Prolonged standing in one spot can lead to swollen feet, weakened muscles, according to MOM
Employers in Singapore's retail sector are being urged to provide seating breaks to frontline employees in order to avoid potential health risks after prolonged standing.
The Ministry of Manpower's occupational health experts found that prolonged standing, or standing for more than four hours a day on a fixed location, on a regular basis may lead to swollen feet or weakened muscles in the long run.
To avoid such health complications, Manpower Minister Tan See Leng said MOM previously issued Workplace Safety and Health Guidelines in Improving Ergonomics in the Workplace to encourage employers, including retailers, to provide adequate rest to frontline staff who need to stand as part of their jobs.
"The guidelines include good practices for employers to support employees who need to stand for prolonged periods, such as allowing them to sit and rest at regular intervals, and providing anti-fatigue mats or sit-stand stools," Tan said.
"Retail employers can also improve displays or storage areas for easier access, leverage lifting aids to reduce manual tasks and streamline work processes for greater efficiency."
According to the minister, these measures can help employees, including older workers, perform their tasks safely and effectively.
Tan made the remarks after he was asked in Parliament on whether MOM will introduce voluntary guidelines to encourage retailers to provide employees seating breaks when not attending to customers.
