Are Computers Hazardous to your Health?

Nov 21, 2001 11:45 AM

Obtaining Supplies and Equipment

Q: Where can we obtain the equipment and supplies you have recommended?

A: Many of the recommended items (such as copy stands, keyboard drawers, and telephone headset) can be ordered through the Board of Education’s Bureau of Supplies; others can be obtained through outside suppliers. The UFT is working with the Bureau of Supplies to increase the range of computer-related ergonomic equipment available.

Q: Where does the money come from to pay for this equipment?

A: Every school has money to spend on equipment and furnishings, but this is not a fixed amount. As the school system moves into the era where school leadership teams (composed of faculty, administrators and parents) will be making budgetary choices starting in the fall of 1999, getting money for your office equipment will become more of a matter of negotiation. To make sure that your priorities are included in the school’s priorities, you should discuss your needs with the principal and UFT chapter leader, both of whom are automatically members of the school leadership team.

The exception would be if you have a physician’s diagnosis of permanent injury. In that case, as noted earlier, the board is obligated under federal law to provide you with a workplace accommodation regardless of the expense. Treating Computer Injuries