Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an occupational therapist and an ergonomist?
Many occupational therapists practise ergonomics and some become certified in this area. The role of occupational therapy in ergonomics is to enable and optimize function in daily living activities in both the home and work environment. Examples of occupational therapy intervention in ergonomics include: work-site assessments (job analysis, physical demands analysis), return-to-work programs, job accommodation , modification of job tasks and the work environment to promote function, health promotion programs including stress management and injury prevention programs.
Ergonomics is the science of designing the job to fit the worker, rather than fitting the worker to the job. The focus of ergonomics is the relationship between the worker and the work environment. Occupational therapists practise ergonomics as it fits well with their Canadian Model of Occupational Performance which emphasizes the influence of the environment on behaviour and the interaction between the person and the environment.
The Association of Canadian Ergonomists (ACE) is the professional organization representing professionals practising ergonomics in Canada. For more information, contact: http://www.ace-ergocanada.ca.
