You Asked for It
May 2002

"Who can call themselves an Ergonomist? How can I get "certified" to do assessments?

At present, anyone walking down the street can call themselves an Ergonomist. Thankfully, the public is becoming aware of what ergonomics is and what consultants in this field do, so that they know to ask questions about background and skills. Anyone calling themselves a Professional Ergonomist or use the designation PE after their title, must be accredited by a certifying body.

The Association of Canadian Ergonomists has been working hard to develop credibility in the profession of Ergonomists. One of the major hurdles was overcome 2 years ago with the creation of the Canadian College of Certified Professional Ergonomists. This body is responsible for determining if an Ergonomist meets the criteria to call him/herself a Canadian Certified Professional Ergonomist (CCPE). The process involves an evaluation of the candidates education, experience and expertise. More information about the certification process can be found on the new ACE web site: www.ace.ergonomist.ca.

In the States, there is an American version called the Board of Certified Professional Ergonomists (BCPE). Their evaluation is a rigorous examination. Canadians who have their BCPE designation are usually grandfathered into the CCPE.

There is no such thing as being certified to do specific aspects of ergonomics, such as work station assessments, physical demands analysis or other components. Training in the area of ergonomics is multi-disciplinary. This is because the practice of ergonomics requires a systems approach which not only explores the physical parameters, but also the cognitive, the engineering, the design....

Some trainers (myself included) may offer a certificate on completion of a course or training program. This does not mean that a person is certified to do assessments. It is simply a statement of attendance.

Certification of ergonomists is a means of ensuring standards of practice and a code of ethics. Although the process is time consuming for the Ergonomist, the public can be assured of high quality services and thoroughly knowledgeable consultants.

Feedback

Shortly after I wrote the above article on "who can call themselves ergonomists?", a draft commentary on the same issue was prepared by an ACE member. Remember, this is a draft paper - not the final opinion, but does present some food for thought. At the end of the article is a list is questions to ask when investigating which Ergonomist to hire or contract. This kind of information will also be on the ACE website when the consultants directory is up and running.

"What Ergonomists Do"

Ergonomists participate in the design of systems to optimize overall system performance. From an ergonomics point-of-view, a system is comprised of devices, tools, technologies, environments, and/or organizational structures with which people interact to accomplish defined objectives. Ergonomists contribute to the design and evaluation of tasks, jobs, products, environments and systems in order to make them compatible with the needs, abilities and limitations of people. Ergonomists use a holistic approach and will ensure that physical, cognitive, social, organizational, environmental and other relevant factors are taken into account when making recommendations regarding the design or modification of a system.

Academic Backgrounds

Because of the wide scope of ergonomics, the academic background of an Ergonomist can vary widely. An Ergonomist may have a degree in psychology, engineering, medicine, Kinesiology, computer science, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, etc. However, a background in Kinesiology, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, engineering, psychology, etc. is not, in itself, enough to make someone an Ergonomist. This background is a good starting point but ergonomists need to have specific education and training in ergonomics methods, theory, concepts, and principles. This is obtained only when a person takes a variety of university level courses that cover different ergonomics subject areas. Just taking a single course called ‘ergonomics’ isn’t enough. After all, you wouldn’t want someone to treat you for a heart problem if they had taken a single course call ‘medicine’. An engineer, occupational therapist, kinesiologist, psychologist, doctor, etc. would not typically have been exposed to the breadth of courses required to be an Ergonomist unless s/he consciously took electives and courses that were outside of the standard courses offered as part of their academic program. (emphasis added)

Ensuring Qualifications

How does one determine whether a given individual has an appropriate background to competently deliver ergonomics services? At present, there is no law to limit who can call themselves an ‘Ergonomist’. It is truly a ‘buyer beware’ situation, so ask questions about the individual’s background, qualifications, and training.

Consider the following basic questions.

1. Is the person’s academic background and training recognized by a certifying body and/or by an ergonomics association/society?

   Especially if looking for a consultant to perform project work, contracting a certified professional takes much of the guesswork out of whether the person(s) is/are qualified.

   Specifically, is s/he certified by:

   • the Canadian College for the Certification of Professional Ergonomists (CCCPE), with the designation CCPE or CCHFP, or by
   • the Board of Certification for Professional Ergonomics (American), with the designation CPE or CHFP, or by another certifying body that is recognized by the International Ergonomics Association?

   If looking to hire an in-house ergonomics resource, check with the above groups too. Designations exist to denote that a candidate has the required academic background, but perhaps not extensive experience to date. In these cases, look for designations such as:

   • AE, or Associate Ergonomist, through the CCCPE.
   • CEA, or Certified Ergonomics Associate, through the American BCPE.
   • AEP, or Associate Ergonomics Professional, through the American BCPE.

   While the number of certified ergonomists is rapidly growing, not all qualified ergonomists are currently certified. Check if these individuals were Full Members of ACE (pre 2002), as this was the minimum criterion for endorsing a consultant prior to certification through the CCCPE.

2. Is the person qualified to practice in the area of ergonomics you need?

   Similar to many other professions, ergonomists often specialize in a specific area of ergonomics practice. Ensure that you hire an Ergonomist with education and experience for your particular type of problem.

3. Can the person provide relevant references?

   Always ask for references. If the person is unable or unwilling to provide references, it may be prudent to seek assistance from someone else."

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