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Understanding Sedentary Work: Legal Definitions and Key Insights
Definition & meaning
Sedentary work refers to jobs that primarily involve sitting, with limited walking and standing. According to the Social Security Administration, this type of work typically requires lifting no more than ten pounds at a time and may involve occasional tasks such as carrying small articles like files or tools. While sitting is the main activity, a sedentary job may also require occasional walking and standing, generally not exceeding two hours of these activities within an eight-hour workday.
Table of content
Legal use & context
Sedentary work is a term often used in the context of disability evaluations by the Social Security Administration. It plays a crucial role in determining eligibility for disability benefits. Understanding whether a job qualifies as sedentary can influence legal decisions in civil matters, particularly those involving disability claims. Users may find helpful resources and forms on platforms like US Legal Forms to assist in navigating these processes.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: An office worker who spends most of their day at a desk, answering emails and making phone calls, is performing sedentary work. They may occasionally need to walk to a meeting room or stand to print documents.
Example 2: A data entry clerk who sits at a computer for the majority of their shift, with short breaks to stand or walk to the restroom, is also engaged in sedentary work.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Key Differences
Sedentary Work
Jobs that primarily involve sitting with limited walking and standing.
Focuses on the physical demands of the job, particularly lifting and mobility.
Light Work
Jobs that require lifting up to 20 pounds and may involve more walking and standing.
Light work allows for more physical activity compared to sedentary work.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you believe your job qualifies as sedentary work and are considering applying for disability benefits, gather documentation of your job duties and physical limitations. You may find it beneficial to consult with a legal professional who specializes in disability claims. Additionally, US Legal Forms offers various legal templates that can help you navigate the application process effectively.
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Typical sitting duration: about 6 hours in an 8-hour workday
Typical walking/standing duration: up to 2 hours in an 8-hour workday
Key takeaways
FAQs
Jobs that primarily involve sitting and require minimal walking and standing, typically not exceeding two hours of these activities in an eight-hour workday.
It is a critical factor in determining whether an individual qualifies for disability benefits based on their ability to perform work-related tasks.
No, not all office jobs are sedentary. Some may require more physical activity than others.