Development of a certification system and core competencies for professional ergonomists in Thailand
Issued Date
2023-01-01
Resource Type
ISSN
1463922X
eISSN
1464536X
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-85150501691
Journal Title
Theoretical Issues in Ergonomics Science
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Theoretical Issues in Ergonomics Science (2023)
Suggested Citation
Neubert M.S., Charoenporn N., Jalayondeja W., Teeravarunyou S., Kaewdok T., Mekhora K., Taptagaporn S., Arphorn S. Development of a certification system and core competencies for professional ergonomists in Thailand. Theoretical Issues in Ergonomics Science (2023). doi:10.1080/1463922X.2023.2190788 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/20.500.14594/82814
Title
Development of a certification system and core competencies for professional ergonomists in Thailand
Other Contributor(s)
Abstract
To reduce ergonomic risks for their workforce, many industries in Thailand seek assistance from professional ergonomists. However, most academic programs are delivered by instructors with limited human factor and ergonomics (HFE) background, who incorporate either physical or cognitive parts of HFE. To reliably assess and design systems according to HFE principles and standards, programs should be provided by creditable HFE professionals and based on holistic HFE knowledge. The objective of the present study was to initiate a transformation of the professional development in Thailand. The process included a consolidation of the details of HFE education through questionnaires, and identification of requirements from industries through a focus group interview. The results showed a prevalent lack of holistic considerations of HFE knowledge and a primary focus on physical ergonomics. Problems with lack of resources and basic knowledge in design were also reflected by concerns from the industry regarding limited experience, design competency and use of objective methodologies of HFE practitioners. This information was subsequently used to constitute the development of preliminary competencies and a pilot certification system. The proposed competencies and system were then disseminated and additional requirements that need to be incorporated into the professional HFE system were identified.