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In an emergency control centre, control room or security post, time never stands still. As these workplaces are used intensively 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by different people, stricter health and safety requirements apply than in a standard office. Good ergonomic design is not a luxury here, but an absolute necessity to maintain alertness and prevent physical complaints.
In this blog, we’ll delve into the specific health and safety requirements and guidelines for 24-hour workplaces and explain what a healthy workplace must meet.
Why are the health and safety requirements for 24-hour workplaces different?
In a standard workplace, we assume an 8-hour working day. In a 24-hour workplace, the furniture is subjected to three times the load. Furthermore, different operators with varying body types take turns using the equipment. The Working Conditions Act therefore stipulates that the workplace must be fully adjustable to suit the individual user, so that everyone — regardless of height or build — can adopt a healthy working posture.
An overview of the key health and safety requirements
1. Dynamically adjustable workstations (sit-stand)
One of the most important requirements for a 24-hour workstation is the ability to change posture. A workstation that complies with health and safety regulations must be electrically height-adjustable (in the Netherlands, between 65 cm and 130 cm). Working regularly whilst standing, alternating with a sit-stand stool, promotes blood circulation and keeps the operator alert during long (night) shifts.
2. The 24-hour chair: sturdy and ergonomic
A standard office chair does not meet the health and safety requirements for an ergonomic workplace. Specific 24-hour chairs, such as the RH Axia Focus, must be used.
- Requirements: the chair must be able to withstand intensive use; therefore, a 24-hour chair has a more robust mechanism than standard office chairs. In addition, the chair must offer more adjustment options for the backrest, lumbar support and armrests than a standard chair. An adjustable headrest is also desirable to provide good support for different viewing angles.
- Upholstery: opt for hard-wearing, breathable materials that are easy to clean between shifts. A minimum Martindale rating of 500,000 is recommended.
3. Lines of sight and monitor placement
In control rooms, operators often work with multiple monitors. The Working Conditions Act stipulates that screens must be positioned at the correct viewing distance and height to prevent neck and eye problems.
Tip: use adjustable monitor arms, or a monitor rail that can be adjusted for depth and height, so that each user can position the screens to suit their own needs, taking into account the viewing angle and lighting conditions.
4. Environmental factors: light and sound
In addition to the furniture, environmental factors are also covered by health and safety requirements:
- Lighting: there must be sufficient (dimmable) lighting, adapted to the time of day (circadian rhythm).
- Acoustics: in a space where communication takes place 24/7, good sound absorption is essential for maintaining concentration.
The benefits of an ergonomic 24-hour layout
Compliance with health and safety regulations is not only a legal obligation, it also delivers immediate results:
- Lower sickness absence: fewer back, neck and shoulder complaints amongst staff.
- Greater alertness: operators make fewer mistakes when the workplace is comfortable and supportive.
- Sustainability: specialist 24-hour furniture lasts much longer under heavy use, which ultimately reduces overall costs.
CREON: specialists in 24-hour workspaces
Fitting out a control room or monitoring centre requires a bespoke approach. At CREON, we design and create 24-hour workstations that not only meet all statutory health and safety requirements, but also boost your team’s efficiency. From ergonomic workstations to the best 24-hour chairs: we create an environment where your staff can perform at their best, day and night.
Does your workplace comply with health and safety guidelines?
Are you wondering whether your 24-hour workplace still meets current health and safety requirements? Get in touch with our experts for bespoke ergonomic advice.
