REPETITIVE STRESS INJURIES have become one of the most common lost time injuries in the workplace. With increased computer use among employees in every industry, ergonomic solutions to reduce repetitive movements and risk of injury have become critical. According to OSHA, repetitive strain injuries cost businesses $9 billion dollars in worker's compensation yearly. The staff at Assistive Technology Resources can identify risks, recommend solutions, provide technology, training and technical support for almost any office environment.

To improve ergonomics and reduce the risk of repetitive stress injuries, the combination of solutions is endless, but usually includes the following components:

• Seating Systems
• Mounting Systems
• Computer Access
• Telephone Access

In addition to product installation and training, experienced staff at Assistive Technology Resources can perform the following services for your company:

• Work Station Assessment
• Reduction In Upper Extremity Use

Of the 2000 hours spent each year at work, an increasing fraction is spent in front of computer terminals, leading to an increase in repetitive strain injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome. Though not statistically documented by government agencies, arm, shoulder, back, and headache pain complaints are heard more and more around the office water cooler.

Supervisors are learning they can risk losing fewer workers to disability, time off, and worker's compensation if they make offices more ergonomically friendly. Though budgets and management support of ergonomic improvements vary widely, human resource departments and small company office managers are beginning to address the problem as awareness grows.