Ergonomics Committee

Scope of the Problem
Ergonomics disorders are the most rapidly growing category of work related illness. Those associated with repeated trauma (repetitive use disorders) have tripled since 1984. The average cost to treat one case of carpal tunnel syndrome runs between $5,000 to $30,000. In the event a worker becomes disabled, costs may run from $30,000 to $100,000 or greater. Ergonomic disorders are, for the most part, preventable. It is no longer justifiable to simply treat or rehabilitate someone following an injury. Organizations must adopt a proactive stance; working to institute preventative measures which will benefit all concerned over the long run. -Betsy DeBrakeleer, Chair VDT/Ergonomics Committee

The VDT Ergonomics Commitee
The VDT/Ergonomics Committee came into existence in 1994. The Committee meets quarterly to discuss campus wide issues related to the assessment, modification and design of work stations/work areas. A prime goal is to inform and protect employees and students from injuries caused by: improper computer usage, work areas which exhibit improper physical or environmental design, or injuries resulting from poor task arrangements.

The Committee's Mission
  • Survey awareness (or lack of) ergonomics within the University community. Assess and identify needs and risk factors at work sites.
     
  • Provide group inservices and training on a regular basis.
     
  • Provide individual work station and/or performance assessments with recommendations for change as needed.
     
  • Provide resources to UNE employees for implementation of changes to improve safety, comfort, function, and productivity at their work stations.

The Committee seeks to create an ergonomically-informed workforce and to promote a culture wherein employees and students are encouraged to make reasonable improvements at their work sites. Staff, faculty and administrators have requested and received recommendations for modifications across the various work areas of the University. To date these have included: individual computer stations, computer classrooms, staff and student areas of the library, housekeeping, facilities management (shops and grounds-keeping), and food preparation centers.

The University of New England may well be unique in it's approach to assessing the potential for injury within its population in that student therapists play a pivotal role in the identification of potential ergonomic hazards of our computer workstations.

The Operator's and Students page provides information on how the program came into being and the training/activities of our students.

Committee Membership

Betsy DeBrakeleer, (OT) chair
Debbie DeWitt (UNIFIED)
Karen Bragdon, (PT)
Barry Butler, (PT)
Bill Croninger, (OT)
Sally Libby, (Human Resources)
Michael Sheldon, (PT)

Ongoing Projects

  • Developing a ergonomic resource library for the University community.
     
  • Updating the slide-video portion of inservices.
     
  • Inservice presentations for employees and students.
     
  • The incorporation of ergonomics assessment training within the Occupational and Physical Therapy curriculums.
   
       

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