With the increased use of cars, computers and television has contributed to chair disease.

Due to this, some people are either sitting or lying down for 20 hours a day, raising their risk of heart disease, obesity, diabetes and some cancers.

Recent work production studies indicate that workers are more efficient when they stand to work. However, standing all day is not recommended either.

Ideally, workers should alternate their work postures, standing when the situation is suitable to do so, and taking regular, short stretching breaks during times of prolonged sitting.

Some workplaces have introduced routine stretching exercises throughout the day to encourage movement, promote a healthy workplace and build rapport between staff.

There are many resources for employers to research how to manage rest breaks based on the level of strain an employee may face in their day to day work.

With email and internet now providing an employee with access to most of what they require at their fingertips, more and more people are over sitting as there is a reduced need to move about the office.

This can result in greater absence of employees and a risk workers compensation claims for sprain and strain injuries.

Employees who move more throughout the day will be, less stressed, more alert and pain free, more productive and make fewer mistakes.  This is a benefit to both the employee and employer and good reason to ensure your employees are taking the breaks they need.

Should you require any further information regarding safety please contact us on 1300 720 004 or [email protected]

Information in HR Advice Online guides and blog posts is meant purely for educational discussion of human resources issues. It contains only general information about human resources matters and due to factors such as government legislation changes, may not be up-to-date at the time of reading. It is not legal advice and should not be treated as such.