Evaluation of sit-stand workstations in an office setting: a randomised controlled trial

This study evaluated the impact of providing a sit-stand workstation on various health markers and behaviours in office workers.

The intervention was the installation of a specific sit-stand workstation (WorkFit-A with Worksurface + by Ergotron Ltd) on participants' existing desks for 8 weeks. Participants were not given specific instructions or targets for how long to use the workstation in either the sitting or standing position. They received basic face-to-face training on ergonomic use and a link to manufacturer guidelines. No other behaviour change techniques were delivered.

The comparators were participants who continued their usual work practices without a sit-stand workstation. They were offered the opportunity to receive a workstation after the study concluded.

The outcome measures included:

• Primary Outcome: Workplace sitting time (measured in minutes per 8-hour workday).
• Secondary Behavioural Outcomes: Workplace standing time, walking time, and time spent in other activities (all measured in minutes per 8-hour workday).
• Cardiometabolic Outcomes:
  • Blood lipids: Total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides.
  • Blood glucose regulation: Fasting glucose and insulin.
  • Blood pressure: Systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure.
  • Vascular function: Flow-mediated dilation (FMD), a measure of endothelial function (how well blood vessels expand and contract).
• Musculoskeletal Outcomes: Self-reported musculoskeletal discomfort/pain.
• Acceptability and Feasibility: Assessed via questionnaires and interviews to understand user experience, impact on productivity, and factors influencing workstation use.

• Sample Size: 47 participants were randomised in total. 26 were assigned to the intervention group, and 21 to the control group. For the primary outcome analysis, 23 intervention participants and 21 control participants provided sufficient data.
• Population: Asymptomatic full-time office workers aged 18 years or older.
• Exclusion Criteria: Participants were excluded if they had:
  • Any cardiovascular or metabolic disease.
  • Were taking any medication