Working height

The term working height describes the distance between the access level (e.g. to a machine) and the working area where activities are conducted. Working height will vary according to the operator's posture (standing or sitting), the type of Work being carried out and the loads that are involved. It will also depend on the visual and physical requirements associated with the activity.

• In the case of standing work, more intricate activities require bench and working heights of between 1.20 and 1.50 metres. This relieves pressure on muscles in the torso, as operators can rest their weight on their elbows.
• Light-duty tasks that do not require a great deal of visual acuity are best carried out at bench heights between 0.90 and 1.15 metres, while the working height should be from 0.95 to 1.20 metres.
• Heavy-duty tasks that require a great deal of physical Strength are best carried out at low working heights. Handling cumbersome objects requires more freedom of movement. Bench heights of between 0.75 and 1.05 metres are advisable for both, working height should be around 0.90 to 1.15 metres.

Working height can vary when it comes to work that is carried out on a less frequent basis (such as repair and cleaning operations).