The health of thousands of workers is being damaged because they have to stand for long periods at work, according to the TUC.
The trade union organisation said that standing for too long contributes to 200,000 workers with leg ailments being off sick for two million days a year.
Among their problems are varicose veins, swelling of the legs and feet, joint damage and circulatory problems. The TUC believes many employers still think their staff are not working properly if they are sitting down.
The organisation said problems caused by standing were just as widespread as in Victorian times, when doctors campaigned for shopworkers to be provided with seats.
“Lots of people experience discomfort when standing around all day,” said Hugh Robertson, a health and safety specialist at the TUC. “But very few people realise it can contribute to a major illness or injury.”
