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Millions of UK workers are at risk from serious health problems caused by prolonged standing at work, in conditions described as worse than those in Victorian times, according to the Trades Union Congress.

This was revealed in an article in the TUC-backed health and safety magazine Hazards, which states that, despite calls at the end of the 19th century for action to be taken about the dire health consequences for London's shop assistants from constant standing, the problems are as acute today as they were then.

More than 2 million sick days are lost every year due to lower-limb disorders, says the TUC, and workers who spend a long time on their feet, be it standing or walking, are at risk of varicose veins, poor circulation and swelling in the feet and legs, foot problems, joint damage, heart and circulatory problems and pregnancy difficulties.

'It's quite incredible that some staff today would be better off under Victorian working conditions,’ says TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber. ‘There really isn't any need for the excessive standing on the job that this report highlights. Most jobs don't need people to be on their feet all day and bosses need to get over the fact that someone sat down is protecting their health, not being lazy.’

'Simple adjustments to the way millions of people work will save countless sick days each year and stop British workers from, in some cases, dying on their feet.'

For workers at risk of standing-related health problems, the article offers the following guidelines:

• adjustable height work surface. If the work surface is not adjustable, install a platform to raise a shorter worker and a pedestal to raise the work piece for a taller worker

• room for workers to change body positions

• a foot-rail or footrest enabling workers to shift weight from one leg to the other

• elbow supports for precision work

• padded kneeler in front of workers allowing them to kneel slightly forward while performing tasks in front of them

• choice to work sitting or standing at will (sit/stand stool)

• a seat for resting if standing is unavoidable

Basic principles of good job design for standing work include:

• job rotation among a group of workers

• job enlargement to give workers more and varied tasks to increase body positions and motions

• avoidance of extreme bending, stretching and twisting

• work paced appropriately with frequent rest breaks

Hard, concrete floors are about the worst possible surface. Materials that provide flexibility such as wood, cork, carpeting, or rubber are gentler on workers' feet. Concrete or metal floors can be covered with mats. Mats should have slanted edges to help prevent tripping. Machines should be mounted to reduce vibration through the floor. Thick foam-rubber mats should be avoided. Too much cushioning can cause fatigue and increase the risk of tripping.

The correct footwear is important. Footwear should not change the shape of the foot, have enough space to move toes, have shock absorbing cushioned insoles and heels no higher than 5cm (2 inches). The acid test of any measures is user opinion - if the workers say it doesn't work, then other solutions must be found.

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