2001 Resolution - 010

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SUBJECT: Back Injuries
Introduced by: UAN Executive Council
Date of Resolution: May 24, 2001
Action: Resolution adopted on June 27, 2001

WHEREAS, after 10 years of effort on the part of nurses and the entire labor community, the OSHA Ergonomics Standard was rescinded by the new presidential administration, and therefore no federal protections exist to protect against disabling, work-related back injuries, and

WHEREAS, given the current staffing and shortage crises, nurses are increasingly exposed to the risk factor for back injury,

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the UAN promote state-based legislative strategies to prevent back injuries among health care workers, and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the UAN expand efforts by local bargaining units to negotiate contract language calling for employers to initiate comprehensive ergonomic programs consistent with the proposed OSHA ergonomic standards.