Beyond backpacks: Applying ergonomic strategies in school-based settings (March 17, 2026)

Presented by: Sara Loesche  

Ergonomic assessment and intervention in work environments is common in occupational therapy; however, risk factors are present in other settings such as schools. Students engage in sedentary activities, poor posture, and have limited knowledge related to health and wellness (e.g., Duggan, 2018; Bettany-Saltikov et al., 2019). Creating healthy habits during school years may reduce chronic issues in adulthood. This webinar will begin with an overview of ergonomics, risk factors, and connection to occupational models in occupational therapy. Participants will then consider how risk factors are present in the school environment and in common daily activities of students including sitting posture, use of devices, and backpacks. Current literature will be presented to support the need for wellness initiatives to avoid more chronic musculoskeletal issues in adulthood and the rationale for why early education and habit building is essential.

After taking part in this webinar, participants will be able to: 

1. Identify ergonomic risk factors in school settings that impact the health and wellness of students.
2. Apply principles of occupational models to propose solutions to ergonomic risk factors in school settings.
3. Discuss and brainstorm both opportunities and barriers for occupational therapy professionals to implement ergonomic programs in school-based settings.

Level  Beginner (0-2 years of experience in this specific practice area)

Area of practice Ergonomics, Health Promotion & Wellness, Pediatrics 

Client age group Children (5-12 years old), Adolescents (13-19 years old)