Ergonomics

What is ergonomics? Most people have heard of ergonomics and think it is something to do with seating or with the design of car controls and instruments. It is….but it is much more!

Ergonomics is the application of scientific information concerning humans to the design of objects, systems and environment for human use.

Ergonomics incorporates elements from many subjects including anatomy, physiology, psychology and design. Ergonomists apply their diverse knowledge to ensure that products and environments are comfortable, safe and efficient for people to use.

What is ‘ergonomic design’? Ergonomic design is a way of considering design options to ensure that people’s capabilities and limitations are taken into account. This helps to ensure that the product is for for use by the target users.

What is in it for you and your staff?

Ergonomics has a wide application to everyday domestic situations, but there are even more significant implications for efficiency, productivity, safety and health in work settings. For example:

• Designing equipment and systems including computers so that they are easier to use and less likely to lead to errors in operation – particularly important in high stress and safety critical operations such as control rooms.
• Designing equipment and work arrangements to improve working posture and ease the load on the body, thus reducing instances of Repetitive Strain Injury/Work Related Upper Limb Disorder
• Design of training arrangements to cover all significant aspects of the job concerned and to take account of human learning requirements.
• Designing working environments, including lighting and heating, to suit the needs of the users and the tasks performed. Where necessary, design of personal protective equipment for work and hostile environments.

For any further information click on the nurse in the top right corner and submit any questions or queries, or call us on the telephone number supplied throughout the site.