4-18-11
Green Ergonomics and Occupational Therapy: An Emerging Practice
Bethesda, MD—What do green ergonomics, sustainable design and occupational therapy have in common? Lots, according to Julie Dorsey, assistant professor at Ithaca College and Dr. Karen Jacobs, clinical professor of occupational therapy at Boston University.
Green ergonomics refers to the incorporation of ergonomics into sustainable design for the purposes of improving health, well being, and productivity at both the individual and systems or organizational level.
The goals of sustainable design and ergonomics intersect, in that they focus on designing spaces, activities, and products that positively impact both the user and the environment
With Earth Day around the corner, Dorsey and Jacobs describe how occupational therapy practitioners can contribute to sustainable building design through marketing their expertise in ergonomics to the Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) green building certification system as well as the green school movement.
To learn more about the topic, listen to the podcast on the topic, http://www.aota.org/Consumers/consumers/Podcasts.aspx.
The green school movement is in 19 states with the mission of promoting “greener & healthier learning environments through education and awareness.” Visit the Green Schools Web site for ideas and inspiration.
A “Green Ergonomics and Occupational Therapy” fact sheet and the podcast text are available.
Founded in 1917, the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) represents the professional interests and concerns of more than 140,000 occupational therapists, assistants, and students nationwide. The Association educates the public and advances the profession of occupational therapy by providing resources, setting standards including accreditations, and serving as an advocate to improve health care. Based in Bethesda, Md., AOTA’s major programs and activities are directed toward promoting the professional development of its members and assuring consumer access to quality services so patients can maximize their individual potential. For more information, go to www.aota.org.
