Prior to beginning his career, Tom earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Delaware in 1971.  He then worked toward an MBA at Temple University until he joined Pennsylvania Manufacturers' Association Insurance Company in 1972.  He received an Associate in Risk Management degree from the IIA in 1976.  In 1981, Tom earned the designation of Certified Safety Professional.  He gained registration as a Professional Engineer in 1992, and achieved the status of Certified Industrial Ergonomist in 1996.

 

Since 1982, he has been providing comprehensive Industrial Ergonomics consultation to a wide range of Fortune 1000 companies.  The services emphasize engineering, plus work practice and administrative controls to reduce overexertion associated with manual materials handling and cumulative trauma caused by repetitive motion, forceful exertions and awkward postures.  Cost reduction and medical management strategies are offered to expedite safe return-to-work and effective job rotation plans.  Independent fact finding and testimony serves to resolve disputed Workers' Compensation cases.  Similar consultation helps to resolve Americans with Disabilities Act issues.  Tom provides training in Industrial and Office Ergonomics, plus assistance in Ergonomics Program development and implementation.

 

In 1990, OSHA recognized Tom as an expert in the field of occupational ergonomics in the OSHA Computerized Information System (OCIS) for consultation on both discovery and follow-up inspections.  Tom is a Professional Member of the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE).

 

Tom scientifically evaluates worksites using the latest tools and methodologies to assess the risk of overexertion and cumulative trauma.  He measures key elements of each job and uses force dynamometers, electromyography, goniometry, anthropometry, digital photography and motion video to quantify the risk factors of force, posture, and repetition.  He also employs analytical tools such as the NIOSH Lifting Equation, 3D Static Strength, Energy Expenditure and Posture Analysis computer models, plus Psychophysical data to determine the degree of risk and the extent to which various components of the task contribute to the overall hazard.  When Tom conducts computer workstation evaluations he may use a light meter, optical protractor or a keystroke force gauge during the assessments.  Summary conclusions and potential solutions are then offered to management and engineering.  Work practice, engineering and administrative control alternatives are jointly considered for implementation feasibility and prioritization.  All analytical findings and recommendations are documented in a detailed report.

 

Tom has developed an extensive library of ergonomic references and criteria upon which to substantiate his conclusions.  He also has a wide range of cataloged product literature and resource web sites that offer a variety of practical solutions to ergonomic problems commonly faced by industry.  Solutions are formulated to maximize safety, productivity and operational efficiency.