Sit/Stand Dispatch Workstations - The Split-level Controversy

Split-level workstations are the norm in dispatch centers. The reason for splitting the levels is to offer separate adjustability to two areas of the workstation:

• that surface which holds the keyboard & mouse
• that surface which holds the monitors

The operator's desire to go from sit to stand during the course of the day to relieve stress has spawned a vertical market for technical furniture that is specific to the dispatch industry. There are many manufacturers who offer unique split-level solutions to address this need. Of course, the solutions offered make the furniture unique and very expensive. Without mentioning names, below are some examples.

We want you to understand that these systems have been created by manufacturers to define a dispatch standard but we do not necessarily subscribe to the belief that they are the safest and best ergonomic solutions.

Here is our reasoning:

Pinch Points - Inherent to the split-level are dangerous pinch points where the two surfaces meet. Another pinch point is where the worksurface lands on the stationary support cabinetry. Papers, pens, wires and fingers are commonly crunched when the operator is busy focusing on day to day operation.

Limited Mobility - Monitors are typically placed on the back surface. Although the surface can be adjusted up and down, the monitors can not be pulled forward across the split level seam. This design is a throwback to the old CRT days. Obviously, everyone does not have the same vision; so, without the ability to adjust the focal distance.....You get the idea!

Linear Actuators - All of these systems are created with linear actuators (basically motors, sprockets and extension rods). These mechanisms need legs that are similar to table legs that telescope under the movable surfaces. These legs limit the amount of legroom for the operator. Another problem with linear actuators is that they frequently go out of adjustment or slip a tooth on the sprocket because of uneven load distribution. It is a given that people "rest the rears" wherever they can.

Cable Management - When the surfaces move up and down, all of the cables that come from the CPUs monitor, keyboards & mice are continually stretched and folded to prevent them from be pinched. Over time, this has an effect on the cables. With these systems, the wiring is exposed and unsightly. Commonly, separate partitions similar to systems furniture panels are used to hide the back of the workstation. This limits access to the rear of the workstation.

CPU Storage - Many manufactures offer CPU storage in cabinets that look similar to drawer pedestals. These cabinets take up a considerable amount of space under the console and again limit leg room laterally along the console. Some manufacturers offer separate electronics towers that sit behind the console to house CPUs.

Working Depth - The split level design limits the amount of usable worksurface. The operator works an 8-10 hour shift sitting and standing at a worksurface that is approximately 14" deep. Try spreading out a chart or opening a binder and laying it on the desk. This is counter productive to normal workflow productivity. In any other environment, this would be considered cruel and unusual punishment. Are we to believe that this is the best they could come up with.

Our conclusion is that the principle that creates this norm is seriously flawed. It fuels the idea that split-level workstations are better for the operator than traditional desks. In essence, its a con to create a vertical niche in the technical workstation market. Of course, all of this extra hardware comes at a healthy price and doesn't significantly improve productivity.

The Americon Way

In order to be competitive when bidding specifications defined by others, Americon does offer a number of split-level solutions for sit/stand environments. Some are mechanical lifts and others are motorized. Some move the work surface and monitors up and down separately and use memory controls and some move only the keyboard section. Let's be frank! We do not believe that sitting at a workstation with limited workspace is a good ergonomic solution. The Americon way is a very deep worksurface with monitors suspended on a slatwall that takes up very little space. Note both split-level examples.

Why ours are different!   Many years of research shows that operators begin a  shift by setting up for their individual needs. If the tools are wrong, the job gets extremely difficult and the environment can become untenable. Leg room is extremely important, so if you insist on split-level; Americon has developed a workstation that doesn't have metal legs like the typical table system. The workstation has all of its lifting components built into its robust base. The base unit can also store computers. The area under the worksurface is free from any obstructions and there are many stand alone peripheral cabinets that can be added to either side.

The full lift system is the best scenario - We favor this because there are some indigenous benefits to a workstation that doesn't have a split in the worksurface. This approach eliminates the pinch point dangers that are inherent where movable surfaces meet or cross. Moving the whole console also maintains the same relationship between the operator and his tools throughout the transition from sit to stand. Stored CPUs and other integrated peripherals move up and down with the console, so the movement of cables has been virtually eliminated.

The CPUs are stored in the main base cavity. We mount computers on racks attached to the inside of  inspection doors. When the door is closed, the CPU faces sideways to maximize leg space. When the door is opened, the CPU faces forward for access to the drives and cables. The console has both front & rear access doors so large numbers of CPUs can be stored without the need for extra storage cabinets. Unlike linear actuators, our fully hydraulic lifting system is immune to weight distribution problems. The lifting legs are imbedded in the sidewalls of the workstation and all lines and wires are safely shielded from accidental snagging. The benefit is a rugged and versatile sit/stand workstation that doesn't encroach into valuable leg room and maximizes the amount of worksurface.

The idea that we would trade away all of that useable space just doesn't make good ergonomic sense. Some say that the split-level approach is just a mechanism for creating a vertical market. Having said that, there are many other things that we do feel are as important to the dispatchers environment.

This white paper was prepared by Bill Farah, President of Americon

©2009 Americon