Offices are installing 'nap boxes' so workers can SLEEP standing up during the shift

Itoki nap boxes are designed for staff to nap while standing up while working long hours in offices in Japan, supporting their heads, their buttocks and knees so they don't fall over

"Nap boxes" allow workers to sleep standing up during shifts (

Image: Itoki Corp)

Offices in Japan are installing "nap boxes" designed to allow staff to sleep standing up.

Weird sleep stations are for white-collar employees who are known to rack up excruciatingly long hours.

Like a sleek water heater, the device supports workers' heads, knees and buttocks so they don't fall.

The creation came from two companies that hoped to encourage a healthier office culture in Japan.

This follows a business matchmaking event where furniture specialist Itoki met plywood supplier Koyoju Gohan.

Saeko Kawashima, Itoki's Director of Communications, believes it offers a healthier solution for those who want to take a little nap during the day.

Japan is known for its work culture (

Picture:

Getty Images)

"In Japan, there are a lot of people who lock themselves in the bathroom for a while, which I don't think is healthy," they said.

"It is better to sleep in a comfortable place."

Drowsiness at work is so widespread that the country uses the expression "inemuri" which refers to those who sleep during the day in order to make a long commute or a full day's work.

Japan has some of the longest working hours in the world.