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Introduction
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, work
related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) are among the most prevalent
lost time injuries in almost every industry. The National Institute of
Occupational Safety and Health, NIOSH, found through their
investigations that workers who perform sustained computer tasks at
nonadjustable computer workstations have shown evidence of WMSD.
New Jersey’s Public Employees Occupational Safety
and Health Administration (PEOSHA), in their Video Display Terminal
(VDT) guidelines state that attention to well-designed workstations,
training, and conditions of work can actually improve productivity. This
web page was created to assist staff in identifying and correcting WMSD
so they can become informed computer operators. It is a practical guide
that allows the operator to make changes directly to their work stations
or through a workstation evaluation.
Information on the types of symptoms,
musculoskeletal disorders associated with computer use, the various
causes of the disorders and ways to correct or reduce them are provided.
Also included are sections on work practices, recommended design and lay
out of computer workstations, and computer workstation equipment and
accessories. A Table of Contents is listed to the side so that you can
click on each topic in order, or select those topics of interest to you.
In order to save time identifying and researching ergonomically designed
furniture, The Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and
Safety Services (EOHSS) has compiled a list of
furniture and accessories that meet the University’s criteria for
computer workstation use. It is included in the web page, complete with
the vendor’s address and phone number of their contact person.
Since 1999 it has been the policy of the University that
furniture and accessories purchased must meet the criteria established
by EOHSS and the Department
of Purchasing.
After reading the web site you will be equipped to
perform your own workstation evaluation. This can be done by completing
the checklist provided at the end of the web page. To request an
evaluation from EOHSS, click on Contact EOHSS at the column to your
left.
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