[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 52 (Thursday, April 15, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E680]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  SALUTE TO OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                     HON. LOUISE McINTOSH SLAUGHTER

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 15, 1999

  Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, in today's business world, maintaining a 
productive workforce is a vital function. Workplace injuries seriously 
hamper the efficiency of both the employer and the employee. Workers 
hurt on the job need assistance in returning to their positions and aid 
in preventing future injuries. Occupational therapists have long been 
in the forefront of providing these vital services to companies and 
their workers.
  April 1 marked the beginning of Occupational Therapy Month. I would 
like to take this opportunity to hail the men and women who serve as 
occupational therapists, including, I am proud to note, my own 
daughter.
  Occupational therapists are skilled in task analysis and ergonomics. 
They advise businesses on cost-effective ways to reduce the likelihood 
of worker disability. Occupational therapists work to prevent injury by 
modifying work areas, teaching techniques to alleviate physical 
discomfort, and developing equipment to simplify work. As the computer 
becomes more integrated in the daily lives of Americans, the 
occupational therapist can advise on how to set up a computer 
workstation that allows healthy computing. Using the right equipment 
and posture can prevent neck and shoulder pain, as well as damaging 
hand and arm conditions that can result from computer overuse. 
Occupational therapists improve the effectiveness and health of 
businesses and their employees.
  In recognition of the critical role these individuals play in 
supporting the American workforce, I salute the 60,000 members of the 
American Occupational Therapy Association during their special month of 
April.

                          ____________________