McDowell Wellness Center is a provider of the IMPACC Ergonomics
and Prevention Program, which was developed by industrial physical
therapists as a strategy to reduce claims for tendonitis, carpal
tunnel, back injury and other work-related musculoskeletal disorders
(MSDs). Since 1981, the IMPACC program has helped to reduce lost
days of work in more than 500 workplaces across the United States.
IMPACC's focus is on preventing injuries through optional work
site modifications. The program addresses worker behaviors, supervisor
attitudes, management policies and employee relations.
Components of the IMPACC program are:
Work Risk Analysis. This analysis identifies the risk
factors for ergonomics injury, including job design, worker behaviors
and supervisor attitudes. A corrective action plan is developed
that addresses injuries, claims and costs as separate issues.
The plan also recommends worker self-care tactics, management
policies and a wide scope of cost control processes. This plan
becomes the company's first draft of an Ergonomics Plan.
Management Team Training. This component
teaches managers, supervisors and labor leaders the wide scope
of strategies for reducing injuries, claims and costs.
Employee WorkSmart Motivation. This component
is designed to instill in employees the skills they need to protect
themselves from workplace injuries. It emphasizes tactics for
avoiding fatigue, personal ergonomics and self-care responsibility,
including stretching.
ErgoTeam Training. Through this component,
selected in-house workers are trained as the company's Ergonomics
Team, with the responsibilities for ergonomic problem-solving
and long-term success of the Ergonomics Program. The training
complies with OSHA ergonomics guidelines.
