Ergonomics

What is Ergonomics?
The study of relationship between workers and their environment Ensuring a good fit between people, the work they do and the things they use Fitting the job to the worker, rather than the worker to the job

Ergonomic Factors to Consider

Consider all ways in which the equipment or system may be used and then ask:
Does it suit your body size? Does it also suit all other users? Can you see & hear all you need to easily? Do you understand all information presented? Do errors occur frequently, and is it easy to recover from them? Does the equipment or system cause discomfort if you use it for any length of time?

Ergonomic Factors to Consider cont.

Is it convenient to use? Is it easy to learn to use? Is it compatible with other systems in use? Could any of these aspects be improved? Do other users have similar reactions?

Identifying Problems

Causes of accident & near misses may be attributable to people being:

Unable to see important displays; Unable to reach controls; Unable to work in a comfortable position; Overloaded with too much information at one time; Inattentive because there is too little to do or too little variety

Identifying Problems
Make shift adaptations to machines e.g. lengthened levers, extra labels on witches, blocks of wood or cushions used to alter working positions can be an indication that the design of the equipment or job needs attention Medical and absence records may also reveal problems with particular jobs or tasks

Solutions
Risks can be reduced by changes to designs of workstations, tools and work organisation Simple solutions are often better Involve and consult the workforce Monitor remedial actions to ensure effectiveness

Example Solutions

Example Solutions

Example Solutions

Example Solutions