Sit/Stand Dispatch Workstations - Full-lift Solution

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 best ergonomic solution. The Americon way is a very deep worksurface with monitors suspended on a slatwall that takes up very little space.

Why ours are different!   Many years of research shows that operators begin a  shift by setting up shop 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 we have developed a workstation that doesn't have metal legs like the typical table systems. Rather our workstations have all of its lifting components built into the robust base. The base unit can also store computers. The area under the worksurface is free from any obstructions and there are many integrated peripheral cabinets can be added.

The full lift system offers unique features - 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.

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.

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.

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.

Return to Sit/Stand

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

©2012 Americon