Is manually lifting heavy equipment causing awkward movement? Is repeating the same motions for long periods of time causing discomfort? There may be a more ergonomic way to work.
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October is National Ergonomics Month, which raises awareness of the importance of fitting the workplace to the worker. This can result in improved safety, health, productivity and job satisfaction.
Departments and units that want to solve ergonomic issues can apply for a grant through the MHealthy Ergonomics Awareness Program. Any employee can apply on behalf of their area.
Grants are awarded up to $5,000 to help purchase equipment or redesign work processes. To help support more university areas, departments and units that receive a grant are encouraged to share in the cost of the project.
Applications are encouraged if any of the following apply to employees:
- Experiencing physical discomfort due to manually lifting, pushing, pulling or transporting equipment, objects or patients.
- Bending over, reaching up or performing awkward, repetitive motion for several hours during the workday.
- Experiencing physical stress or discomfort due to work equipment.
Grants are awarded based on:
- Significance of the ergonomic issue.
- Feasibility of the project.
- Anticipated outcome.
The MHealthy Ergonomics Awareness team reviews all applications. The team includes representatives from MHealthy; Environment, Health & Safety in Ann Arbor; UMHHC Safety Management Services; the Department of Environmental Health and Safety in Dearborn; and Environment, Health & Safety in Flint.
