Ergonomics, Occupational Therapy, and Computers

Abstract

The use of computers in our daily home and work environment is increasing. Occupational therapy computer users and clinicians need to be aware of the psychological and physical adaptations which are required by individuals using video display terminals (VDTs). Ergonomics, the study of the interaction between the worker and the work environment, is dedicated to the promotion of worker health, safety, and productivity. The rehabilitationist's goals have always been to bring the patient to his or her optimal level of functioning, often involving the adaptation of the individual workstation in a retrospective manner. However, it is the role of the ergonomist to design work environments which anticipate and adapt to the physical and psychological needs of its workers. This paper will review basic ergonomic design principles for VDT workstations, which can assist the occupational therapist.