June 7, 2005, Findlay, Ohio – Approximately 20 people from the automobile parts manufacturing industry will spend the next several weeks learning how to take the pain out of their daily work routine.

The group is participating in The University of Findlay’s new six-week Susan B. Harwood Ergonomics Training Program. The free program works with small businesses to help them develop and implement in-house programs that will assist them in reducing the number of Workplace Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSD). Repetitive forceful movements and improper body positioning that occurs in many workplace settings typically cause these disorders.

According to Dr. William Carter, associate professor of environmental safety and occupational health management, ergonomics-related health issues account for a significant amount of labor costs and on-the-job injuries. “Thirty-four percent of injury and illness are related to musculoskeletal disorders,” Carter explained. “Just sprains and strains of the back account for 43 percent of the injuries resulting in lost days of work. This program will provide a chance for companies to increase their productivity and save money.”

The sessions address a number of issues including: identifying contributing factors to ergonomic issues; analyzing work areas and generating solutions to reduce/eliminate risk exposure; understanding the health impacts of poor ergonomic design; and identifying key components in rehabilitation and return-to-work programs.

The program is managed by UF’s School of Environmental and Emergency Management and is funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

For more information, contact Rebecca Shell, public relations officer, at 419-434-4345 or shell@findlay.edu