MHealthy now is accepting nominations for its sixth annual Ergonomics Awards, given to university units and employees that have implemented ergonomic solutions in the workplace. Nominations for the Department Level Ergo Awards can be submitted through March 31, while Ergo Hero Individual Award nominations are accepted year-round.
Ergonomics is the science of fitting the workplace to the worker, often resulting in the promotion of safety, health, productivity and job satisfaction.
“We want to recognize those university units and employees that are making a difference and improving health and safety in the workplace,” says Suzanne Bade, MHealthy Ergonomics program chair and senior ergonomics consultant. “Any university faculty or staff member can nominate any department, unit or university regular faculty or staff member for an Ergo Award.”
Department Ergo Award
Ergo Department Awards are given each spring to recognize university units that independently have created a safer, healthier and more efficient work environment by decreasing ergonomic risk factors and reducing or preventing employee discomfort. Solutions include adding or modifying equipment or redesigning work processes to reduce strain, awkward postures, repetitive motions or forceful exertions.
To qualify, a department or unit must have implemented the ergonomic solution during 2011. Entries will be judged based on the significance of the ergonomic issue and the success of the ergonomic solution.
Winners will be announced in May 2012 and areas earning the top award will receive a special plaque and a celebration sponsored by MHealthy.
Ergo Hero Individual Award
Nominations can be submitted year-round for an Ergo Hero Individual Award. This award recognizes individual faculty and staff members who independently are reducing their risk of sprains and strains by using recommended postures, work strategies or equipment. This award also recognizes managers, supervisors and other university leaders who support staff by applying ergonomic solutions in the workplace.
“It only takes five minutes to nominate someone for an Ergo Hero Individual Award and winners are recognized with an Ergo Hero lapel pin and a congratulatory certificate,” Bade says. “Recipients are excited to be recognized and are more aware of continuing that healthy behavior.”
Nominations for the individual award can be submitted online by completing a brief form.
Department and individual nomination forms are available at MHealthy.umich.edu/ergoawards.
