Ergonomics, the science of designing workplaces to fit the human body, has become increasingly vital as companies focus more on employee health and productivity. For professionals who want to specialize in ergonomics assessments, which involve evaluating and improving work environments to prevent injuries, certifications provide a clear path to credibility and expertise. So how many types of ergonomics assessment certifications exist, and where can you get them?
The Role of an Ergonomics Assessment Specialist
An ergonomics assessment specialist is tasked with evaluating workstations, tools, and work environments to identify potential ergonomic hazards. These hazards, such as poor posture, repetitive motions, or improper equipment use, can lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
The specialist’s role involves conducting assessments using tools like OSHA checklists (e.g., W-1, D-2, WAC) and recommending adjustments to mitigate risks. They work across various settings, including offices, manufacturing plants, healthcare facilities, and remote work environments, aiming to enhance employee comfort and productivity. For instance, in office settings, they might assess desk heights and chair ergonomics, while in industrial environments, they focus on machinery design and workflow. This versatility makes the role appealing for those passionate about workplace safety.
Professional and Specialized Certifications
Ergonomic assessment certifications are credentials that equip individuals with the skills to evaluate and improve workplace environments, focusing on reducing physical strain and preventing injuries.
These certifications can be broadly categorized into two types:
- Professional Ergonomics Certifications: These are advanced credentials for individuals aiming to become certified professional ergonomists. They typically require extensive education, work experience, and passing a rigorous examination, and are recognized by the International Ergonomics Association (IEA). These certifications qualify individuals to perform ergonomics assessments as part of their broader ergonomic practice.
- Specialized Ergonomics Assessment Certifications: These are more focused programs designed specifically for conducting ergonomics assessments. They often require less formal education and experience, making them accessible to a wider range of professionals, such as occupational health specialists and workplace safety consultants. These may include certificates upon course completion, which, while not as rigorous as professional certifications, still provide valuable training.
Common Professional Ergonomics Certifications
For those aspiring to become certified professional ergonomists, several internationally recognized certification bodies exist, endorsed by the IEA. These certifications are considered the gold standard in the field and qualify individuals not only to perform ergonomics assessments but also to address broader ergonomic issues across various industries.
Below is a detailed table of these bodies and their certifications:
| Region covered | Name of Certification Board | Professional Level Title(s) | Website Link |
| Argentina | ADEA | Ergónomo Certificado | http://www.adeargentina.org.ar |
| Australia | Human Factors and Ergonomics Society of Australia (HFESA) | Certified Professional Ergonomist | http://www.ergonomics.org.au |
| Brazil | Association of Brazilian Ergonomists (ABERGO) – CisCEB | Ergonomista Certificado [CDEC] | http://www.abergo.org.br/ |
| Canada+ | Canadian College for the Certification of Professional Ergonomists (CCCPE) | Certified Canadian Professional Ergonomist (CCPE) | https://www.cccpe.ca/en |
| Europe + | Centre for Registration of European Ergonomists (CREE) | European Ergonomist (Eur.Erg) | http://www.eurerg.eu/ |
| Japan + | Japan Human Factors and Ergonomics Society–Committee on Certification of Professional Ergonomists | Certified Professional Ergonomist (CPE) | http://www.ergonomics.jp/cpe/en |
| New Zealand | Professional Affairs Board – Human Factors and Ergonomics Society of New Zealand | Certified Professional Member | http://www.hfesnz.org.nz/ |
| South Africa | Ergonomics Society of South Africa | Certified Professional Ergonomist (CPE) | https://ergonomicssa.com/cea-cpe/ |
| United States of America + | Board of Certification in Professional Ergonomics (BCPE) | Certified Professional Ergonomist (CPE), Certified Human Factors Professional (CHFP), Certified User Experience Professional (CUXP) | http://www.bcpe.org/ |
| Mexico | National College of Ergonomics in Mexico | Certified Professional Ergonomist (CPE) | http://www.semac.org.mx/index.php/cnemac.html |
| United Kingdom + | Chartered Institute for Ergonomics & Human Factors (CIEHF) | Chartered Ergonomist and Human Factors Specialist (C.ErgHF) | http://www.ergonomics.org.uk/ |
Some bodies, like BCPE, offer multiple certifications under their program, such as Certified Professional Ergonomist (CPE), Certified Human Factors Professional (CHFP), and Certified User Experience Professional (CUXP), totaling six distinct titles from BCPE alone.
These professional certifications are ideal for individuals seeking comprehensive expertise in ergonomics, including the ability to conduct detailed assessments. They can be obtained by contacting the relevant certification body directly, with detailed information available on their websites, such as BCPE Certifications for the U.S. or CCCPE Website for Canada.
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If you’re serious about helping teams work safer and smarter, getting certified through Ergo Global is a no-brainer. Their training doesn’t just check a box—it sets you up to lead ergonomic initiatives with confidence and credibility.
