COMPUTER

ERGONOMICS
DEFINITION AND IMPORTANCE OF
ERGONOMICS.
WHAT IS ERGONOMICS?

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 DEFINITION

□ Ergonomics is the process of designing or arranging

workplaces, products and systems so that they fit the
people who use them.

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 DEFINITION

□ Most people have heard of ergonomics and think it is

something to do with seating or with the design of car
controls and instruments – and it is… but it is so much
more. Ergonomics applies to the design of anything that
involves people – workspaces, sports and leisure, health
and safety.

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 IMPORTANCE

□ Ergonomics aims to improve workspaces and environments

to minimise risk of injury or harm. So as technologies
change, so too does the need to ensure that the tools we
access for work, rest and play are designed for our body’s
requirements.

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 How does Ergonomics work?

□ Ergonomics is a relatively new branch of science but relies

on research carried out in many other older, established
scientific areas, such as engineering, physiology and
psychology.

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 How does Ergonomics work?

□ Anthropometry: body sizes, shapes; populations and variations

□ Biomechanics: muscles, levers, forces, strength
□ Environmental physics: noise, light, heat, cold, radiation,
vibration body systems: hearing, vision, sensations
□ Applied psychology: skill, learning, errors, differences
□ Social psychology: groups, communication, learning,
behaviours.

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 COMPUTER
ERGONOMICS
□ Computer ergonomics refers to the design and arrangement of
computer workstations to optimize human-computer interaction,
emphasizing the well-being and efficiency of individuals. It
involves creating a workspace that minimizes discomfort and
maximizes productivity by considering the physical and
cognitive aspects of the user.

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 Importance

Health Preservation
- Proper ergonomics helps
prevent musculoskeletal
disorders, eye strain, and
other physical ailments
associated with prolonged
computer use.

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 Importance

Productivity Enhancement: A
well-designed ergonomic setup
can contribute to increased
focus, reduced fatigue, and
overall improved work
performance.

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 RESEARCH

Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)

A 2018 study published in the journal Applied Ergonomics found that
poor ergonomics is a major risk factor for MSDs, which are the leading
cause of work-related disability worldwide. MSDs can cause pain,
stiffness, and limitations in movement, which can significantly impact
quality of life and lead to early retirement.

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 RESEARCH

Cardiovascular Disease (CVD)

A 2017 study published in the journal Heart found that prolonged sitting
is associated with an increased risk of CVD, which is the leading cause
of death globally. CVD can lead to heart attack, stroke, and other serious
health problems, ultimately reducing lifespan.

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 RESEARCH

Obesity and Diabetes

A 2016 study published in the journal Obesity found that sedentary
lifestyles, which are often associated with poor ergonomics, are a major
risk factor for obesity and diabetes. Obesity and diabetes are major risk
factors for other chronic diseases, such as CVD, which can shorten
lifespan.

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 RESEARCH

Mental Health
A 2019 study published in the journal BMC Public Health found that
poor work-related ergonomics is associated with an increased risk of
depression and anxiety. Mental health problems can have a significant
impact on physical health and overall well-being, potentially leading to
a shorter lifespan.

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 GENERALIZATION

Ergonomics is a multidisciplinary field that focuses on designing

systems, products, and environments to optimize the interaction
between humans and their surroundings. The overarching goal of
ergonomics is to enhance well-being, efficiency, and safety by
considering human capabilities, limitations, and preferences.

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