Online training provides new avenues for creating safe workplace

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. C. Michaela Judge
  • 66th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
HANSCOM AFB, Mass. --  New online training has recently become available to further aid Hanscom employees in maintaining a safe work environment and implementing Voluntary Protection Program practices.

Through the combined efforts of Maj. Sarah Houle, Individual Mobilization Augmentee to international operations, VPP personnel and the Communication and Information Division, Ergonomics training is now offered to base personnel via the Hanscom CenterNet.

Major Houle, who previously conducted group Ergonomics trainings during Integration Week, in addition to some Fridays, said that by putting the class on the CenterNet, the training is now more easily accessibly to everyone on base.

"The in-person training that I offered before works better with a small class size, and this meant multiple courses needed to train everyone on base. The online training offers the best ratio of one-on-one," she said.

Major Houle defined ergonomics as the scientific study of human work, which encompasses the human body's capabilities and limits as it utilizes tools, equipment and work methods in a working environment.

The training, she said, takes a closer look at how ergonomics can come into play in an individual's workspace.

In addition to awareness training, the Ergonomics training class also includes information and graphics on proper work space setup, lifting, posture and stretching techniques.

"The entire training is important. From workstation setup to recognizing signs and symptoms of potentially avoidable physical conditions, the materials provided are comprehensive and valuable. And, for this reason, one has to pass the online exam with 100 percent success in order to receive credit for it," the major said.

The one area that the training currently lacks, the major said, is the demonstration aspect of lifting techniques and the sample stretches that personnel may due to alleviate muscle tension during the course of their day.

To help address this problem, Major Houle said that she is looking to add video demos in the future to make the training more comprehensive than the photos that are currently being used to illustrate techniques.

While this training is currently optional, the major said it's important for everyone to take it in order to be better informed of potential dangers that they might face performing even the simplest of tasks.

"Ergonomics should be addressed in any environment, not just work, as a tool to ensure the use of proper body mechanics and postures to avoid injury. Any workplace or home injury from overuse, repetitive motions or due to safety hazards can usually be prevented. And with that prevention, there are both cost savings and physical and emotional wellbeing savings," she said.

The Ergonomics training can be located on the Hanscom CenterNet by clicking on the Training tab at the top of the page, and searching under the Other Training drop down menu.

If there are groups that still prefer a personalized session, they should contact Major Houle at Sarah.Houle@hanscom.af.mil to arrange a class.

For more information on ergonomics, individuals should contact either Major Houle via e-mail or the Bio-Environmental Health office here at 781-377-2181.