In late 2018 the Australian Standards released an update to its Office Desks & Workstations to specifically consider electric sit-to-stand – and UCI has not one but two certified sit-to-stand workstations.

The Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 4442:2018 is now in effect and it replaces the 1997 versions of desk and workstation standards. The latest update puts a renewed focus on the ever-changing and ongoing development happening with workstations, and office design in general, particularly when considering that the standard hasn’t been updated for 21 years. A lot has changed in the workplace over the last two decades!

The key addition to the standard is the inclusion of sit-to-stand desks/workstations with revisions to ergonomics, and performance testing to evaluate suitability for commercial use. This means all workplace furniture will be required to meet these standards to ensure the optimum dimensions, safety, stability, durability and strength with clear requirements for sit-to-stand workstations.

UCI is well ahead of the game with two sit-to-stand workstations – Interchange and Paradigm.

Interchange

Designed by the UCI Design Studio, Interchange is a sit-to-stand workstation system developed around research into sedentary working scenarios. Interchange features an electric mechanism and through its versatile modularity, it brings new levels of workplace flexibility.

Interchange is founded on principles of flexibility and adaptability – it’s up to the designer to configure it in whichever way best suits the setting. In addition, Interchange is manufactured in Australia at UCI’s own factory.

Paradigm

Paradigm was our first sit-to-stand workstation to receive full certification. This product was developed through extensive research that UCI undertook, which found that flexible working environments improve productivity, performance and mental wellbeing in the workplace. This way of looking at office design is a paradigm shift – hence where the inspiration, and name, for the product stems from.

Offering employees the option of a variety of desk options, especially electric sit-to-stand, helps in promoting regular movement leading to a healthier working environment.

Paradigm features a high-quality, built-in electric interface ensuring quick, smooth and quiet transitions.

Both Interchange and Paradigm have been certified to the new Australian Standards by Furntech (AFRDI). AFRDI is an independent not-for-profit technical organisation providing standards testing, product certification and research for buyers and sellers of furniture.

Find out more about UCI’s research into workplace wellbeing now.