Ergonomic Assessment

The goal of this Community College District Ergonomics is to reduce or eliminate hazards that contribute to the development of Cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs), a class of disorders that are caused, precipitated, or aggravated by repetitive motions. The primary tools of this program are worksite evaluations, employee and supervisor training, and implementation of ergonomic control strategies. Ergonomics should not be seen as a one-time effort. It’s a continuous, ongoing approach used in optimizing the working environment.

Employees

Employees are encouraged to promptly report ergonomic problems, exposures, conditions, injuries, or illnesses to their supervisors. Prompt implementation of workplace changes can significantly reduce the potential for severe injuries or illnesses. It is recommended that employees:

1. Adjust and use their workstation and equipment as outlined in the ergonomic training classes, safety meetings, related memos, and safety bulletins.
2. Follow safe work practices.
3. Make effective use of recovery periods.
4. Perform simple exercises and stretches.
5. Actively participate in training and follow ergonomic recommendations.
6. Promptly report work-related injuries to their supervisor.

Ergonomic Evaluations:

The purpose of the assessment should reveal specific causes of discomfort and recommendations to improve work habits, workstation configuration, and any equipment necessary to eliminate or reduce the hazard.

1. Email Riskmanagment@peralta.edu to request an evaluation.
   1. If you have a doctor’s note that requests an ergonomic evaluation, you may include it in the initial request.
2. Include the employee’s name, contact info, job title, supervisor or manager, & office location.
3. We request employees interested in an ergonomic evaluation to read: Easy Ergonomics for Desktop Computer Users. We kindly request employees to read the guide and try action items 1-11, and learn how to self-adjust their equipment.
4. Complete the preliminary Ergonomic assessment form to prepare for their evaluation (This form will be sent by risk management).
5. Review the Keenan SafeColleges Training: Office Ergonomics Training.

Next Steps

• We will reach out to schedule an in-person evaluation.
• We do not take equipment suggestions; we prefer ergonomic experts to make recommendations that will fit the individual's station.