Sit/stand stool: What device can help my husband work despite his difficulty standing?

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What device can help my husband work despite his difficulty standing?

Question

For all of his life my husband has worked in a factory in a role that requires long periods of standing. Recently, however, he has started to experience some chronic hip pain, making it difficult for him to stand for long periods of time and affecting his ability to work. Can you recommend a device that will help support his hips while he works?

Our answer

Standing for long periods of time can be very strenuous on the body. It is possible that your husband may benefit from using a sit/stand stool, a device that allows a worker with back or hip impairments or decreased leg strength to work in a supported standing position.  Below are direct links to a few examples of sit/stand stools currently available on the market:

  • Ergonomic Standing Stool – 5 Blade Style by Interior (at globalindustrial.ca) is a sit/stand stool that is designed specifically for those who work for long periods on an assembly line. The price of this product is about $215 (CDN), plus a shipping fee.
  • ErgoPerfect Relief/Sit-Stand by Ergomat Inc. (at Special Needs Computers) is a sit-stand seat designed for several different working environments, including assembly lines. The price of this product is about $350 to $400 (CDN), plus a shipping fee.
  • Sit/Stand Work Stool by ULINE (at uline.ca) is designed to reduce leg and back strain in warehouse settings where it is not always possible to sit down. The price of this device is about $300 (CDN), plus a shipping fee.

Your husband may also want to speak with his employer to ensure that any additional and necessary accommodations (such as a modified break schedule or alternative duties) are made if required.

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