INTRODUCTION
This application will link you to several Web sites that deal with the investigation and evaluation of workplace hazards by the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA). The first Web site details the process by which an individual files a complaint with OSHA. The next two sites focus on cutting-edge issues at OSHA. The second Web site explains OSHA's Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP) while the third Web site turns its attention to the subject of ergonomics and the new OSHA Ergonomics Standard. A discussion of the investigation and evaluation of workplace hazards and related concepts may be found in Chapter 17 of French's Human Resource Management, 5th ed.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Having successfully completed this application, you will be able to:

• Detail how a formal complaint is filed with OSHA and the content of such a complaint.
• Explain what the VPP is and how it works.
• Define ergonomics and explain how it relates to the prevention of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs).

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS AND ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS
Instruction 1: Access the following Web site: http://www.lectlaw.com/, then follow the Rotunda, Laypeople's Law Lounge, and How to File a Complaint with OSHA links in order to answer Questions 1 and 2.
Question 1: How does one file a formal complaint with OSHA?
Question 2: What information should be given in the complaint?

Instruction 2: Access the following Web site: http://www.osha.gov/, then proceed to the Outreach section and follow the VPP, An Overview of VPP, and Benefits of Participating in VPP links in order to answer Questions 3 and 4.
Question 3: In reference to the An Overview of VPP link, what is the VPP?
Question 4: Referring to both of the last two links, how does a firm qualify for VPP certification and what does the certification mean in practical terms?

Instruction 3: Access the following Web site: http://www.osha.gov/, then proceed to the Ergonomics section and follow the links in order to answer Questions 5 through 7.
Question 5: What is an MSD, and how do you determine whether an MSD is work-related?
Question 6: What is the scientific evidence about the causes of WMSDs and what conclusions have been reached?
Question 7: What are the four segments of OSHA's strategy for reducing injuries and illnesses from MSD's in the workplace?