Work Station Configuration - Types and Characteristics

Workstation Types and Characteristics

• Seated

• Standing

• Sit/Stand

In general, there are three categories of workplace design that will be determined by the type of work to be performed.  The following lists of workstation characteristics can help select the appropriate working posture for various tasks.  When both seated and standing conditions apply, design according to the standing workstation criteria.

Seated workstations are appropriate when:

• A high degree of precision is required (fine manipulation and visual attention).

• Feet are used for control operations.

• All tools and materials can be easily supplied and handled within the reach envelope.

• The job consists of long work periods (over 5 minutes).

• Hands are not required to work more than 6 inches above the work surface.

• Low forces are exerted (weights are less than 10 lbs.).

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Standing workstations are appropriate when:                     

• The work requires frequent high, low, or extended reaches outside of the comfortable arm reach envelope (more than 15 inches).

• Frequent walking is required.

• Large forces are exerted or heavy weights are handled (objects weighing >10 lbs).

• It is impossible to provide leg room for a seated operator (less than 18 inches of knee clearance and less than 19-24 inches of foot clearance).

• Frequent movement between various workstations (every 5 minutes or less).

• Intermittent task duration.

• Items are handled more than 6 inches above the work surface.

• Downward forces of more than 10 lbs are required.

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Sit/Stand or Support Stool workstations are appropriate when:

• Some tasks are best performed seated and others standing.

• Greater reach is required than can be achieved in the seated position.

• When working at a high bench where a conventional chair is not practical.

• There is inadequate knee room while sitting.

• Greater range of motion is necessary to handle large objects.

• Frequent reaches greater than 6 inches above the work surface are required.

• Extended forward reaches of 15 inches or more are required.

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