CompNotes September09

September 17, 2009

An educational resource for schools served by SFM

Teachers get injured, too
Prevent back-to-school injuries

Back-to-school time can mean injuries for teachers. The sources for some injuries may seem like a no-brainer, but pointing out the obvious may prevent an injury in the future.

Trips. Watch for electrical cords in the classrooms. Try to minimize cords running from one end of the room to the other. Someone is bound to trip and fall. Cords under the desk can lead to falls, too.

Tip: Ask your custodians to watch for such hazards and to assist teachers with securing cords properly.

Falls. Each year teachers fall from chairs and tables while putting materials up on bulletin boards or the ceiling. Using furniture inappropriately is hazardous.

Tip: Encourage teachers to ask the custodians for help getting a stepstool or ladder. Using proper equipment for reaching up high can prevent fall accidents.

Strains. Teachers are returning from the long summer break. They might not be used to standing for long periods of time or constantly writing on the white boards. They may experience soreness or strained muscles.

Tip: Encourage your faculty to stretch throughout the day. Stretching is a great way to prevent stains, pulled muscles and soreness. Stretching can help get the body ready for work. Order SFM's "Stretching Works @ Work" kit to get a stretching program started in your school.

A good rule of thumb is not to take common sense safety for granted. It's oftentimes the obvious hazards that are overlooked and lead to serious injuries.

Advice from SFM's print publication

Nine students awarded SFM Foundation scholarships

The SFM Foundation has awarded post-secondary education scholarships to nine students, marking the inaugural round of scholarship awards for the newly organized nonprofit.

The nine recipients were selected from among 26 scholarship applications for the 2009-10 school year.