Business: 'Healthy' desks help increase productivity

Western Sydney-based Snack Brands Australia is revolutionising its workplace by implementing a healthy change through the addition of standing desks.

Andrew Wilson, the company's work, health and safety manager, said the new desks, which can be changed from a sitting to a standing position, have helped to create a better workplace.

"They have improved the health, energy levels, digestion and overall wellness of our employees," Mr Wilson said.

"I ordered the desks [called Varidesk] to improve the health and well being of our staff and since we've had the standing desks they've been used non-stop.

"Our staff love having the freedom to sit down or stand up at work."

After the company acquired 60 standing desks, that Mr Wilson said "greatly help staff with pre-existing back injuries, and increases productivity".

The equipment sits atop of an existing office desk and can switch between positions in three seconds.

Nutritionist and health expert Susie Burrell said standing up is better for the workers' necks and backs.

"Not only does standing help to promote better posture, but with the right desk, positioning you will take a lot of pressure off your neck," she said.

‘‘Sitting down all day is literally reducing your metabolic rate because the less work our muscles have to do, the fewer calories we burn and the more likely we are to be losing muscle mass over time — ultimately reducing the number of calories we need each day.’’

Sitting for extended periods of time can also be associated with conditions like cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and deep vein thrombosis.

■ Safe Work Australia offers a manual and a checklist to help employers choose appropriate office furniture.