Mitch Mitchell & Associates have just released WorkPace, an advanced software package for the prevention and rehabilitation of Occupational Overuse Syndrome (OOS)**. The WorkPace software package reminds users to take carefully coordinated breaks called micropauses. By encouraging a very brief period of muscle relaxation, for a few seconds every few minutes, micropauses stop musculoskeletal fatigue before it can begin.
Short pauses like this are seen as far more effective than long breaks taken every hour or so. WorkPace monitors all mouse and keyboard use. It advises the best times for micropauses and restbreaks and monitors typing speed and time worked.
WorkPace also reminds of scheduled breaks, such as lunch, and provides exercises and stretches. The package is designed to minimise work disruption and is highly flexible. WorkPace has proven itself in New Zealand where 6,000 copies have been licensed to that country’s largest employer, the Department of Social Welfare.
Other users of WorkPace include the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in America. WorkPace provides a comprehensive manual and full online help covering working techniques and workplace layout. WorkPace can be installed on any IBM compatible PC and provides support for large networks.
For further information contact Peter Flint on (02) 9683 3522 or 0419 251 019 or write to PO Box 2427, North Parramatta, NSW, 1750.
*Copy provided by Mitch Mitchell & Associates.
**Occupational Overuse Syndrome, also commonly known as RSI, is a major health and safety concern for computer users. It has recently been predicted by OSHA in the United States to account for 50% of work injury costs by the year 2000 in that country.
