It’s important to be aware that when spending time outside, especially in wooded areas or spaces with tall grass or other vegetation, you may encounter a tick. To prevent the transmission of Lyme disease or other tick-borne illnesses, it should be removed immediately and carefully from the body. Read on for preventative measures you can take to stay safe.

Take these 7 steps to protect yourself

1. Limit your time in heavily wooded or grassy areas, and be alert for possible ticks that may be on your clothing or skin, including your scalp.

2. Take preventative measures such as wearing a hat and long sleeves and tucking pants into your socks to help to deter ticks, which are more common in wooded areas and long grass.

3. Use a repellent. “DEET is considered safe by Health Canada, so I have no problem recommending it [to repel ticks],” says UM entomologist Kateryn Rochon. She also notes that there is a newly approved chemical now available in Canada called Icaridin.

4. Immediately perform a self-check upon coming back indoors after spending time outside. That includes checking children and pets as well.

5. Familiarize yourself with instructions on tick removal. You can prevent the transmission of Lyme disease or other tick-borne illnesses by immediately and carefully removing it from the body.

6. Monitor for symptoms. If you have been bitten by a tick that carries the bacteria that causes Lyme disease, symptoms will typically be noticed in 3-30 days. Symptoms of Lyme disease may vary, but generally include a rash at the site of infection, headaches, fever, fatigue, chills, and muscle aches. If in doubt, see your doctor.

7. Seek medical attention. If you cannot remove the tick yourself, seek medical attention to assist. It is good practice to take a photo of the removed tick or place it in a bag in order to identify the type of tick and the potential need for further medical attention.

More about blacklegged ticks

Black-legged tick.

Deer ticks, also known as blacklegged ticks, are approximately 2 to 5 mm in length; and are distinctly bright red and dark brown in colour. They can be very small and look like “black sesame seeds,” according to Rochon.

“Check yourself, check your pets, and your children. Try to prevent attachment by covering your skin with repellent and clothing,”

Black-legged ticks cannot jump or fly. Instead, they seek hosts by climbing on vegetation such as grasses or shrubs and waiting for a host to rub against them. The tick will attach to a human in order to feed on their blood. The bite is painless, and you may not even feel it. The best way to know if you have been bitten by a tick is to perform a self-check after being outside.

In Manitoba, there are several species of ticks but only one species, the Deer tick (or blacklegged tick), is responsible for spreading tick-borne diseases to humans.

Additional resources on ticks and removing ticks

Tips on staying safe during tick season

Check yourself, your children and your pets

How to identify ticks (Health Canada)

UM tick series (videos)

Well-functioning HVAC systems support overall COVID-19 safety protocols (measures such as vaccinations, masking, cleaning) by removing and diluting aerosols that may contain viruses from indoor spaces.

It is important to note that adjusting ventilation will not affect transmission between individuals who are in close proximity. Practicing safety fundamentals—wearing a mask, physical distancing, hand hygiene—is of utmost importance.

To support the anticipated increase of in-person activity on campus in September 2021, UM has enhanced ventilation protocols—many of which have been in place since early 2020—by reviewing ventilation systems and working to optimize the capabilities of these systems.

Some additional measures that have been taken are:

• Filters inspected to ensure they are functioning properly.
• All demand ventilation systems disabled to keep the air handling operating at full capacity even during low-occupancy periods.
• As seasonal conditions allow, mixed air systems are set to 100% fresh air.

With these enhancements in place, operations of the university’s ventilation systems align with COVID-19 public health requirements and recommendations, as outlined by COVID safety recommendations.

Read on for details.

Measures for improved ventilation

These measures are being implemented across campus:

1. Increasing outdoor air intake: Ventilation systems on campus optimized within system capabilities to maximize the amount of outdoor air being supplied to classrooms and other building areas. Increased outdoor air supply to building spaces has been identified by COVID safety recommendations as a key measure which may help in reducing the spread of COVID-19 within buildings.
2. Increasing air exchanges by extending fan run-times: Operating schedules for ventilation systems on campus extended to include times before and after building occupied hours, and in some cases to run 24/7. This will increase the number of daily air exchanges and ensure that spaces are well-ventilated. COVID safety recommendations recommends this practice to increase the amount of air exchanges within building spaces to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.
3. Checking filters: To ensure ventilation system filtration is working optimally within system designs, filters are checked frequently as part of the regularly scheduled preventative maintenance routines. Routine inspections and maintenance can be helpful in reducing the spread of viruses. Most Fort Garry campus buildings have MERV 8 filters, with some renovated buildings having up to MERV 14. All Bannatyne campus buildings have been upgraded to MERV 11 filters with many buildings having MERV 14 additional filters. In many cases pre-filters are used to extend the life of the main filter. The ASHRAE recommendations are reviewed and followed as closely as possible https://www.ashrae.org/technical-resources/filtration-disinfection.
4. Preventative maintenance: All campus ventilation systems are catalogued within our Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) and receive regular preventative maintenance service routines including filter changes, inspections and repairs as needed. Filters are checked monthly and can last from 1-2 months to 6-12 months depending on the area and the outside conditions.
5. Air purifiers: Local air purification systems may be considered in areas without sufficient ventilation systems. Some users may use a local HEPA filtration unit in their work area as an additional measure, but these are not deemed as necessary for many of the campus areas. For the few buildings identified as unsuitable for use by more than 2 or 3 persons at a time, faculty have been notified.

