Ergonomics

Note: For home or remote workspace assistance, see Ergonomic Support for Remote Employees Program, Information and Resources and Request an Assessment.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) defines ergonomics as the science of fitting workplace conditions and job demands to the capabilities of the working population. In general terms, ergonomics is about fitting the work/task to the person rather than fitting the person to the work/task.

Ergonomic risk factors include:

  • Awkward postures - Positioning body parts away from their neutral position (or a natural relaxed position)
  • Contact pressure – Prolonged contact between a body part and an object
  • Excessive force or forceful exertion – Physical effort applied to a body part to perform a task
  • Repetitive motion – Repeatedly performing a motion
  • Static postures – Holding a body part in a single position over a long period of time

Ergonomic solutions can improve employee safety, comfort, and productivity. Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) staff are available upon request to provide ergonomic guidance, training, and assessments.

Contacts

Request an Assessment

Ergonomic assessments are available for employees working in both office and non-office positions. 

For office positions, employees can request to use a web-based training and self-assessment program (VelocityEHS® Office Ergonomics). New employees and those working remotely are especially encouraged to use this program. The VelocityEHS® Office Ergonomics program takes about 30-45 minutes to complete and recommendations for ergonomic improvements are provided. This program is recommended for employees who have limited knowledge of ergonomics and are not having any physical concerns. It is also a good option for employees working remotely. The Ergonomic and Safety Coordinator will review the results and follow up with employees, if further assistance is needed. If you are interested in using this program, complete the "Request An Assessment" form below. 

In addition to remote and self-assessments, onsite assessments at work locations or in offices are also available. 

To request an assessment of your office, workspace, or for specific job duties or to request access to VelocityEHS® Office Ergonomics, please use the "Request an Assessment" link below. 

Request An Assessment

Ergonomic Lending Library

EHS maintains a lending library with equipment, hardware, and furniture available for employee trial use of up to 30 days. Lending library items include:

To request an item from the lending library, please use the "Request a Lending Library Item" link below. 

Request a Lending Library Item

Ergonomic Support for Remote Employees Program

This program provides support to employees who are assigned to work from a remote location, using a computer, for 20 hours or more a week. Upon request, remote employees will be given access to a web-based training and self-assessment program, lending library furniture/equipment, and further ergonomic assistance. For more information, select the link the below. 

Ergonomic Support for Remote Employees Program & Appendix

Information and Resources