Prolonged standing at work

In 2010, the actions of two trade unionists at the BBC resulted in working conditions at contract catering company Aramark being investigated by the HSE. In 2008, the company ordered the removal of chairs from some of its catering outlets, meaning that staff operating the tills had to stand for hours without a break. The HSE ordered that the seats be reinstalled.

The HSE guidance, Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, states: “If work can or must be done sitting, seats which are suitable for the people using them and for the work they do should be provided.” These regulations apply generally across all workplaces.