KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The University of Tennessee already is doing what Congress is trying to accomplish with legislation.
Ron Rader, training manager for UT’s Center for Industrial Services, said UT offers programs that show businesses and industries how to prevent on-the-job injuries caused by repetitive motion.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, under a House-passed bill, would be authorized to write and enforce guidelines to prevent such injuries.
Currently, no specific guidelines or standards exist to prevent repetitive motion injuries from tasks such as operating computers, typing and assembly-line work, Rader said.
“Offices, manufacturing plants and other types of businesses can increase their productivity and efficiency, reduce liability and protect employees by taking steps to manage repetitive stress injuries,” Rader said.
Rader said UT conducts public seminars and provides on-site consultation to help companies customize specific programs to reduce repetitive stress injuries. Information about the UT program is available by calling Rader at 423-974-3018.
Supporters of the legislation said hundreds of thousands of Americans each year suffer repetitive motion injuries. The bill now goes to the Senate.
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