Sedentary work

Sedentary work

Sedentary work, such as prolonged sitting, poses significant health risks in the transport industry, with drivers sitting for most of their shift.

Australian workers spend approximately 76% of their time at work sitting (or 5 hours per day). A quarter of the population say they spend 8 hours a day sitting.

Sedentary work and long working hours can result in a low level of wellness, as it may lead to workers having a poor diet, low levels of exercise, increased alcohol and drug use, or fatigue.

Interestingly, exercise performed outside of work does not negate the risks factors of prolonged sitting. Safe Work Australia has identified sedentary work as a priority issue that can affect workers’ health and safety.

The Sedentary Work: Evidence on an emergent work health and safety issue report focusses on sedentary behaviour in the workplace – not just among office workers, but also in the manufacturing, transport and storage, construction, agriculture forestry and fishing, and health and community services sectors.

The report suggests occupational sitting is likely to be a common hazard in Australian workplaces.

Occupational sitting is linked to significant negative health and work outcomes and is increasingly being recognised in the community and by international authorities as an important issue that needs attention.

Sedentary work can increase the risk of:

  • cardiovascular disease
  • some cancers
  • type 2 diabetes
  • musculoskeletal disorders.

When sitting for long periods, workers report feeling tired, less productive and unhealthy.

What can be done in the workplace?

There are several initiatives you can bring to the workplace to enhance the mental and physical wellbeing of your workers, such as:

  • demonstrating a top-down commitment to health programs
  • introducing flexible work hours to allow for meal breaks and exercise on the road
  • nominating one driver to promote the health message among other drivers
  • implementing a mental and physical health policy that includes fatigue management
  • having pre-employment health checks.

A successful workplace health program can have many benefits, including:

  • increased engagement at work
  • job satisfaction
  • improved staff retention
  • enhanced efficiency
  • better corporate image.

More information