While the general workplace problem is that people spend too much of their working day sitting down, the exact opposite is true for jobs at the point of sale (POS). People working there spend most of their time on their feet. Standing and short walking distances coupled with frequent changes of direction put strain on joints and lead to tensions in the muscular support structures. Office and warehouse activities bring their own additional stress situations. Unlike office work, we are actually dealing with a varied and multi-faceted activity. However, most of the work is done standing up, which brings with it the negative effects mentioned. 

For more than 20 years now, the Institute for Health and Ergonomics in Nuremberg has been busy with the ergonomic optimization of workplaces. The health of the working person is constantly at the centre of their work. Whether in the office or in industry and the trades, one thing is always true: every initiative to improve working conditions must apply the existing norms and regulations and be fully comprehensible for those involved. 

On-site ergonomics: practical ergonomics

Technical improvements only have a value if they are also applied properly. This is what experts means when they talk about “behavioural ergonomics”. The goal can only be achieved in the long term through sustainable anchoring of ergonomically correct behaviour. 

Tip 1: Shoes – best foot forward 

Shoes are particularly important. They should be comfortable and, where possible, also have a specially formed footbed. This allows them to prevent premature fatigue when standing for long periods of time and the support they provide will also have a soothing effect on the joints. Modern work shoes combine comfort, functionality and style. Despite all fashion-consciousness, the female foot also enjoys making it through the day without heels.

Tip 2: Floor – a spring in your step all day long

Behind the counter, mats make it easier to stand on hard floors, as the elasticity of the material takes the pressure off joints. Small motion impulses are triggered that break up unhealthy stationary postures and stimulate the muscles into making compensatory movements. The buzzword is ‘floors’ – a considerable amount of research has been carried out into them and, as a study by the IGR discovered. Modern elastic floor coverings contribute in a lasting way to reducing the burden on the locomotor system when walking and standing.

Tip 3: Sitting – staying active while seated

What can be done to prevent tiresome periods of standing still? In order to take weight off the joints of the locomotor system, a standing aid can be used in areas where sitting is not permitted. What applies to sitting on an office chair also applies to standing aids: feet flat on the ground, position yourself as close to the desk as possible. Calibrate the height in such a way that the lower arms rest lightly on the arm rests (which are level with the upper surface of the desk). Elbows and knees should be at around 90 degrees. Dynamic sitting comes recommended and consists of changing your sitting position more frequently from a relaxed, reclined position through to perching on the forward seat edge. Ensure you use the correct counter-pressure for the brace function of the seatback and try as far as possible not to lock this. The best thing is to always remain in motion, even when seated.

Tip 4: Bending, lifting, and carrying – the right technique 

When lifting heavy items, always try to lift from a squatted position, not with your back. Always carry weights close to the body and avoid unbalanced loads. Use transport devices whenever possible. Also, avoid excessive or one-sided bending or stretching when filling or taking items off shelves, whether this is in the storeroom or in the sales room. Pay attention to whether ladders and climbing aids are stable. Even if it needs to be done quickly, always follow occupational health and safety regulations and those of the trade associations!

Tip 5: Movement and relaxation – it’s all in the variety

Standing is also something that can be learned: stand up straight, take your shoulders back and then sink them downwards. This ensures a relaxed posture and easy breathing. The most important thing is to keep moving: circle your shoulders and hips, shake out your legs and rise up on your tiptoes. Make sure you get enough breaks – and that you take them. A short walk will provide for movement and fresh air.

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