered to 64 workers from 44 other restaurants. The relationship with the customer has specific effects on work activity and transforms the physical, emotional and cognitive work. Strategies intended to speed service or otherwise related to the customer relationship can involve health risks. Women reported more direct food service (p < 0.01), a tendency to do more "housekeeping" tasks (p < 0.07) and fewer hours of work per week (p < 0.01). Women workers reported experiencing more sites of pain (p < 0.003). This exploratory study suggests that managing the server-customer relationship could be important in preventing musculoskeletal disorders in this population and that women are at particular risk.

Long-Lasting Changes in Muscle Twitch Force During Simulated Work While Standing or Walking

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-lasting effects of prolonged standing work on a hard floor or floor mat and slow-pace walking on muscle twitch force (MTF) elicited by electrical stimulation.

BACKGROUND

Prolonged standing work may alter lower-leg muscle function, which can be quantified by changes in the MTF amplitude and duration related to muscle fatigue. Ergonomic interventions have been proposed to mitigate fatigue and discomfort; however, their influences remain controversial.

METHOD

Ten men and eight women simulated standing work in 320-min experiments with three conditions: standing on a hard floor or an antifatigue mat and walking on a treadmill, each including three seated rest breaks. MTF in the gastrocnemius-soleus muscles was evaluated through changes in signal amplitude and duration.

RESULTS

The significant decrease of MTF amplitude and an increase of duration after standing work on a hard floor and on a mat persisted beyond 1 hr postwork. During walking, significant MTF metrics changes appeared 30 min postwork. MTF amplitude decrease was not significant after the first 110 min in any of the conditions; however, MTF duration was significantly higher than baseline in the standing conditions.

CONCLUSION

Similar long-lasting weakening of MTF was induced by standing on a hard floor and on an antifatigue mat. However, walking partially attenuated this phenomenon.

APPLICATION

Mostly static standing is likely to contribute to alterations of MTF in lower-leg muscles and potentially to musculoskeletal disorders regardless of the flooring characteristics. Occupational activities including slow-pace walking may reduce such deterioration in muscle function.

The Impact and Feasibility of Introducing Height-Adjustable Desks on Adolescents' Sitting in a Secondary School Classroom

Children spend over 60% of their school day sitting; much of this occurs in the classroom. Emerging research has examined the impact of environmental interventions on classroom sitting. While this research is promising, it has predominantly focused on the primary school setting. This study examined the impact and feasibility of height-adjustable desks on time spent sitting/standing during classroom lessons in a secondary school. Traditional desks in a Melbourne secondary school classroom were replaced with 27 height-adjustable desks (intervention classroom). Forty-three adolescents (51% male; mean age 13.7 ± 1.4 years) from Grades 7, 9 and 10 wore an inclinometer and accelerometer for schooldays and completed a survey after using the desks during lessons for seven weeks. Ten teachers (50% male) completed a survey. Time spent sitting, standing, and the length of sitting bouts were compared between periods when adolescents were in the intervention classroom versus traditional classrooms (matched on teacher and subject). Compared to the traditional classroom, adolescents spent 25% less time sitting and 24% more time standing in the intervention classroom (effect size > 0.8), and had a greater frequency of short sitting bouts and fewer longer bouts. The majority of teachers (71%) and students (70%) reported wanting to continue to use the height-adjustable desks. When standing during lessons, adolescents reported working well (69%); however, a third reported difficulties paying attention (28%) and becoming distracted (36%). Few teachers reported negative influences on adolescents' ability to work (14%) and concentrate (14%). Half the adolescents reported leg, or back pain with standing. Introducing height-adjustable desks resulted in lower levels of sitting compared with traditional classrooms, was acceptable and had some adverse effects on concentration and discomfort. The study provides preliminary evidence that height-adjustable desks may help reduce prolonged sitting in school among adolescents. Future research should incorporate a control group and explore behavioural and academic outcomes.

