Why retail workers are at risk

The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety notes that prolonged standing can cause sore feet, swelling of the legs, varicose veins, muscle fatigue and low back pain. Retail staff also handle large volumes of stock, often from floor level or high shelves. OSHA includes retail workers among those exposed to workplace violence, particularly where staff handle money or work late. These risks are well known and largely manageable.

01Long periods standing

Standing still is harder on the body than walking, because the calf muscles that pump blood back from the legs are not working. The NHS describes varicose veins as swollen, enlarged veins, usually in the legs, and lists standing for long periods among the factors that make them more likely.

What helps

  • Shift weight, walk and change position often during long stints at a till.
  • Use a sit-stand stool and anti-fatigue mat if your employer can provide them.
  • Wear cushioned, supportive shoes with a low heel.
  • Raise your legs for a while after work and stay active on days off.

02Lifting and stacking stock

Unloading deliveries, stacking shelves and lifting heavy items such as drinks crates involve repeated bending, reaching and twisting. Manual handling guidance recommends reducing the load and the distance, and avoiding lifts from floor level or above the shoulder.

What helps

  • Use roll cages, trolleys and step stools rather than over-reaching.
  • Split heavy cases or ask for help with them.
  • Kneel or squat for low shelves and keep the load close.
  • Store the heaviest stock at waist height in storerooms.

03Customer aggression and irregular shifts

Abuse, threats and violence from customers are a growing concern in retail. Irregular rotas, early starts and late finishes disrupt sleep. HSE's stress guidance points to lack of support and control as key risk factors.

What helps

  • Follow your store's procedure: do not physically challenge shoplifters.
  • Report every incident, including verbal abuse, so it is recorded and acted on.
  • Use panic alarms, radios or body cameras where provided.
  • Ask for rotas with enough rest between late and early shifts.

Weekly checklist for retail workers

  • Change position or walk at least every 20 to 30 minutes at the till.
  • Wear supportive, cushioned shoes and replace them when worn.
  • Use trolleys and step stools for stock.
  • Report any abuse or threats the same day.
  • Raise your legs for 15 minutes after long shifts.
  • Plan sleep around early-late shift changes.

When to see a professional

  • Aching, heavy or swollen legs, or visible bulging veins.
  • Foot or heel pain that lasts weeks.
  • Back pain that does not ease or limits your work.
  • Anxiety, poor sleep or low mood after aggressive incidents.

A swollen, painful, warm calf or sudden breathlessness can be a blood clot and needs urgent medical help.

Where ONU fits

ONU brings your activity, sleep and recovery trends into one app, so you can see how changing rotas affect your sleep and recovery. It does not detect circulation problems; leg symptoms should be checked by a doctor.

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Common questions

Does standing at work cause varicose veins?

Standing for long periods is a recognised factor that makes varicose veins more likely, alongside genetics, age, pregnancy and weight. Moving regularly and raising your legs can ease symptoms.

What shoes are best for standing all day?

Shoes with good cushioning, arch support, a low heel and enough room for the toes. Replace them when the cushioning wears out.

What should I do if a customer becomes aggressive?

Stay calm, keep distance, do not physically intervene, follow your store's procedure and get help from colleagues or security. Report the incident afterwards.

Sources and further reading

Educational information drawn from the public-health sources listed on this page. It is not a diagnosis, a treatment plan or a guarantee that you will avoid an illness or injury. ONU does not diagnose, treat or prevent disease. Speak to a qualified professional about anything that concerns you, and follow the rules of your employer, sport or local health service.