 What you can do

1. Get vaccinated. Public Health recommends this as a key COVID-19 control measure.
2. Follow recommended Public Health practices. This may include the use of masks, distancing, hand sanitation and staying home when you are ill.
3. Open windows. The use of operable windows during favourable weather conditions is encouraged as an additional way to bring more outside air into classroom and other building spaces.
4. Avoid fans and window AC units. The use of personal desk fans, low ceiling fans, window air conditioners, and other devices which could create high velocity air flows in open office spaces or other shared spaces is being discouraged. If window AC units must be used, the recommendation is to direct air flow away from occupants in the space. 
5. Report ventilation issues. Let the Operations and Maintenance team know if there is a ventilation issue affecting your workspace.

Please direct inquires regarding ventilation the Operations & Maintenance customer service desk at ppwod@umanitoba.ca or banwod@umanitoba.ca 

For any concerns regarding environment, health and safety at the UM, contact the Environment, Health and Safety Office at EHSO@umanitoba.ca

There are a number of resources available to help, including remote ergonomic assessments available through the environmental health & safety office.

“A lot of people are having trouble with their home workstation setups,” says Judy Shields, occupational health coordinator in the environmental health & safety office.

“Some faculty and staff have one main setup, while others are carrying a laptop from place to place throughout the day. Many people are finding that they’re working longer hours in a less than ideal home office, as they balance their job responsibilities with the challenges of family responsibilities.”

She says that employees finding it difficult to set up a comfortable home office should reach out to her.

“Even if it’s just for a conversation,” she says. “A lot of people are struggling, so I want you to know that you’re are not alone. We can usually figure out what’s not working for you and find a way to make things better, just by tweaking a couple of things.”

It’s about angles

Each remote ergonomic assessment begins with a phone call. An assessment will include talking through the placement of your body and equipment, from your head down to your feet.

Shields has found that remote assessments are working out quite well. The process is simple and not complicated as some may think.

“We would start with talking about your posture while sitting or standing. Do you have a 90 degree angle at your hips while sitting? Do you have a 90 degree angle at your elbows while doing data entry? Do you have lumbar support while sitting? Are your feet firmly on the floor? Sometimes I speak to a faculty or staff member two or three times over the course of a week or two.” says Shields.

Adjustable chair: ergonomic magic item

Shields encourages employees to speak to their supervisors about borrowing ergonomic equipment from their office such as adjustable chairs, monitors, keyboards or mice.

“An adjustable chair is the most important piece of equipment to make sure your home office is fit for everyday work. A chair can be adjusted to your needs—whether you’re working at a desk or at the kitchen table.”

Laptops are great for portable home offices, but ergonomic modifications should be considered when using these devices. A laptop used full time works best if the user has a separate keyboard and mouse to use with it.  This allows the laptop to be positioned at the correct height for the worker.

Using items in your home, you can create the needed ergonomic angles once you’re in the proper seated position, which is more easily attained when using an adjustable chair. Banker boxes or other sturdy flat containers can be used for foot stools, you can roll up towels to create lumbar support and socks can be used to create a wrist rest, to name a few of the possible adjustments.  

Standing workstations can also be created with furniture and equipment in your home, like an ironing board or by placing a large plastic tote, such as a Rubbermaid container on a tabletop.

Keep moving

Staying in any one position for long periods can cause issues. Try to get up and move every 30 minutes, for at least 5 minutes and remember to stretch throughout the day. Here are some tips to help you during the workday:

• Have standing or walking meetings;
• Schedule short breaks into your day to move and stretch;
• Take part in physical activities during your lunch break;
• Organize a fun step/activity challenge within your faculty or unit.

Resources to help set up your home office

A list of resources can be found on UM Occupational Health and Worker’s Compensation webpage to assist with setting up and adjusting your home workspace. Also see:

• Ergonomic tips for temporary home offices (Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers Inc.)
• At home workstation self-assessment checklist (MFL Occupational Health Centre)
• Setting up a temporary home office (Institute for Work and Health)
• Best practices for at-home ergonomics (Andrew Dolhy, CPE)
• Hand-held devices tip sheet – overuse of hand-held devices (MFL Occupational Health Centre)

“If you only have time to read one resource, make sure to read ergonomic tips for temporary home offices,” says Shields. “You’ll find that the suggestions are not complicated and that the tips and ergonomic adjustments include items that are found in the average home.”

She says that she hopes people reach out before they are struggling and in pain.

“I’m here to help.”

Contact Judy Shields at 204-474 6438 or judy.shields@umanitoba.ca to set up your ergonomic assessment.

Managers can speak with their HR consultant if they have questions or concerns. They can also speak to Judy Shields if they have questions about ergonomic assessments.

The Reasonable Accommodation Fund (RAF) is available to financially assist with purchases of adaptive equipment or software for employees with medical conditions that create workplace barriers.

