Why choose an ergonomic stool?

Do you experience discomfort and significant fatigue at the end of your work shift? Various factors can explain this tiredness and pain, such as stress at work, your diet, physical condition, previous injuries… but have you ever considered the impact of your posture at work? Whether you work sitting or standing, bending over or squatting, these postures can become very taxing if maintained for long periods. Many solutions exist to alleviate these often inconvenient postural demands, such as the use of ergonomic stools.

This article will provide some insights to help you choose from the various types of ergonomic stools available on the market.

STANDING WORK

Standing for extended periods, as is the case for sales representatives, machinery operators, or assembly line workers, can cause swelling in the lower limbs, lower back pain, joint stiffness, and general muscle fatigue.

Given these negative effects, it’s important to recognize that certain solutions should be implemented to improve the well-being of these workers. Ergonomic sit-stand stools can be part of the solution to enhance working conditions.

The use of a sit-stand ergonomic stool allows for rest between prolonged periods of standing. The idea is to alternate between resting and standing to reduce back discomfort and lessen strain on the joints of the ankles, knees, hips, and spine.

OFFICE WORK

Computer work has increased significantly in companies in recent years, contributing to a rise in musculoskeletal disorders. Indeed, maintaining a poor seated posture daily can cause significant muscle tension, which may eventually evolve into more serious health issues. Due to this growing concern, the ergonomics industry has developed ergonomic stools to reduce the impact of static seated work.

One such innovation is the sit-kneel ergonomic stool, also known as a Swedish chair. This type of stool encourages an unconventional seated posture, where the user kneels and maintains a straight back. However, some users report that the continuous pressure on the knee joint can cause significant discomfort in the long term. Additionally, this type of seat does not always provide lumbar and back support, which can lead to slouching after several minutes of use.

Alternatively, if you have access to an adjustable height desk, it may be interesting to use a sit-stand ergonomic stool, as described earlier. Alternating between standing and sitting is ideal for reducing discomfort, and this type of stool can encourage you to stay standing longer while remaining comfortable.

Ultimately, choosing an ergonomic chair that offers optimal comfort and adequate support for your back and upper limbs remains the most sensible option to avoid discomfort. If your work requires you to sit in front of a screen all day, adopting good work habits to keep your tasks dynamic will be your best ally.

WORK CLOSE TO THE GROUND

Some professions require working close to the ground, whether kneeling, squatting, bending over, or switching between these positions. This is often the case for mechanics, welders, electricians, etc. These demanding and tiring postures can undeniably harm the worker’s health and productivity. That’s why access to ergonomic stools designed for specific tasks can benefit both the worker and the company.

Ergonomic stools are designed specifically to facilitate work at different heights. Others offer back support to make tasks performed on the ground, such as working under objects, easier. They also improve blood circulation in the lower limbs by limiting knee flexion.

Here are some photos to show you the different possible postures on a stool designed for low-level work:

Some workplaces may opt for using mats to reduce discomfort related to awkward postures near the ground. These work mats are effective for tasks in confined areas where using an ergonomic stool is impossible. However, such mats provide no back support and do not effectively prevent squatting or trunk flexion.

LABORATORY WORK

Risks associated with various laboratory practices are often attributed to the hazardous materials sometimes handled there. However, it’s important not to overlook the risks linked to awkward postures, especially prolonged standing. Indeed, there are many cases of back injuries and upper limb issues in such work environments. In addition to ensuring that laboratory workers use proper techniques, some ergonomic stools can help reduce the risk of discomfort and injury.

Once again, sit-stand ergonomic stools can be very useful at laboratory stations that require standing, typically equipped with high counters. Some sit-stand stools even come with a backrest, which can help reduce back discomfort and make precision tasks easier. For superior comfort and optimal posture, high ergonomic stools with a footrest ring and backrest are a winning option. This type of stool offers greater variability in adjusting components (seat, backrest, footrest ring…), allowing for a comfortable posture suited to different body types.

In conclusion, using ergonomic stools helps reduce movement in the trunk, upper, and lower limbs. They also help reduce discomfort, especially in the back. A training session on using ergonomic stools in the workplace is also recommended to maximize benefits and note a change in postural habits.

Feel free to contact us for an ergonomic evaluation tailored to your needs!