Workstation Height Considerations
The height of a workstation depends on the task being performed. For light assembly tasks the work station shoulder be around elbow height, which is approximately 41 inches for men and 38 inches for women. For tasks that required large downward or sideward forces (i.e. drilling, hammering, clamping, grinding, bending pipe/rods, cutting with shears, etc) workstation height should be about four inches lower than the elbow, which is approximately 37 inches for men and 34 inches for women.
If the exertion is very heavy, then decreasing the workstation height to approximately 30 inches may be appropriate. If the force that is requires is a large upward force (i.e. pulling nails/screws, pipe bending, removing fasteners, lifting clamped materials, etc) then the workstation should be about 32 inches. For precision or visually demanding tasks, the workstation should be about four inches above the elbow, which is approximately 45 inches for men and about 42 inches for women.
Why Does it Matter?
Posture-related problems often occur at the lower back and shoulder-arm and are strongly influenced by the height at which work tasks are located/performed. Flexed postures increase muscle demand/load and can cause compressive forces to the spine, leading to pain, fatigue, and reduced blood supply to the muscles.
What If I Can’t Adjust My Workstation?
- Reassess the process
- For workstations that are too high:
- Elevate yourself by standing on a sturdy step or platform
- Use clamps to hold materials securely
- For workstations that are too low:
- Sit or kneel using a stool, kneepads/kneeling pad to bring yourself closer to the work
- Elevate the work when able by adding blocks or stands
- Optimize your posture:
- Maintain a neutral spine
- Keep elbows at a comfortable angle
- Organize your tools
- Keep frequently used tools and materials within easy reach to minimize unnecessary bending or stretching
- Take Microbreaks
- Rest, stretch, move around to relieve pressure on your joints and muscles
- Perform counter stretches (pictured to right)
Bottom Line
- Reassess the process
- If adjusting or creating a workstation then consider a set-up where:
- Tools and materials are easily accessible with the least amount of reach
- Twisting and awkward postures are limited
- Foot clearance is at least 6”
- Promote microbreaks
- Promote counterstretches
