Ergonomics and Universal Design

At the end of the course, students should be able to: 1. apply intervention strategies for the prevention of injuries and accommodation of disability in the contexts of work environments; and 2. apply interventions designed to alter the contextual factors to foster occupational performance.

Definition ergonomics. The scope of ergonomics in Occupational Therapy. Objectives of Ergonomics. Work simplification and energy saving techniques. Joint protection techniques. Application of ergonomics to various aspects of functional performance: self-care, home-making, school, occupation, and recreation. Application of ergonomic principles to various physical conditions with the following: a.) Physical environment: i. Access, ii. Lighting, iii. Ventilation, iv. Temperature, v. Noise. b.) Organisational environment: i. Work flow ii. Work routine/rest breaks iii. Work hours/overtime iv. Work pressure v. Training vi. Line of responsibility C. Individual factors i. Worker interaction ii. Psychological factors D. Individual workstation/task/job i. Tasks ii. Equipment used iii. Tools used iv. Work posture & movements v. Maximum task time. Principles of universal design in relation to occupational performance and the environment. Overview of the models of occupational therapy that emphasise the importance of environment in occupational performance. Discuss assessments and interventions targeted towards. Architectural barriers and challenges to access, home modification and adaptive equipment such as grab bars, raised toilet seat and many others; Adaptations to the environment that support performance, participation and well-being. Measurement and details of disability friendly work spaces and rooms. Functional capacity evaluation. Accommodation of disability in the context of work environments.