MHIA Awards First Research Grant to Ohio State University

Aug. 1, 2008
CHARLOTTE, N.C.The Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) is directly funding material handling and logistics research for the first time. A $50,000

CHARLOTTE, N.C.—The Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) is directly funding material handling and logistics research for the first time.

A $50,000 grant will support Ohio State University (OSU) researchers in creating a research center focused on distribution ergonomics. The research grant is provided by MHIA through its College Industry Council on Material Handling Education (CICMHE).

Dr. Carolyn Sommerich and Dr. Stephen Lavender of OSU were awarded the grant for the research proposal titled, “Developing a Distribution Ergonomics Research Center.”

OSU aims to create a research center that develops and evaluates ergonomic methods, tools and processes that allow DC workers to work more safely and efficiently. It also seeks to develop partnerships between regional DCs and material handling equipment manufacturers to assist DCs in becoming “workplaces of excellence” through the use of ergonomics and lean engineering.

“MHIA is proud to support this important research which will contribute significantly to the body of knowledge on ways to improve the safety and productivity of warehouses and distribution centers,” says Daniel Quinn, vice chairman, education planning and professional development at MHIA. “Going forward, MHIA is anxious to support research such as this which will benefit the safety and productivity of factories and warehouses in the U.S.”

MHIA also announced it will provide increased funding for material handling and logistics research proposals during the 2009-2010 academic year. MHIA will send a call for proposals later this year.