© COBA Europe

In public health circles, prolonged sitting has been dubbed the new smoking. Research suggests prolonged sitting can contribute to diabetes, heart disease and other health conditions.

Professional Safety has published two articles on the topic: "Prolonged Sitting: Current Concepts on the Physiological - Effects of Seated Postures at Work Accident Investigation" by Christopher Studebaker and Brian Murphy; and "Standing Up: Redesigning the Workplace to Address Obesity Healthcare Safety" by Lance Perry.

COBA Europe, a manufacturer of antifatigue matting, recently published an eBook that examines the potential health effects of prolonged static work positions. #StandUpFor Health presents facts and statistics associated with prolonged sitting, while noting that prolonged standing can have detrimental affects as well.

"While it is widely recommended that we should stand more, there are risks associated with regular prolonged standing, including musculoskeletal disorders," the firm explains, noting that common ailments related to extended standing include joint damage, low back pain, plantar fasciitis and hypertension.

In addition to reviewing how prolonged static positions can contribute to lost productivity and fatigue, the eBook shares a case study on the use of antifatigue matting and offers tips for safer sitting and standing.

Access the free document on the COBA website.