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Useful Sites
Cornell University Ergonomics Web
About this site: Cornell University has pulled together an informative site on work design, or ergonomics, based on case studies and research completed at the university. The goal of this site is to give users solid information on how to choose equipment and develop work habits that reduce the risk of injury on the job. The site also provides plenty of tips on ergonomic practices, as well as helpful office information on lighting and indoor air quality. (http://ergo.human.cornell.edu/)  Pluses: The helpful tips are easy to implement, and can be applied both home and office computer stations.  Minuses: It's difficult to sort through tedious reports to find the more useful tip and checklist pages.  Best feature: The tips, guidelines, and shopping advice in the "Ergonomics Information" section will educate you in everything from setting up your workstation to using a computer mouse properly. |
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Secondhand Smoke
About this site: It's pretty obvious that smokers harm their lungs by lighting up a cigarette. But the facts may still seem cloudy when it comes to secondhand smoke. If you've ever wondered how the smoker next to you might affect your health, this is an excellent site to check out. The EPA defines secondhand smoke, offers clear facts on their health effects, and lists steps to reduce exposure. (http://www.epa.gov/iaq/ets/) Pluses: The steps to reduce exposure are simple to follow and will make smokers and non-smokers alike aware of ways to help keep confined air clean. Minuses: Meant for homeowners, this site mostly provides information on secondhand smoke in residences rather than public places. Best feature: Fact sheets on the health effects of passive smoking offer conclusive evidence to help you convince your neighbor to stub out that cigarette. |
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
About this site: The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health is the federal agency that researches workplace injuries and diseases, and makes recommendations on how to prevent them. The site has plenty reports on everything from indoor air quality to ergonomics and musculoskeletal disorders. Employers can also order publications and borrow training videos free of charge. http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/homepage.html Pluses: A comprehensive site map means easy navigating. Minuses: If you aren't a scientist, some of the more technical information in the databases is incomprehensible. Best feature: An alphabetical topic index makes it easy to find what you're looking for at a glance. |
OSHA: Workers' Page
About this site: Congress created the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to establish and enforce workplace safety standards. The agency provides health and safety information, training, and assistance to both workers and employers. Check out the newly launched Workers' Page to learn your rights and responsibilities. (http://www.osha.gov/as/opa/worker/index.html) Pluses: Links within the text connect you to other relevant material in English and Spanish. Minuses: The site seems more geared to service and manufacturing work than office jobs. Best feature: A link to a complete list of the agency's safety publications, including guidelines on job hazards and preventing workplace violence. |
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