Environmental Health & Safety

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my department have to pay for an ergonomic evaluation?
No. Environmental Health and Safety offers ergonomic evaluations at no cost.

Are we required to implement the recommended changes from an ergonomic evaluation?
OR-OSHA does not have an ergonomics standard, though the general duty clause, ORS 654.010, requires the university to furnish a safe place of employment. The recommendations following an ergonomic evaluation are considered by Environmental Health and Safety as necessary to maintain a safe work environment.

Who pays for ergonomic upgrades?
It is generally up to the department to pay for ergonomic upgrades. If the department is unable to afford an upgrade, the University will determine a solution.

What type of equipment can I get from Surplus?
Surplus has a large volume of systems furniture and freestanding desks available. Basic task chairs which have the recommended features are often available.

Is my private information kept confidential?
Private information, which includes symptom survey and medical information, is kept confidential in the Environmental Health and Safety office. A report that contains this information will not be forwarded to anyone without the employee's permission. Information concerning the risk analysis or recommendations may be forwarded to Human Resources and the employee's supervisor when intervention is necessary.

Will Environmental Health and Safety recommend exercises or treatment for my symptoms?
No. Whereas Environmental Health and Safety can recommend changes to promote a healthy work environment, they are not a medical authority. Employees experiencing symptoms of an injury should seek advice from their health care provider.

My health care provider has diagnosed me with a work related injury. What should I do?
If a health care provider determines that an employee has developed a work related injury, the employee should notify their supervisor and complete a SAIF 801 form to file a workers' comp claim. The University will make a good faith effort to comply with a doctor's recommendations.