Use care in handling DDC materials including books and other publications.
Before handling materials, wash your hands or use Purell Hand Wipes, which are stored on the shelf in the kitchen area.
Do not eat gum or candy when handling materials.
Do not keep food or beverages near collection materials.
Use gloves when handling photographs.
Don't leave boxes directly on the floor, in case of leaks and flooding. Boxes should be put on pallets, plastic bins, or shelves.
Bend at your knees rather than at your waist. Keep your spine straight.
When lifting and carrying an object, hold it close to your body-no higher than chest level.
Don't twist or reach while lifting.
Push rather than pull when moving heavy objects such as furniture, and remember to bend at the knees.
Do not store heavy and/or large boxes above chest level.
If a box is heavy, ask a second person to help you lift it, or unload contents into two boxes.
Avoid overloading and over-stacking on carts and shelves. Move no more than four record cartons on a cart. If in doubt, ask for help.
Use the metal ramps when rolling book trucks in and out of the elevators.
Use carts to move boxes. Use the dumbwaiter to move boxes between levels.
View a slide show on Proper Lifting Techniques on the Mayo Clinic website.
Alert your supervisor if a collection smells bad or has visible mold or mildew – these materials can be hazardous. For working with these collections, we may have the materials treated or have you work under the fume hood at Wunsch Lab. If you are particularly bothered by the smell or dust in a collection let your supervisor know. There are aprons available on the mezzanine (by the elevator) and dust masks in the supply cabinets (by staff door) if you are working with an especially dirty or dusty collection. Note: the masks only provide protection from nuisance dust and do not protect against mold spores.
We may have materials on some topics that you may find emotionally upsetting. If you are distressed by the content of a collection you are processing, it's okay. Please talk to you supervisor and we will work together to find a solution.
Stay hydrated! You may keep a water bottle with you as long as it is kept off of surfaces holding collections materials.
You are entitled to breaks. Don't forget to take your meal breaks if you are working 6 or more hours. Let your supervisor know if you have trouble scheduling a break. You may also take short breaks during your shift.
Move. Consider using breaks to stretch and be more active. You'll feel better.
Treat yourself. The DDC Contingent Workers Working Group maintains a self-care kit in the break room. Treat yourself to a snack, hot chocolate, or other contents. We also maintain literature for self-care tips, dealing with mental health issues, and managing stress. Remote workers may visit our virtual self-care kit.
Realize burnout happens. It’s okay. We realize between school, work, and life in general, things may feel overwhelming at times. Don’t be afraid to ask your supervisor for accommodations – we want to help!
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Managing Stress
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Coping with Stress