What are the best ergonomic design practices for people who stand for long periods of time?

2 How to choose the right footwear

When standing for long periods of time, having the right footwear is essential for ergonomic design. The right shoes can support your feet, ankles, knees, hips, and spine, while cushioning the impact of walking or standing on hard surfaces. Poorly fitting shoes can cause blisters, corns, bunions, heel spurs, and plantar fasciitis. When choosing footwear, look for a snug but not tight fit that does not pinch or rub your toes, heels, or arches. Additionally, select a flexible and breathable material that adapts to your foot shape and allows air circulation. A low or flat heel is also ideal for evenly distributing your weight and avoiding pressure on your toes or calves. Additionally, opt for a cushioned and shock-absorbing sole that reduces the impact of walking or standing on hard surfaces. Finally, make sure the tread is slip-resistant and durable to prevent slipping and tripping on wet or uneven floors.

4 How to use ergonomic accessories

Using ergonomic accessories can be an important factor to consider when standing for long periods of time. These accessories can include mats, stools, chairs, footrests, monitors, keyboards, mice, and headsets. They can help reduce pressure, vibration, noise and fatigue while standing. A mat can provide cushioning, insulation and traction for feet and legs on hard or cold floors. A stool or chair with a backrest, footrest and adjustable height can provide an opportunity to sit or lean occasionally. A footrest with a non-slip surface and adjustable angle allows for feet elevation or rest. A monitor with adjustable height, tilt and brightness enables clear and comfortable viewing while standing. An ergonomic keyboard and mouse with the right shape, size and layout allow for easy and accurate typing and clicking. Finally, a headset with noise-canceling feature and comfortable fit allows for hands-free communication while standing.

5 How to practice good posture

Good posture is an essential ergonomic design factor for those standing for long periods of time. It helps maintain balance, alignment, and stability, while preventing muscle tension, joint stress, and spinal compression. Additionally, good posture can improve breathing, digestion, and circulation, and boost confidence and mood. To practice good posture, keep your head up and eyes forward; shoulders back and relaxed; chest out and abdomen in; hips aligned with shoulders; knees slightly bent and feet flat on the floor; and weight evenly distributed on both feet. Avoid excessive head tilting or turning, shrugging or hunching shoulders, arching or slumping your back, shifting or twisting hips, locking or crossing legs, and leaning or shifting on one leg.

6 How to take breaks and stretch

Taking breaks and stretching is a final ergonomic design factor for people who stand for long periods of time. Doing so can help relieve fatigue, stiffness, and soreness that can accumulate from standing. Breaks and stretches can also help refresh the mind, restore energy, and prevent boredom and burnout. To take breaks and stretch, try taking short and frequent breaks throughout the workday to rest, hydrate, snack, or socialize. You could also take longer and less frequent breaks to walk, exercise, meditate, or relax. Additionally, stretch your muscles and joints before, during, and after your workday. Stretch gently and gradually for at least 10 to 15 seconds per muscle group, avoiding bouncing or jerking movements. Repeat as needed.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?