Physical pain as a teller
I’m struggling with what to do next. The ergonomics of our teller line are dreadful. Can’t fit your knees under the counter and open the drawer. Constantly hopping on and off a hard bar stool in order to get cash, type, run checks etc. Aforementioned bar stool doesn’t have casters. I had to buy a seat pad for it myself - it helps, but being a bar stool it’s not designed for a full day of sitting. Have to rest feet on the edge of a trash can. No anti-fatigue mats. Cables are a tangled mess, impossible to move check scanner, receipt printer etc to a position to reduce awkward stretching. Constantly having to twist to get cash from CR or use cash counter, view monitor etc.
As a consequence, I now have constant back and neck pain, which I’ve never had before in my life. also some shoulder and wrist pain. I’ve had physical therapy which helps, but the copay is more than I earn an hour.
I’ve raised it with management more than once, they‘re not interested. I’m considering leaving but have to wait a few months. Plus the job market in my area is diabolical even at the best of times. I have a masters degree but can’t even get an interview - most decent jobs in this area are defense related and require clearance. Do not want to stay in front line customer service. This is a big bank, but no back office jobs in my state.
Not sure what to do. Should I stick it out, but if so, how can I reduce the pain? Fed up of all my off time being used to rest as I can hardly move. Ask for reduced hours (unlikely to be granted)? Just leave and hope I can find another job? Last week I had a dream we were given proper office chairs and desks - I was gutted when I woke up!