@work project
Images were taken during a 30-minute interactive workshop targeted to the Ocean Frontier Instititute (OFI) group - with time at the end for additional problem solving with the OT students and Q & A. To prepare for the workshop, the student OTs went to the OFI workspace to do an initial assessment understand the OFI personnel's specific equipment, job tasks etc, then tailored the ergonomic workshop for them! @WORK coordinator Karen Joudrey expressed that the workshop "was very well received and the participants were very engaged!"
If you are interested in joining the @WORK 1:1 ergonomic assessment during May and June you can access the webform through the Dal@Work project through: https://dalu.sharepoint.com/sites/ehs/SitePages/ergonomics-consultation.aspx
@WORK PROJECT CELEBRATES 10 YEAR MILESTONE
by Karen Joudrey and Liane Sandula
Collaborators
The success of the @WORK project is a collective achievement. It is a multi-department collaboration. Currently, the School of Occupational Therapy, the Environmental Health and Safety Office, and Human Resources are all involved in knowing and growing the program.
@WORK would not work without Dal's student Occupational Therapists. Since 2014, 155 pairs of eager student OT hands have been engaged in improving our workplace. It's not just a classroom affair; it's about rolling up sleeves, getting hands-on, and making a real difference. Their work is overseen by an experienced Occupational Therapist coordinator and preceptors who ensure an exceptional learning experience. Through the Dalhousie Ergonomics Program, the @WORK project provides equitable access to occupational therapy services. Thanks to ongoing funding provided by HR, we can continue offering this service free of charge to the Dalhousie community. It is a truly symbiotic relationship where both the students and our community benefit and thrive.
Impact
Over the last four years, the @WORK project's primary partnership has been with Dalhousie's Environmental Health and Safety office and has touched the daily lives of well over 400 community members in various ways. It has hosted everything from individualized ergonomic assessments and interventions to educational workshops to job demand analyses. The student occupational therapists address not just the physical environment but also the psycho-social environment. They conduct assessments and facilitate workshops (both in-person and online) and regularly visit both Truro and Halifax campuses to serve our community. As word-of-mouth spreads about the project's offerings, we have increased our impact year-over-year.
Your Opportunity to Engage
As part of the Dalhousie community, we invite you to harness the benefits of access to occupational therapy services through the Ergonomics Program. You will find details on the opportunities below at Ergonomics (sharepoint.com):
1. Free Computer-Based Training and online resources:
Dive into our free, user-friendly, computer-based training course. Equip yourself with the knowledge to enhance your workspace and well-being. Your comfort matters and this course is designed with your needs in mind. If you do not have time for the course, check out our on-demand materials, such as our ergonomic self-assessment manual, videos, and guides.
2. Team Sessions:
Extend the impact to your colleagues. Book a team session, and let our experts guide your team through the principles of ergonomics. A healthier, more efficient team starts with understanding and implementing ergonomic principles and practices.
3. One-on-One Consultations:
You and your work are unique, and so are your needs. Schedule a one-on-one consultation with our student Occupational Therapists. Tailored advice ensures you have the tools to optimize your workspace for your personal well-being and productivity.
Conclusion:
As we reflect on ten years of the @WORK project and partnership with EHS (Environmental Health and Safety), it is evident that the impact goes far beyond the university's walls. The project's commitment to practical education, community engagement, and the well-being of individuals in various roles and workplaces has solidified its role as a leader in occupational therapy education. As it continues to evolve and inspire future professionals, the @WORK project partnership through the Dalhousie Ergonomics Program is a shining example of the positive change that can be achieved through innovative educational initiatives. As a member of the Dal community, we hope that you embrace the opportunities available to you to improve your work environment, stay safe, and succeed at work. Let's continue to create a workplace that supports your well-being and propels Dalhousie forward as a community united in excellence.