This regular series celebrates our faculty and staff, showcasing the range of positions, unique career paths, meaningful work and impact on others at the University of Manitoba. The series shines a spotlight on our staff and faculty, inspiring others building their career at the U of M or interested in joining our community as an employee.

WHAT DO YOU DO AS A OCCUPATIONAL HYGIENE TECHNOLOGIST?

Frederick Reyes: The Environmental Health and Safety Office provides a wide variety of services and programs to ensure workers are safe and in compliance with regulatory bodies. As the Occupational Hygiene Technologist, I manage the Hazardous Waste Program at both campuses, provide Transportation of Dangerous Good Training and consultation for university employees to ship and receive dangerous goods and also provide Respiratory Fit Testing. 

HOW DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR CAREER PATH?

My career path was unplanned. I had an interest in science in high school so I pursued it in university and obtained my Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from the U of M. After graduation, I preferred the science industry over research and worked in the private sector. Over time, I was looking for more of a challenge and more opportunity for growth so I started looking for positions in environmental waste management since I could still use my science background but in a different setting. I initially worked with Clean Harbours and eventually came back to the U of M to work in the waste management program in Environmental Health and Safety. As a former student, you really never thought twice about what happened to your lab waste.  It is really interesting to be on the other side of that now,  with the collection, processing and final disposal of those items.

WHAT DO YOU VALUE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY IN GENERAL AND U OF M IN PARTICULAR?

The university provides a great environment that accommodates a flexible work-life balance. As employees, we get benefits, vacation, and sick time that most employers would not provide.

IF YOU WERE TO DESCRIBE WORKING AT THE U OF M AND THE UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY TO SOMEONE ELSE, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY?

The U of M has a dynamic environment that is centred on a culture of higher education and wellness for both students and staff. As staff we can take advantage of many opportunities on campus from professional development to the new recreational facilities. As well, it’s very much a collaborative setting, I’ve been able to learn from not just my colleagues but also establish relationships with other departments and faculties on campus.

FREDERICK REYES, OCCUPATIONAL HYGIENE TECHNOLOGIST // PHOTOS BY MIKE LATSCHISLAW

AT THE UNIVERSITY, WE EMPHASIZE A “SPIRIT OF DISCOVERY”: HOW HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED THAT AT THE U OF M OR IN YOUR WORK?

As I am part of the hazardous waste management team, I literally have to embrace the “spirit of discovery”! I come across some interesting finds in labs and old work spaces where items have been neglected. I’ve seen “mystery” items that we can’t identify because of lack of labels or documentation. It adds a certain element of danger to my work!

WE OFTEN TALK ABOUT WORK-LIFE BALANCE AND WELLNESS IN THE WORKPLACE – HOW DO YOU STRIVE FOR BALANCE IN THE WORKDAY, ESPECIALLY DURING PERIODS OF HEAVY WORKLOADS?

I try to find time for myself by going to the gym – using exercise is a good relief and clears the mind. Also, there are some of us in the office who also have regular reality show drafts which definitely makes for lighter more fun discussions from time to time. 

IF YOU HAD TO ONBOARD A NEW FACULTY OR STAFF MEMBER, WHAT TIPS WOULD YOU GIVE?

The university is a unique work environment, which translates to a unique work experience.  If I had to onboard a new staff member I would explain to them that the university is a very dynamic place, and what you put in is what you get out of it.  There are plenty opportunities for professional development, as well as the ability to use a wide variety of facilities such as the Active Living Center or Max Bell.

HOW DID YOU COME TO THIS CAREER?

Prior to working at the university, I was working for an Environmental Services company that the university would often use.  With the scope of work that we provided, it was integral to provide excellent customer service to ensure continued business.  When a similar job position was available at the U of M, it was difficult to pass up.  With my previous work experience and the relationships I established providing client-services it worked in my favour to successfully get the positon at the university. Lesson being, you will never know when or where the next opportunity will come from so always put you best foot forward.

WHAT YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK AT THE U OF M?

Being able to interact with so many different people on campus is a definite highlight. As I am also responsible for the Transportation of the Dangerous Goods (TDG) Program, I get to teach a variety of people from researchers to students to administrative staff. I even learned how to solve a Rubik’s cube because of my ongoing relationships with staff in another department! Also, because of the nature of the hazardous waste program, I’m not sitting in my office all day as I have to visit labs and workspaces to pick up hazardous waste. 

HOW HAS YOUR WORK BROUGHT OUT THE BEST IN YOU?

It has made sure that I always provide a good working relationship with whomever I am dealing with.  That way, if they have any questions about our programs (TDG and Hazardous Waste Management), they are comfortable in contacting our office for assistance. This becomes important because if our clients don’t feel comfortable asking, they might dispose of their items incorrectly or cause issues or delays with inappropriate packaged samples for transport.

Visit the Environmental Health and Safety Office news network to discover more about their resources and services.

For additional Meet Our Community: Coffee with a Co-Worker stories, visit the human resources website.

If you are interested in being featured in this series, please contact Kayli Steinhilber, HR Communications Specialist at kayli [dot] steinhilber [at] umanitoba [dot] ca or 204-474-9953.