CHM Purchasing - Workstation Modifications
The Center for Healthy Minds values the well-being of everyone in our community, and we (the Operations team and leadership) are happy to work with anyone on a case by case basis to explore options for addressing any significant issues hindering your comfort and productivity at your workstation.
We understand that everyone operates differently, has different needs, and the original workstation setup (desk and chair) provided will not be optimal for everyone. The best solutions might require some trial and error, multiple adjustments, and may or may not involve purchasing.
Process for Requesting Workstation Modifications
(1) If you have a specific request or solution due to a diagnosed medical condition or need a reasonable accommodation to perform the essential functions of your position, please contact our Divisional Disability Representative (DDR). The DDR is the person authorized to receive and maintain confidential medical information in our College. To find out who CHM's current DDR is, please reach out to Lisa Wesley, HR Generalist, or Brittany Thomson, Center Administrator.
(2) If you are experiencing discomfort but do not have a specific medical condition or definite solution in mind:
- If the issue is not urgent, try making adjustments to your posture, position, and/or orientation following the general recommendations for workplace ergonomics found here.
- If the issue presents significant discomfort and disruption to your ability to function at work, schedule an appointment with a UW Ergonomics Consultant to help identify solutions (details below). Once you have a recommendation or more information, request a purchase through our Purchasing Request Form.
- The Purchasing Request Form is routed directly to the purchasing department.
- NOTE: CHM Purchasing (chm_purchasing@chm.wisc.edu) will send you an email to confirm that your request was received, along with a copy.
- The Purchasing Request Form is routed directly to the purchasing department.
Resources for Assessing Ergonomics
Ergonomics is the science behind fitting the job to the person. This could include equipment, the physical work environment, postural habits, activity demands, and how the work is performed.
The UW-Madison Ergonomics team aims to improve comfort, reduce strain, and prevent injuries by incorporating ergonomics in the workplace.
Request and Ergonomics Service
Ergonomics Services
Most ergonomics services can be completed in-person or virtually.
Assessments:
An assessment is an in-depth analysis of how your work in your workstation. The ergonomics team works to identify ergonomic hazards and provide recommendations on how to eliminate such hazards or reduce risk of injuries. The ergonomics team is willing to focus on tasks that are uncomfortable or challenging based on your specific situation.
Showrooms:
Showroom visits involve simulations of your workstation, equipment fitting, and a mini assessment. You will be asked to bring a photo and measurements of your workstation to simulate at your showroom. Based on your needs and anthropometrics, recommendations will be made and fit your equipment needs. From there, the ergonomics team will assess how you interact with the equipment in your simulated workstation.
Equipment that is available to trial for fit include:
- office chairs, sit-to-stand units, height adjustable desks, monitor arms/stands, keyboards, and mouse options
*Showroom visits are by appointment only*
Office Ergonomics
In an increasingly virtual environment, people are frequently in front of screens in the office and their remote work stations. It is important to fit your workstations to your needs to reduce strain and improve comfort.
Top 5 Office Ergonomic Concerns:
- Desk height
- Keyboard/mouse width
- Monitor height
- Chair adjustability/function
- Chair fit
Visit the Environment, Health & Safety - Ergonomics page for quick tips and more information on how to improve the different elements of your computer workstations.
Laboratory Ergonomics
UW-Madison is a renowned research institution with many different types of labs across campus. The unique demands of labratory research may expose researchers to ergonomic risk factors such as:
- excessive force
- awkward or sustained postures
- micromanipulation of small objects
- repetitive motions
- contact stress
- temperature changes
These risk factors may lead to the development of musculoskeletal concerns which could affect the muscles, tendons, ligmaents, joints, nerves, blood vessels, and discs.
Use the Laboratory Ergonomics Checklist to identify factors that may be contributing to discomfort in your lab.
Equipment
What is the best ergonomic equipment?
It depends. The most ergonomic piece of equipment is the one that best fits you, your work station, and how you work.
Examples of Ergonomic Equipment:
- Seating: adjustable office chair, lab stool
- Work surface: height-adjustable desk, sit-to-stand unit, adjustable lab bench
- Computer Accessories: split keyboard, ambidextrous mouse
- Tools: electronic pipette, electric stapler