American Physical Therapy Association Endorses Plantronics Headsets; APTA Cites Ergonomic Benefits in Preventing Office Injuries

Business Wire, August 16, 1999

SANTA CRUZ, Calif.--(BW HealthWire)--Aug. 16, 1999--

Plantronics, Inc., (NYSE:PLT), the world leader in communications headsets, today announced that the American Physical Therapy Association has endorsed Plantronics headsets as a valuable tool for the prevention of office workplace injuries.

APTA's endorsement follows its review of research materials on the ergonomic benefits of Plantronics headsets in offices, and the evaluation of several Plantronics headset models.

"Headsets can help people maintain good posture while using the telephone as they write messages, type, file or perform other tasks," said APTA President Jan K. Richardson, PT, Ph.D., OCS. "Many people attempt to cradle the telephone handset with the shoulder and ear, causing strain to the neck, shoulder, back and arm. This tension can be greatly reduced with a Plantronics headset."

"APTA's endorsement highlights the health benefits that Plantronics headsets can deliver," said Ken Kannappan, Plantronics president and chief executive officer. "Plantronics headsets provide the ease of hands-free communications, giving people greater comfort and the benefit of a safer, healthier and more productive working environment."

Plantronics will feature the APTA logo on product packaging and advertising to reflect the endorsement and help carry the message that headsets deliver significant ergonomic benefits.

About the American Physical Therapy Association

The American Physical Therapy Association is a national professional organization representing more than 74,000 members who provide preventive and health care services for people of all ages. The goal of APTA is to foster advancements in physical therapy practice, research and education.

About Plantronics

Plantronics introduced the first lightweight communications headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in lightweight communications headsets. A publicly held company with more than 1,800 employees, Plantronics is the leading provider of headsets to telephone companies and the business community worldwide.

Plantronics headsets are also used widely in many Fortune 500 corporations and have been featured in numerous motion pictures and high-profile events, including Neil Armstrong's historic "One small step for man" transmission from the moon in 1969.

Plantronics, Inc., headquartered in Santa Cruz, was founded in 1961 and maintains offices in 18 countries. Plantronics products are sold and supported through a worldwide network of authorized Plantronics marketing partners. Information about the company and its products can be found at www.plantronics.com or by calling 800/544-4660.