Mouse May Prove Menace
Without Work Station Updates

The Buffalo News needs to make a fair number of improvements to ensure employees do not suffer injuries related to their work on computers, according to a report issued by the expert on computer safety from the Communications Workers of America.

The report, based on visits made to The News in April by David LeGrande, director of Occupational Safety and Health, notes the mish-mash of computer equipment and work stations in departments that employ Guild-represented employees. Most of the newer equipment meets ergonomic standards aimed at minimizing injuries, but most of the older terminals and work stations do not. Moreover, there's an overall problem related to glare caused from overhead lighting and sunlight coming through windows.

LeGrande stressed during his visit here that the introduction of PCs, requiring extensive use of a mouse, introduce a new ergonomic issue that The News and Guild need to pay particular attention to. Without proper work stations, extensive use of a mouse can lead to serious health problems in workers, he said.

The Guild asked the CWA to inspect conditions at The News as part of its long-standing advocacy for sound ergonomic practices.

The company, working with the Guild, purchased new work stations for inside circulation, classified and ABC in the early 1990s. The CWA report underscored that it's time to revisit the issue.

“We first approached The News on this issue some 18 months ago, when we learned they would be installing PCs in the newsroom.,” said Bob DiCesare, Local president..

“This report confirms what we’ve known all along, that The News needs to make ergonomic changes in order to insure the health and comfort of its employees. The News had requested a copy of this report when it was completed, so it would appear that this is the ideal time to renter into discussions on ergonomics.”

The report noted a couple of issues that were common in all Guild-represented departments:

Chairs, while adjustable, did not allow to the angling of the seat or back rest. Such adjustments are desirable.

Light from overhead fixtures and from outside the building is causing screen glare. Changes in the fixtures to change the diffusion of light, the position of terminals, and window coverings have the potential to minimize the problem.

Here are the findings for each of the departments:

Newsroom: The report said the newsroom was "in general, well designed" but noted room for improvement. The placement of terminals and keyboards on non-adjustable surfaces was noted, but the height of most desks and typing trays falls within an acceptable height range. However, anyone under 5'2" or over 5'10" needs an adjustable work stations. The report said the time is approaching for the purchase of "state-of-the-art, ergonomic work stations."

Classified/ABC: The report noted "no consistency of continuity of work equipment throughout the department." One problem: some work stations, while fine for keyboard work, are not designed to handle a mouse. Others were suitable for a mouse, but not for proper placement of a keyboard. The report said that the older terminals need to be replaced because the screens can't be adjusted for height or angle.

Customer service: While work stations are well designed, screens, keyboards and the mouse are not properly positioned, which has led to a crowded fit and potential for health problems. The report recommended new work surfaces. Cold temperatures in the winter also were noted.

Inside circulation: The layout of many work stations is a problem because workers are forced to view the screen at an angle. Other work stations are a problem because they are not designed to handle a mouse. The report warned of potential for "serious musculoskeletal or repetitive motion health problems" if not corrected.