ERGONOMIC CONSULTATION

Ergonomics - its all about the people and the equipment they use and the environment that they work in order for the person to work efficiently, productively and safely. This videoclip explains what ergonomics is: Occupational therapists are well suited to fit into ergonomic consultancy. From our training we naturally take into consideration the concept of POE or the person, occupation and environment. We have training in kiniesiolgy so are well aware of basic muscle mechanics, and we understand the importance of efficient muscular actions on the human body and how this can impact on the way individuals are able to particpate in tasks. When people hear ergonomic consultation they automatically think that it just about setting up office/computer work stations to be more effective for workers, but it can also cover seating in other capacities such as machinery,inventions to make people's jobs easier, manual handling techniques, safe lifting techniques and even utilization of correct ergonomics in the home. In Machinery design process the placement of handles and stairs, and placement of the instrument panel in the machine are all carefully designed with ergonomic principles in mind. This clip features the truck purchaser for an American trucking company. She explains the importance of ergonomics when considering what she will buy for the company. Ergonomic consultancy could proove to be another area that occupational therapists would shine, based on their knowledge and expertise and understanding of the inter-related importance of the environment, person and occupation/task.