What is the role of the ESSA?
The role of the Ergonomics Society of South Africa can be sub-divided into four core areas which are outlined below:
Certification
It is the responsibility of ESSA and its Professional Affairs Board (PAB) to facilitate the certification of ergonomics in South Africa. ESSA is a federated society of the International Ergonomics Association (IEA) who provides criteria for the certification of ergonomists at an appropriate level of both education and experience.
Awareness & Understanding
Since ergonomics globally, and particularly in South Africa, is a relatively new profession, there is both a lack of understanding of and awareness of ergonomics within the South African framework. As the bastions of Ergonomics in South Africa it is the role of ESSA to promote:
- An understanding of ergonomics;
- An awareness of the discipline; and
- The benefits that can be derived from the successful implementation of ergonomics principles in the workplace.
Provide Resources
ESSA serves as a resource point for all of its members and those interested in ergonomics. There is a large array of resources available that can be provided to members with information on pertinent ergonomics issues. These resources include:
- Examples of good practice as evident in South African industries
- Ergonomics guidelines for specific industries (e.g. office ergonomics guidelines, construction industry, etc)
- Ergonomics standards and legislation
These guidelines should be developed with the assistance of relevant stakeholders in the various industries.
Strategic Partnerships
Due to the multi-factorial nature of ergonomics it is imperative for ESSA to develop strategic partnerships with other organizations involved in the workplace.