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6. Introduction to Ergonomics

6. Introduction to Ergonomics. Definition. Branch of science that applies what is known about human behavior, mental processes, and anatomy and physiology to the design, development, and evaluation of work methods, environments, technologies, and systems

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6. Introduction to Ergonomics

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  1. 6. Introduction to Ergonomics

  2. Definition • Branch of science that applies what is known about human behavior, mental processes, and anatomy and physiology to the design, development, and evaluation of work methods, environments, technologies, and systems • Discipline that studies human capabilities and performance capacities and applies this information in designing consumer products, tools, and equipment

  3. Common Definitions “Ergonomics is essentially fitting the workplace to the worker. The better the fit, the higher the level of safety and worker efficiency.” Fitting the Task to the Human ~ Grandjean 1990 “ Ergonomics removes barriers to quality, productivity and human performance by fitting products, tasks, and environments to people.” ErgoWeb.com

  4. Ergonomics • Greek words: • “Ergon” : work • “Nomos” : principle or laws Ergonomics = The Science of Work • In the literature: • in 1840s by Wojciech Jastrzebowski (a Polish educator and scientist) • In 1949 by K.F.H. Murrel (a British scientist) • Other terms: • Human Factors, Human Engineering, Engineering Psychology

  5. ERGONOMICS Industrial engineering Bioengineering System engineering Safety engineering Military engineering Computer-aided design Anatomy Orthopedics Physiology Medicine Psychology Sociology Anthropometri Biomechanics Work Physiology Industrial Hygiene Management Labor relations HUMAN FACTORS Origins, developments, and applications Kroemer et al. (2001) p.7

  6. 1. Identify potential problems (mismatches) 2. Evaluate and prioritize problems 3. Improve (redesign) jobs and tasks The Ergonomics Process

  7. Comprehensive Ergonomics Strategy • Train engineers on ergonomic practices and principals • Perform ergonomic evaluations of work tasks and work environments • Implement ergonomic interventions • Educate employees on ergonomics • Establish medical control-treat/prevent injuries and illnesses early

  8. Rationale for Ergonomics • Realization that not all problems are the result of human error. • Fit the task to the person • Recognize the need to design to accommodate a large number of users • Ergonomics is not just applying checklists or guidelines. It’s a design process. • Ergonomics is more than just common sense. • Who can tell me how high the letters on a sign need to be for a person driving 75 mph to see them at a distance of 200 yards? • Who can tell me the amount of muscle exertion is required to trim a fish fillet?

  9. Ergonomics in Design of Systems Task Human HFE Environment

  10. Goal of Ergonomics • Minimize the mis-match between human capabilities and task requirements • What is the optimal scenario? Blue = human capabilities gray = job demands • Objectives of HF • Improve human performance • Improve Safety • Reduce the need for training • Improve user satisfaction

  11. Components of Ergonomics Biomechanics Psychology IE Work Methods Plant Layout Work Flow Anthropometry Physiology Ergonomics Methods Analysis Techniques Workplace Design Techniques Machine and Equipment Design Tool Design Techniques Operator Assignments and Job Design

  12. Division of the Discipline • Physical Ergonomics (work place layout and design) • Cognitive Ergonomics (cognitive and psychological issues)

  13. History • Can be traced back to the late 1800s/early 1900s and Frank and Lillian Gilbreth—motion and time studies, investigated performance, fatigue, workstation design, tool design • Formal birth in WWII: significant number of pilot accidents due to human error • 1950s— regulations began to be developed in USA • 1957—first professional society was created (HFES) • Number of tragedies in semi-recent years: 3-mile Island, Chernobyl, dramatic increase in the number of reported occupational injuries illnesses, and deaths • OSHA is developed • Computer age

  14. Increased Productivity improved work methods increased efficiency better tools less stress and fatigue fewer errors Money decreased medical costs increased productivity decreased workman’s compensation costs fewer lost work day cases (light duty days) Why Ergonomics? • Quality of Work Life • fewer injuries • less fatigue and stress • improved employee morale

  15. Current Topics • Occupational Injuries and Illnesses • CTDs, slips/trips/falls, deaths, … • Sources of Operator Discomfort/Fatigue • Design for Special Populations • HCI • Individual Differences • User-centered Design • Production Ergonomics • Human Error • Others

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