Occupational Therapy and Ergonomics

This practical book describes how the principles of ergonomics should be applied by occupational therapists. It clearly demonstrates how to create functional environments to prevent injuries and enabling people with disabilities to engage in everyday occupations. Occupational stress and other psychological variables are considered in the ergonomics of work.

• Includes case studies of an administrative secretary, industrial worker, assembly line food handler and maintenance worker
• Contains a unique insight into the Scandinavian experience in universal design and everyday ergonomics
• Provides material for applying ergonomic principles to the work environment, including descriptions of the most common injuries occurring at work, occupational rehabilitation programs, job analysis, functional capacity assessments, and work samples

Preface.

Acknowledgements.

Chapter 1. Introduction: Purposes, Theory and Assumptions.

Chapter 2. Applying Ergonomic Principles in the Home Environment.

Chapter 3. The Case Study of Ben: Prescription and Use of a Wheelchair.

Chapter 4. The Case Study of Emmy: Preventing Accidental Falls among Older Adults.

Chapter 5. Applying Ergonomic Principles to the Worker and Work Environment.

Chapter 6. Occupational Stress in the Workplace.

Chapter 7. The Case Study of an Administrative Secretary: Working at a Computer Station.

Chapter 8. Using Ergonomic Principles to Effect Change in Industry.

Chapter 9. A Brief History of Occupational Medicine and Ergonomics.

Glossary.

Index.

"Excellent references follow every chapter ...this book is a welcome addition to the limited number of books on the subject." (British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 2007) Occupational Therapy and Ergonomics

Applying Ergonomic Principles to Everyday Occupation in the Home and at Work

The application of ergonomic principles is a key dimension to holistic occupational therapy practice. This book integrates theory and research from the ergonomic literature and applies it to clinical occupational therapy practice.

The field of ergonomics has broadened greatly recently and this textbook reflects that breadth. It incorporates ergonomic principles into interventions and preventive strategies in home, work, leisure and school environments, and includes psychosocial aspects such as stress management. Case studies to illustrate applications in the widely differing fields covered are included.

The book is based on the authors’ experience in four contrasting fields: Franklin Stein has taught a student level course in ergonomics for ten years and has also taught advanced courses in the field. Ingrid Soderback has used ergonomics in working with clients in their homes. Susan Cutler has applied ergonomic principles as a consultant in the school systems. Barbara Larson has used ergonomics working with corporations in developing healthy work environments.

The book will be of interest to all occupational therapists, whether recently qualified or experienced, and will also serve as a key textbook for occupational therapy students.