ERGONOMICS

Introduction

Introduction : What is ergonomics?

Ergo-what? Ergonomics is about fit : the fit between people, the things they do, the objects they use and the environment they work, travel and play in If good fit is achieved the stresses on people are reduced They are more comfortable, they can do thing more quickly and easily, and they make fewer mistakes So when we talk about fit, we dont just mean physical fit, we are concerned with psycholigical and other aspects too Ergonomics is often called Human Factors

Introduction : What is ergonomics?

What is ergonomics? Ergon (work) and nomos (laws) to denote the science of work Ergonomics aims to design appliances, technical systems and tasks to improve human safety, health, comfort and performance The definitiom of ergonomics approved by IEA :
Ergonomics (or human factors) is the scientific discipline concerned with the understanding of the interactions among humans and other elements of a system, and the profession that applies theory, principles, data and methods to design, in order to optimum human well-being and overall system performance

Introduction : What is ergonomics?

What is ergonomics? The focus of ergonomics is MAN Factors that play role in ergonomics :
body posture and movement :
Sitting, standing, lifting, pulling and pushing

environmental factors
Noise, vibration, illumination, climate, chemical substances

information and operation

Information gained visually or through senses, controls, relation between displays and control

work organization
Appropriate tasks, interesting jobs

Ergonomics draws its knowledge from various fields such as :

anthropometrics, biomechanics, physiology, psychology, toxicology, mechanical engineering, industrial design, information technology and industrial management

Areas of study in ergonomics

Area of study Physical aspects of the usermachine interface Examples Size, shape, colour, texture and methods of operation or displays and controls for cars, domestic appliances, industrial and commercial equipment, etc Understanding of instructions and other information; style of dialogue between computer and user Layout of offices, factories, domestic kitchens, public spaces, etc; detailed relationship between furniture and equipment, and between different equipment components

Cognitive aspects of the usermachine interface Workplace design and workspaces layout

Areas of study in ergonomics

Area of study Physical environment Examples Effects of climate, noise and vibration, illumination, and chemical/biological contaminants on human performance and health Organizational structure within group and its effects on satisfaction with the task, productivity and group membership Effects of shiftwork on performance; design of instructions, job aids and training schemes; selection of personnel against criteria of aptitude and personality

Psychological environment

Job design, selection and training

12 Principles of Ergonomics
1. Keep everything in easy reach 2. Work at proper height 3. Reduce excessive forces 4. Work in good postures 5. Reduce excessive repetition 6. Minimize fatigue 7. Minimize direct pressure 8. Provide adjustability and change posture 9. Provide clearance and access 10. Maintain a comfortable environment 11. Enhance clarity and understanding 12. Improve work organization

How to Measure Ergonomics