Desk side stretching and break reminder

[ssloan]

Good morning all. I have heard about software that can be purchased that will give reminders for a person to take a break/stretch throughout the day. The software also will lead them through/give demos on how to do the stretch. Has anyone heard of these? Can you provide the names/information?

Thanks for your help.
Steve Sloan

[Joey]

Hi, Many companies use a content management system to help run their organization. content management systems allow for document sharing, assigning of tasks, video and picture sharing, time card recording, and reminders. Microsoft Office Sharepoint Server (MOSS) comes to mind as one of the most popular ones, however it can be very pricey. There are free alternatives out there as well. a simple search in Google for "free cms" will bring up several useful results. These options should do exactly what you want with a little customization on your part of course.

Alternatively, I don't know the extent of the softwares capabilities but a company out of Toronto offers a H&S management software package. the website is www.medgate.com. It may be worth looking into and getting a quote.

Lastly, thank you for posting this question, I am a software developer myself hoping to get starting creating a free software package to help manage companies H&S needs. ( I don't believe a good health and safety program should come at a cost) I will be sure to include a reminder functionality with video tips.

I hope you find what you are looking for.

[Sarah Webster]

Hi Steve

I'm an Ergonomist

I always recommend downloading the free software application called WorkSafe Sam, courtesy of WorkSafe BC. Its a great tool.

You can find it at the following link:
http://www2.worksafebc.com/Topics/Ergonomics/Resources-Office.asp

In addition, CCOHS has an excellent Stretching pamphlet for the office environment that you can download for free. Its called Tension Relief - It's a Stretch (available in color, English and French)

http://www.ccohs.ca/products/posters/pdfs/stretching.pdf

An alternative suggestion is to create a reoccurring Stretching reminder in your outlook calendar and perform the stretches outlined in the CCOHS pamplet.

If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to contact me offline at Sarah_Webster@golder.com

Cheers
Sarah Webster