24 July 2009

We make scaring good for you

Monsters Inc. wants to keep its workforce healthy, just as any employer would. One way to help a staff to a healthier lifestyle is to inform them of potential hazards and how to avoid injury. This sign is posted in both the Monsters Inc. Meet area of Disney’s Hollywood Studio and in the queue of the Magic Kingdom’s Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor. The information on Repetitive Scare Injury is provided by the Monster Ergonomics Institute (MEI) and explains the effects of long-term scaring and tips to avoid RSI. Here’s what the poster has to offer:
It is important to remember proper Ergonomics when scaring. Permanent injury can often result when basic RSI guidelines are not followed. Below are the common indications of Repetitive Scare Injury. If you are experiencing any RSI warning signs, consult your local Monster Ergonomics Representative for advice.

1. Permanent Scowl – Also known as the day grimace, permanent scowl can result from over-taxed facial muscles during repetitive scare sessions. To avoid facial strain, put on a happy face between scares.
2. Hunched Back – Hunch Back is symptomatic from stooping through children’s doors and leaning over children’s beds. Other complications car arise from this condition, including muscle spasms, achey neck, poor posture and back humps. While humps can improve ones’ physical appearance, the hunch back can make some of the most mundane activities difficult. The best preventative measure is back, neck and arm stretching.
3. Horn & Claw Chafing – Low ceilings, hardwood floors, unforeseen obstacles are just a few of the hazards that can chafe horns and claws. When not treated, chafing leads to chipping, and chipping can lead to horn and claw loss. Proper polishing and manicure is the best way to preserve your best assets.
4. Hoarse Voice – Scaring day in and day out places an inordinate demand on any monster. The greatest demand falls on the voice, and as any scarer knows, no scream–no scare. To keep your voice in its top form, gargle warm water between scares, and balance your range with softer, high-pitch vocal exercises.

Basic RSI Guidelines:

1. Stoop, Stand, and Stretch
2. For every mean face, make a happy face
3. A gargle a day keeps the hoarsies away
4. Clean horns make healthy horns
5. Sing after you scream
6. Avoid unnecessary exposure to kids
7. Know your layout–don’t squint in the dark
8. Practice deep bellowing exercises
9. Stretch your wings
10. Exercise your eyes–the put them back
11. Flex your tentacles–don’t keep them curled
12. Wash your claws after every shift

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