Q. Who is responsible for ergonomics at the University of Washington?
A. As with all health and safety issues at the University, responsibility and accountability for assuring the employee’s workplace meets regulatory requirements rests with the Deans, Directors, Chairs and Supervisors. As noted in the UW Policy Directory, everyone with supervisory responsibility is expected to directly participate in assuring that safe working conditions are maintained. The University Health and Safety Committees are also initiating ergonomics awareness at the organizational unit level. Supervisors are responsible for ensuring their employees are provided a safe and healthful work environment. This is accomplished by assessing employee work tasks to identify risks of incurring work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) and identifying methods to reduce or eliminate that potential. Employees should be aware of ergonomic risks of incurring work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) and identifying risk factors and resources available at the UW. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, immediately notify your supervisor and contact your health care provider to report your discomfort. Environmental Health & Safety has ergonomic information available on their website. Additionally, you can look at the L&I website on ergonomics.
Q. What if I am experiencing pain or discomfort?
A. Immediately notify your supervisor and contact your health care provider to report your discomfort. Complete the Online Accident Reporting System (OARS) form.
Q. What ergonomics assistance is currently available?
A. EH&S can provide guidance to individuals and organizational units on how they can begin to address their ergonomics issues. EH&S provides ergonomic awareness training, training focused on back protection, and limited technical assistance and consultation regarding ergonomic issues. For further information, contact EH&S at (206) 543-7262 or visit the Environmental Health and Safety website at Environmental Health and Safety website.