Are Computers Hazardous to your Health?

Nov 21, 2001 11:45 AM

UFT Role in Protecting Computer Users

Q: What is the union doing to protect us against computer injuries?

A: The union is active in these areas:

Training: The UFT holds workshops on computer safety for secretaries on staff development day and at district meetings. You can ask your chapter leader to request a training session in your district.

Technical Assistance and Advocacy: The UFT’s Health and Safety Committee and staff industrial hygienists provide technical assistance to secretaries who need help identifying solutions for computer-related problems. We also provide support when staff need assistance obtaining administration approval for office upgrade plans.

Purchasing Guidelines: As already noted, the union has obtained a board commitment to purchase only computers that meet Swedish standards for electromagnetic emissions. Currently we are working with the board to develop ergonomic standards for office equipment that is centrally purchased. We also are negotiating with the Bureau of Supplies to ensure that they offer a wider range of ergonomic computer-related supplies for purchase by individual schools.

Contract Language: The 1995-2000 secretary contract requires the board to work with the union to deal with complaints about computer equipment. The UFT also is exploring the use of contract language to win injury in the line of duty pay for computer injuries.

Government Standards: The UFT has played an active role in promoting adoption of city and federal standards for computer safety in the workplace. Currently we are working with the AFT and the AFL-CIO to win adoption of an ergonomic standard developed by the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Approval has been stalled by business opposition.