University departments and units in need of financial help to purchase equipment or redesign work processes to solve ergonomic issues can receive up to $5,000 in MHealthy ergonomics grant funds.
Any regular employee can apply for an ergonomics grant for their work area. The Ergonomics Awareness Team encourages submitting an application if work group colleagues regularly:
• Experience physical discomfort due to manually lifting, pushing, pulling or transporting equipment, objects or patients.
• Bend over, reach up or perform awkward, repetitive motion for several hours during the workday.
• Experience physical stress or discomfort due to work conditions.
“If you and your colleagues use excessive force, repeat the same motion throughout the workday, or bend in awkward ways to perform work tasks, your area could be a good candidate for an ergonomic grant,” says Suzanne Bade, MHealthy Ergonomics Awareness Team chair and senior ergonomics consultant.
“Many of the risks associated with performing these tasks can be reduced by making ergonomic improvements to work equipment or the environment. The outcome is improved worker safety, job satisfaction, comfort and productivity.”
Applications will be reviewed based on the significance of the ergonomic issue, the feasibility of the project, and the anticipated outcome. Potential applicants are encouraged to visit the website for more information on what projects will, and will not be considered for funding.
To make grant dollars go farther and support more university areas, departments and units that receive a grant are encouraged to share in the cost of the project.
Submissions are encouraged by Oct. 31, although applications are accepted year-round. To apply for an Ergo grant and see examples of past projects, go to mhealthy.umich.edu/ergo-grant.
The Ergonomics Awareness Team also continues to accept year-round nominations for its Ergonomic Hero Awards at mhealthy.umich.edu/ergoawards. These awards recognize departments and individuals that have independently implemented ergonomic solutions in the workplace.
