Why Certification

Certification describes the minimum standards in training (general and ergonomics-related education) and experience (professional practice in ergonomics), and as such, benefits ergonomists and the users of ergonomics services likewise.

There are two levels of certification: Certified Professional Ergonomist (CPE) and Certified Ergonomist Associate (CEA).

Details about the educational requirements and ergonomics practice are found in the application form and the Rules for Certification on the

Apply for Certification page.

A Certified Professional Ergonomist (CPE) covers the entire range and depth of ergonomics knowledge to address complex problems and advanced ergonomics technologies and methods. A CPE is expected to provide leadership in professional matters, to apply and develop methodologies for analysing, designing, testing, and evaluating systems.

A Certified Ergonomics Associate (CEA) is an interventionist who applies a general breadth of knowledge to analysis and evaluation of currently operating work systems and whose scope of practice is limited to commonly accepted tools and techniques.

CPE

CEA

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

Undergraduate degree of no less than three years (NQF level 7)
Ergonomics Education: total 360 hrs in the prescribed knowledge areas

At least a five-year degree (NQF level 9, usually Masters degree)
Ergonomics Education: total of 660 hrs in the prescribed knowledge areas

PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE

Two years full-time in ERGONOMICS or an equivalent amount of part-time
Work samples to prove ergonomics competencies
Two-thirds of professional practice after completion of education
Can be shortened by 25% if mentored by a certified professional

Four years full-time in ERGONOMICS or an equivalent amount part-time
Work samples to prove ergonomics competencies
Two-thirds of professional practice after completion of education
Can be shortened by 25% if mentored by a certified professional

Applicants who have completed their education (general and ergonomics education), but do not yet have the required amount of professional practice, may apply as CEA in training or CPE in training and may apply for transitioning to CEA or CPE, respectively. The in-training designation is limited to three years for CEA and six years for CPE and may be suspended (on request) for the time an individual is registered full-time for a higher degree.

Last updated: June 2026