Ohio Now Offering Online Ergonomics Classes For Its Employers

An Ohio worker with carpal tunnel syndrome can cost his or her employer an estimated $30,000, according to the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation. That's one reason the agency has begun offering free, online ergonomics classes.

The bureau's new online class, Office Ergonomics Online, can help employers eliminate procedures that can contribute to the onset of carpal tunnel and other ergonomic-related workplace injuries. Carpal tunnel related-injured are frequent among workers ages 50 to 70, according to the bureau.

Employees who use a computer more than 4 hours a day can learn -- from the comfort (or discomfort) of their own desk -- ergonomic practices specifically developed for office environments. The tutorial, which lasts 30 minutes, is self-paced and interactive.

"Because online classes are available at any time, Ohio businesses don't have to worry about fitting safety training into their schedule," said James Conrad, administrator/CEO of the agency. "By participating in this class and implementing proper ergonomic techniques, employers can help protect their workers from painful injuries like carpal tunnel."