Affiliations: [a] EWI Works International, Edmonton, AB, Canada | [b] Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
Correspondence:
[*]
Address for correspondence: Catherine L.W. Ritchie, EWI Works International – Unit 201, 5677-99 Street, Edmonton, AB, T6E 3N8, Canada. Tel.: +1 780 436 0024; Fax: +1 780 436 0092; E-mail: critchie@ewiworks.com.
Abstract: Telehealth approaches to delivering ergonomics assessment hold great potential to improve service delivery in rural and remote settings. This case study describes a telehealth-based ergonomics service delivery process, and compares in-person and telehealth-based ergonomics approaches at an Alberta-based non-profit advocacy group. This project demonstrates that telehealth approaches to ergonomics do not lead to significantly different scoring outcomes for assessment of ergonomics issues, when compared to in-person assessments. This project also outlines the importance of live real-time video conferencing to improving communication, attaining key assessment information, and demonstrating ergonomic adjustments. However, some key considerations of bandwidth and hardware capabilities need to be taken into account. Key communication strategies are outlined to improve rapport, maintain employee confidentiality, and reduce client anxiety around telehealth ergonomics assessments. This project provides further support for telehealth approaches to office ergonomics, and outlines some key implementation strategies and barriers that should be considered.
Keywords: Ergonomics, telehealth, rural and remote, workplace assessment, field study
