THE BEST IN ERGONOMICS IS RECOGNIZED

The Center for Office Technology is honoring the best ergonomics efforts among private companies and public entities.

The COT, an association of companies that use and manufacture computer equipment, has introduced an annual Outstanding Office Ergonomics Award as way to further its mission of recognizing and promoting ergonomics programs that keep computer workers safe and comfortable and allow employees to retain their jobs.

"We are concerned about the introduction and use of office technology," said a spokeswoman for the COT in Alexandria, Va.

Established in 1985, the Center for Office Technology publishes training materials employers can use to make office systems safer and more comfortable.

The association also operates a clearinghouse of information on safety and health issues related to computer workstations.

The first Outstanding Office Ergonomics awards were handed out earlier this year to United Services Automobile Assn. in San Antonio and the City of San Jose, Calif.

Nominations for next year's award are being accepted.

Anyone involved in the development or implementation of an ergonomics program at a company, business organization or government entity can submit a nomination.

The deadline for nominations is Nov. 30. Award winners are expected to be announced around the end of February 1999.

For more information, contact the Center for Office Technology, 301 N. Fairfax St., #102, Alexandria, Va. 22314; 703-684-7760; www.cot.org.