PDM Dinner Meeting - Tuesday, November 9th, 2010

Fitting Workplace Conditions to Your Capabilities: Ergonomic Challenges for the Changing Workplace




With Lisa Harris and Amy Rohsner




Telecommute? Work from home? Temporary or contract status?

Our topic this month, though somewhat indirectly related to operations, does focus on the potential for changing dynamics in the physical workplace. As the number of local businesses incorporate remote and/or temporary employees into their workforce to save overhead costs or to reward highly productive employees or even to reduce office floor space requirements, unique ergonomics challenges arise. Our presenters will be discussing their experiences for assessing and planning these types of arrangements. And because of the potential for injury and disability, will provide recommendations on what to consider prior to and after implementation.

This presentation will begin with a general introduction to ergonomics and the benefits for employees and employers. The presentation will include common risk factors and potential problems associated with improper ergonomics. We will review basic anatomy and proper computer workstation ergonomics including these common problem areas: posture, force, and repetition. The presenters will then demonstrate a workstation assessment and a recovery stretch break.

Take-aways from this meeting include the ability to assess and remedy risk factors specific to permanent, temporary, or remote work assignments and training on how to implement policies or practices at home or in the work area including equipment, communication, and risk.

Joining us for this timely discussion is Lisa Harris and Amy Rohsner. Ms. Harris graduated from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio with a Bachelor of Science degree in Occupational Therapy. She also earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Administration from Southwest Texas State University and a national certification in Occupational Therapy. Lisa has more than 12 years of experience in outpatient adult settings including hand therapy, industrial services, chronic pain management and seating and mobility evaluations.

Ms. Rohsner graduated from Texas State University with a Bachelor's degree in Exercise and Sports Science and a Master's of Science degree in Physical Therapy. Amy has earned the distinction of Certified Ergonomics Assessment Specialist from the Back School of Atlanta and conducts ergonomic evaluations and consults with employers on injury management and ergonomic programs. Amy's work has included outpatient physical therapy for the Seton Healthcare Network and during that time, she provided physical therapy services for patients from age 5 to 85.

Please join us for this pre-holiday session. We have a special menu planned and lots of opportunites to meet and network with other professionals. We guarantee a casual but very interesting and informative meeting - we hope to see you there!

Registration: November PDM

When: Tuesday, November 9th, 2010

Where: Norris Conference Center

Agenda:

5:30pm - 6:15pm Registration and Networking

6:15pm - 6:45pm Light meal and table discussions

6:45pm - 7:45pm Presentation

7:45pm - Adjourn

Cost: $15.00