
Office fitness
I have been approached about allowing a treadmill at an office desk in a cubicle (see attached sample photo). My mind immediately sees a trip hazard and machine guarding concerns around getting caught in/by the conveyor belt, equipment inspections and cleaning for fire and other hazards, LOTO, and more.
Would you allow it at your workplace? Why or why not?

Comments (11)

No. Simple.

I wouldn't allow this. Beside the trip and fall issues, I see this leading to ergonomics issues with the user trying to type and read while using it.

Nope would not allow however I think it would be ok to have a room designed for such things like we do for ergonomics.

Yeah I would lean towards not allowing that…seems a bit extra

In agreement with all of the previous comments. I think this presents a major risk of injury. Maybe a small foot peddler elliptical thing instead. Going for an actual walk would be more productive and give the employee a change of scenery which is mentally stimulating!

I would not approve this. There are some recent studies on the negative effects of these treadmill desks if you need supporting evidence for your decision. Aside from the safety hazards you listed, performance and reading/writing/typing productivity are negatively impacted.

I’d worry that others would want one after seeing this… if you have a company policy about ergonomic office setups, this is likely classified as a want vs a need, so it’s buyer beware and they’re responsible for it etc.
Personally, I wouldn’t want to allow it!! Based on what others have said here, maybe the person would use it during calls, and in that case, they could walk around or go outside instead?

This seems more like punishment to me....

I 100% agree. I find it hard to concentrate when I'm sitting at my desk. That's why it is hard for me to chew gum, walk, and breathe all at the same time. One of my co-workers has one of these and I just don't get it. Maybe on lunch break while you're catching your latest show on Amazon Prime or Redbox. LOL
Aside from the obvious trip and fall issue, I don't see how a person can read and type (while walking) without tremendous eye strain from the motion and constant refocusing. That idea is a hard no for a business environment where a fall could become a recordable injury.