Public Officers received vital instruction in ergonomics when the Health and Safety Unit of the Human Resources Department facilitated in-house training sessions in collaboration with Therapy Works.

Ergonomics, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) is, “The scientific study of people at work. This is accomplished by designing tasks, work spaces, controls, displays, tools, lighting, and equipment to fit the employee´s physical capabilities and limitations.”

Over 60 public officers participated in one of several hour-long training sessions held earlier this month.  The sessions demonstrated how public officers can improve their office workstation ergonomically and improve their general health by reducing ailments related to poor ergonomic design of workstations.

Health and Safety Unit Coordinator, Mrs. Dawn Leonard shared that the training was a huge success and she lauded the partnership with Therapy Works.

She said, “The training taught Public Officers how to better interact with their workstations with the goal of reducing stress and eliminating injuries and disorders associated with the overuse of muscles, bad posture, and repeated tasks.”

According to the Health and Safety Coordinator, the training was offered based on the results of an audit conducted by the Health and Safety Unit of the Department of Human Resources.

More specific ergonomics training is scheduled for October and November. These sessions are intended for supervisors and field officers.

The training was facilitated by Dr. Jerry Smith, owner of Therapy Works, through an already established partnership. At the end of the sessions, Therapy Works also offered free screenings for persons with existing concerns related to poor ergonomics.

Ergonomics training for Public Officers in Virgin Gorda will follow shortly.

The Health and Safety Unit of the Department of Human Resources brings awareness to health and safety issues for a safe and healthy workplace in the Public Service.