Standing at work - Receptionist

[Charliescar]

Hi
I have been offered a great job as a Receptionist in a busy hairdressers, 30 hours a week . It would involve me standing behind desk all day for 30 hours a week.
I used to work in retail and left as I could not take the standing up all day - I suffered from a bad back, bunions , varicose veins etc from standing . I got a job in a hairdresser as a receptionist with a desk and a chair - I was so pleased .
Unfortunately, we had to move for my DH job , so I had to leave .
I really want the job, do you think I could ask for a stool ?

Why would they want you to stand up all day anyway?

I don’t know ? People seem to think it’s unprofessional to sit in a customer facing roles . I really think I am going to have decline the job . I was aching after a two hour trial , by lower back in agony and my legs felt buzzy . I am 42 .

If you have health issues could you ask them to carry out a risk assessment for you to see what, if any, equipment they could offer like a ergonomic chair. I am not sure it is good for anyone to stand up for 8 hours a day, presumably the hairdressers sit down occasionally, mine sits on a stool when she cuts my hair so I would never expect anyone else to have to stand all day.

www.safeworkers.co.uk/standing-for-long-periods.html

Of course you can ask, that would be very sensible.

It’s interesting - an Apple Watch it reminds you stand for a minute or 2 every hour but not vice versa.

I did look at the standing for long periods - I guess it won’t hurt to ask .
I know people think hairdressers are on their feet all day , but actually they have quite a few opportunities to sit down .
I would get to sit down for half an hour at lunch , but I am not sure that would work for me .