Ergonomics
Spelman has
developed an ergonomics program to minimize repetitive motion injuries
(RMIs) in the workplace. The primary elements of the ergonomics program
include: (1) worksite evaluations, (2) control of exposures that may
have caused RMIs, and (3) ergonomics training of employees. The
ergonomics program also focuses on educating employees on their
personal responsibility to ensure good work habits (such as posture and
body mechanics) and adequate fitness for work.
RMIs are
musculoskeletal injuries, identified and diagnosed by a licensed
physician, that can result from a job, process, or operation where
employees perform the same repetitive motion tasks. Examples of
repetitive motion tasks include, but are not limited to, sustained
computer keyboard and mouse usage; assembling materials and products;
or lifting, carrying, and loading objects.
If there is
a concern that the potential for a RMI exists because of your working
conditions, please contact the Office of Human Resources. The Human
Resources Department will arrange to have your workstation evaluated.
The evaluation identifies potential exposures that may cause RMIs and
determines the methods Spelman will use to control or minimize them.
Affected employees will be informed of the potential exposures and
trained in the control measures.
Every
reasonable effort will be made to correct exposures in a timely manner
that may have caused RMIs or, if the exposure is not capable of being
corrected, to minimize it to the extent feasible. In determining how to
correct or minimize exposures, Spelman will consider reasonable,
cost-effective engineering or administrative controls.
Employees
are provided with training that includes an explanation of the
ergonomics program, exposures that have been associated with RMIs, the
symptoms and consequences of injuries caused by repetitive motion, the
importance of reporting symptoms and injuries, and the methods used to
minimize RMIs.
All
employees are required to report to the Office of Human Resources all
workplace RMIs as soon as possible after they have been identified and
diagnosed by a licensed physician.
Policy No. 524 Effective Date: 9/1/2000
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