OEH&S Ergonomics

UCSF has an Ergonomics Program to address work related repetitive motion and musculoskeletal disorders. The Program consists of the following:

1. A written program.

2. Idenfication of high risk work activities that result in repetitive motion injuries:

Examples of situations at UCSF that could need evaluation are:

• Office work stations
• Materials handling involving lifting and pushing
• Laboratory functions such as pipetting
• Use of tools, equipment, and machinery use

3. Evaluation of work stations and identification of cost effective corrective actions to reduce injuries:

Evaluations of work activities and work stations are conducted through the Clinical and Campus programs:

• OEH&S conducts evaluations before the employee files a workers compensation claim.
• Disability Management Services conducts evaluations after a claim is filed.

The purpose of the evaluation is to identify factors (such as frequent and repetitive motion, awkward posture, static postures, high forces, heavy lifting, and unexpected and sudden movements) that might result in injury to an employee and identify corrective actions that follow the principle of good workplace design to prevent injuries.

Upon completion of the work activity/work station evaluation a written report sumarizing the findings will be issued to the affected employee and his/her department manager. This report will include recommended changes to improve working conditions.

4. Implementation of the corrective actions to reduce the severity and number of injuries:

Office work stations can be improved by using a common standard intervention that requires the purchase of equipment such as adjustable chairs and keyboard trays. Steelcase is the preferred vendor and provided preferred metal office furniture and chairs
at a discounted price.

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5. Training of department managers and employees on ergonomics topics is available:

• Overview of the Ergonomics Program
  
• Injury and claims statistics
  
• Signs and symptoms of work related musculoskeletal disorders
  
• Risk factors that contribute to work related musculoskeletal disorders in their work
  
• How to evaluate a workstation to identify changes that should be made in workstation set up and work practices to reduce the number and severity of injuries
  
• Preferred equipment and vendors when available.
  
• Options for reporting a concern before it becomes an injury or claim

6. Medical management of injuries.

7. Tracking and trending of injuries.

See also OEH&S Workplace Ergonomics Program