Ergonomics awareness groups from all three U-M campuses and Michigan Medicine have again partnered to offer grant funds to departments and units looking to solve worksite ergonomics issues.
Any employee can apply on behalf of their area. Submissions are encouraged by Oct. 31.
more information
The timing of the annual Ergonomics Grant Program coincides with National Ergonomics Month each October. University areas can receive up to $5,000 to help purchase equipment or redesign work processes to reduce ergonomic risk factors.
Applications are encouraged if an area’s employees 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 work day.
• Experience physical stress or discomfort due to work equipment.
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.
The program is managed by the MHealthy Ergonomics Awareness team, which includes representatives from MHealthy; Environment, Health and Safety in Ann Arbor; Michigan Medicine Safety Management Services; the Department of Environmental Health and Safety in Dearborn; and Environment, Health and Safety in Flint.
Grants will be awarded based on the significance of the ergonomic issue, the feasibility of the project, and the anticipated outcome.
Potential applicants are encouraged to visit the MHealthy ergonomics website for more information on what projects will, and will not, be considered for funding and to see examples of past projects funded.
The Ergonomics Awareness Team also continues to accept year-round nominations for its Ergonomic Hero Awards. These awards recognize faculty and staff who have independently implemented ergonomic solutions in the workplace.
Nominating coworkers, supervisors and managers is encouraged.
