Environmental Health & Safety

Ergonomics

The ergonomics program at Portland State University is in place to support a healthy work environment by reducing strain that is associated with forceful exertions, repetitive motion, and awkward or static postures. Discomfort that is associated with these factors can be reduced by maintaining a healthy work environment and adhering to safe work practices such as neutral body positioning and use of recovery periods. This will tend to increase satisfaction with the work environment, often improving productivity and reducing time loss.

The program is coordinated by Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) which will provide expert advice and consultation on avoiding discomforting levels of strain and repetitive motion. It is important to note that EH&S is not a medical authority nor does it have any purchasing power.

By maintaining a healthy work environment, work-related ergonomic hazards are minimized. This helps to prevent the development of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs); however, if an employee is experiencing MSD symptoms, they are encouraged to report them to their supervisor and to seek assistance from their medical care provider. Environmental Health and Safety recommends that employees request assistance when:

• Work requires frequent, uncomfortable actions or awkward postures
• Setting up, sharing, inheriting, or experiencing discomfort at a workstation
• Using broken, worn out, or obsolete furniture or equipment

To request a full ergonomic evaluation, submit a work order to Facilities and Planning under "Environmental Health/Safety Issues." For other assistance, contact EH&S at extension 5268. Please refer to the following links for further information.