ERGO

Who do I contact for assistance in locating office equipment on contract?

For information about equipment on contract please contact: Contract Services,
John McIntyre 828-2210 Or visit http://www.bgs.vermont.gov/purchasing. 

You may also refer to our Ergonomic Equipment Guide.  It is a summary of all Ergo equipment under contract.

How do I set up an “ideal” workstation?

There are a couple of ways to learn how to set up your workstation. One of the best ways would be to participate in an Ergo 101 class held at your worksite or the Summit Center in Waterbury. To check for the availability of the next class please visit: http://www.vermontpersonnel.com/employee/training_catalog_calendar.php. or contact Workplace Safety and Training for an in-house class. In the meantime, OSHA has some interesting information and self help tools you are welcome to visit at: http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/computerworkstations/index.html

INJURY PREVENTION

I am responsible for building upkeep and safety, is there an evaluation tool (checklist) I could use?

A model form is available at our Forms section on our website called Workplace Safety Site Checklist and fits most state facilities. Additionally there are checklists available at www.osha.gov

How can I reduce employee injuries and illnesses?

Compliance with VOSHA rules is essential. Compliance along with an effective voluntary safety and health program can help reduce your costs, injuries and illnesses. An organized, carefully crafted plan that systematically focuses on workplace hazards and employee training is critical. Buy-in from every manager, supervisor and employee is essential. Everyone has to work at safety and health.

How do I develop this program?

Each safety and health program should be tailored to fit the agency: to blend with its unique operations and culture and to help employers maintain a system that continually addresses workplace hazards. There are five elements that every effective program should have:

• management leadership and employee participation;
• job hazard analysis;
• hazard prevention and control;
• safety and health training and education;
• and program evaluation. 

A great resource for safety program development is: “Developing An Effective Safety & Health Program” available from the VT Dept. of Labor at: 802-828-6991 or on-line at: www.labor.vermont.gov under Forms & Publications.

How do I prevent and control hazards at my worksite?

The vital part of a good safety and health program is continual review of work environment and work practices to control or prevent workplace hazards.
This can be done when you:

• Regularly and thoroughly maintain equipment
• Establish a work order system to ensure hazards are corrected
• Ensure that hazard correction procedures are in place
• Ensure that employees know how to use and maintain personal protective equipment
• Ensure that all employees understand and follow safe work procedures

How do I report a complaint or concern regarding the quality of air or other issues affecting my work environment?

Any building-related issues or concerns can be reported by completing the on-line form on our Safe and Healthy Buildings section of our website entitled:
“Building-Related Issues Notification Form”

How do I know what cleaning products are authorized for use in my building?

Only the products designated on state contracts are authorized for use unless a waiver is on file. Unless otherwise stated, waivers will only be approved for products with existing EPP contract vendors. When utilizing products, custodians and contract janitorial staff will follow manufacturer's instructions for use. For a complete list of current contracts visit our Current Contracts section of the Office of Purchasing and Contracting on our website and click on Custodial Supplies.