Humantech offers a complimentary ergonomics program self-assessment

Source: Humantech, Inc., Performance Engineering Solutions
Ready or not, here it comes. By October 2001, all general industry employers will be required to comply with the Occupational Safety & Health Administration's (OSHA) Ergonomics Program Standard. The rule becomes effective tomorrow.

Humantech, an ergonomics consulting firm based in Ann Arbor, MI, has created a document to help companies prepare for the new OSHA standard and develop ergonomics programs that work. The complimentary Ergonomics Program Self-Assessment is a tool for employers to evaluate their ergonomics program activities in comparison with OSHA requirements and industry best practices.

According to OSHA, work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) account for one-third of all occupational injuries and illnesses. OSHA estimates that workers' compensation and other indirect costs from WMSDs to U.S. businesses may run as high as $45 to $60 billion per year. Of course, many employers in a broad range of industries have already developed effective ergonomics programs and common sense solutions to address WMSDs in their workplaces. The Ergonomics Program Self-Assessment includes many of these industry best practices. Those interested in receiving a free copy of the self-assessment can download it from Humantech's web site at http://www.htec.com/products_serv/osha_complnce.html, or request a copy by calling Humantech at 734-663-3330, ext. 137.

Humantech has been guiding companies to ergonomics success since 1979, through ergonomics training, assessments, engineering and design services.

"Our approach is unique because all of our consultants are engineers with practical experience and every project team is led by a certified professional ergonomist. We have a reputation as innovative problem solvers and we partner with our customers to ensure their long term ergonomics success," says Mike Wynn, vice president and ergonomist for Humantech.

By Sandy Smith
Managing Editor, Safety Online
E-mail: ssmith@verticalnet.com