Occupational physical activity assessment for chronic disease prevention and management: A review of methods for both occupational health practitioners and researchers

Occupational physical activity (OPA) is an occupational exposure that impacts worker health. OPA is amenable to measurement and modification through the hierarchy of controls. Occupational exposure scientists have roles in addressing inadequate physical activity, as well as excessive or harmful physical activity. Occupational health researchers can contribute to the development of novel OPA exposure assessment techniques and to epidemiologic studies examining the health impacts of physical activity at work. Occupational health practitioners stand to benefit from understanding the strengths and limitations of physical activity measurement approaches, such as accelerometers in smartphones, which are already ubiquitous in many workplaces and in some worksite health programs. This comprehensive review of the literature provides an overview of physical activity monitoring for occupational exposure scientists. This article summarizes data on the public health implications of physical activity at work, highlighting complex relationships with common chronic diseases. This article includes descriptions of several techniques that have been used to measure physical activity at work and elsewhere, focusing in detail on pedometers, accelerometers, and Global Positioning System technology. Additional subjective and objective measurement strategies are described as well.

Musculoskeletal symptoms and associated risk factors among African hair braiders

African hair braiders are potentially subject to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) because they perform repetitive hand motions for many hours a day together with prolonged standing and/or prolonged sitting. A complete enumeration of African hair braiders was attempted in Oklahoma City (OKC) and Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW). Braiders were identified through the channels they typically use to offer services to clients. Potential risk factors and symptoms of WMSDs were assessed using an oral interview. Participation rates were 95% (18/19) in OKC and 83% (83/101) in DFW. More than 75% of braiders reported discomfort in the fingers, wrist/hand, upper back, and lower back. In multivariate analysis, years worked as a braider but not age was a significant risk factor (p < 0.005) for reported pain in the wrist/hand, time spent sitting during the work day was found to be a significant predictor (p < 0.05) of upper back pain and lower back pain, and time spent sitting and time spent standing during the work day were both significant predictors (p < 0.05) of shoulder pain. Braiders in OKC, where licensing requirements were stricter, were significantly more likely than braiders in DFW to work at home (67% vs. 4%, p < 0.001) and to report pain in the lower leg (p < 0.005) and ankle/foot (p < 0.05). The close-knit nature of the African hair braiding community makes it an appealing candidate for community-based participatory research aimed at further elucidating occupational health concerns and reducing risk.

Pain and Prejudice: Does Collecting Information From the Standpoint of Exposed Workers Improve Scientific Examination of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders?

The meaning, feasibility, and importance of scientific objectivity have been debated among public health scientists. The debate is particularly relevant to occupational health, because of frequent opposition between employer and worker interests. This article suggests that the concept of standpoint (J. Eakin) may be more useful than that of objectivity in framing discussion of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Studies done from a "worker" standpoint can, for example, investigate and characterize environmental risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders, while studies from an "employer" standpoint may concentrate on identifying individual workers likely to report work-related musculoskeletal disorders or those for whom consequences of work-related musculoskeletal disorders are more severe. Within "worker" standpoints, a distinction between "high-prestige worker" and "lower-prestige worker" standpoints can be identified in the current scientific debate about the health costs and benefits of prolonged standing vs prolonged sitting at work. Contact with workers, particularly lower-prestige workers, is critical to developing and sustaining a worker-based standpoint among researchers in occupational health. This contact can be facilitated by formal collaborations between universities and unions or other community groups.

The sedentary office: an expert statement on the growing case for change towards better health and productivity

An international group of experts convened to provide guidance for employers to promote the avoidance of prolonged periods of sedentary work. The set of recommendations was developed from the totality of the current evidence, including long-term epidemiological studies and interventional studies of getting workers to stand and/or move more frequently. The evidence was ranked in quality using the four levels of the American College of Sports Medicine. The derived guidance is as follows: for those occupations which are predominantly desk based, workers should aim to initially progress towards accumulating 2 h/day of standing and light activity (light walking) during working hours, eventually progressing to a total accumulation of 4 h/day (prorated to part-time hours). To achieve this, seated-based work should be regularly broken up with standing-based work, the use of sit-stand desks, or the taking of short active standing breaks. Along with other health promotion goals (improved nutrition, reducing alcohol, smoking and stress), companies should also promote among their staff that prolonged sitting, aggregated from work and in leisure time, may significantly and independently increase the risk of cardiometabolic diseases and premature mortality. It is appreciated that these recommendations should be interpreted in relation to the evidence from which they were derived, largely observational and retrospective studies, or short-term interventional studies showing acute cardiometabolic changes. While longer term intervention studies are required, the level of consistent evidence accumulated to date, and the public health context of rising chronic diseases, suggest initial guidelines are justified. We hope these guidelines stimulate future research, and that greater precision will be possible within future iterations.