Comparison of Sedentary Behaviors in Office Workers Using Sit-Stand Tables With and Without Semiautomated Position Changes

Author(s)

Barbieri, Dechristian Franca ; Srinivasan, Divya ; Mathiassen, Svend Erik ; Oliveira, Ana Beatriz

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: HUMAN FACTORS; v. 59, n. 5, p. 782-795, AUG 2017.
• Web of Science Citations: 7

Abstract

Objective: We compared usage patterns of two different electronically controlled sit-stand tables during a 2-month intervention period among office workers. Background: Office workers spend most of their working time sitting, which is likely detrimental to health. Although the introduction of sit-stand tables has been suggested as an effective intervention to decrease sitting time, limited evidence is available on usage patterns of sit-stand tables and whether patterns are influenced by table configuration. Method: Twelve workers were provided with standard sit-stand tables (nonautomated table group) and 12 with semiautomated sit-stand tables programmed to change table position according to a preset pattern, if the user agreed to the system-generated prompt (semiautomated table group). Table position was monitored continuously for 2 months after introducing the tables, as a proxy for sit-stand behavior. Results: On average, the table was in a sit position for 85% of the workday in both groups; this percentage did not change significantly during the 2-month period. Switches in table position from sit to stand were, however, more frequent in the semiautomated table group than in the nonautomated table group (0.65 vs. 0.29 hr(-1); p = .001). Conclusion: Introducing a semiautomated sit-stand table appeared to be an attractive alternative to a standard sit-stand table, because it led to more posture variation. Application: A semiautomated sit-stand table may effectively contribute to making postures more variable among office workers and thus aid in alleviating negative health effects of extensive sitting. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 12/24502-2 - Does posture variation during computer use improve physical exposure of workers?: effects of using adjustable tables - sit/stand
• Grantee: Dechristian França Barbieri
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• FAPESP's process: 15/19504-4 - Does posture variation during computer use improve physical exposure of workers? - Effects of using adjustable tables - sit/stand
• Grantee: Dechristian França Barbieri
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Doctorate