What is ergonomics

To achieve best practice design, Ergonomists use the data and techniques of several disciplines:. Why is Ergonomics important? How does Ergonomics work? To achieve best practice design, Ergonomists use the data and techniques of several disciplines: 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.

Poor worksite design leads to fatigued, frustrated and hurting workers. This rarely leads to the most productive worker. More likely, it leads to a painful and costly injury, lower productivity and poor product quality. Recommended Ergonomic Assessment Tools Applying a scientific, evidence-based approach to your ergonomics process is important.

Ergonomics Training Tutorial Learn how to improve ergonomics knowledge and skills development throughout your organization. What does an ergonomics improvement process look like?

How do you choose the right chair, keyboard, mouse and other office equipment? ErgoPlus Platform: Software to Help You Master Ergonomics Get the tools and training you need to assess risk, plan improvements, measure progress, and scale solutions across one worksite or a hundred.

Ergonomics is the study of people at work that aims to reduce the physical stress and resulting injuries associated with working, such as overuse injuries, poor posture and more serious muskuloskeletal disorders. Ergonomics aims to reduce such injuries by designing work spaces, tools, tasks and equipment that help maintain the physical health of workers. The aim of ergonomics ranges from providing a safe work environment to the employees to increasing their competence and comfort.

It can also improve work efficiency. Within a particular workplace, domains of specialization demonstrate deeper competencies in ergonomics, which are elaborated below:. Ergonomics intends to make sure that human requirements for safe and efficient working are met in the design of organizational systems.

Getting a workplace evaluation or training in ergonomic practices can significantly reduce the chances of occupational injuries. Subscribe to the Safeopedia newsletter to stay on top of current industry trends and up-to-date know-how from subject matter authorities. Our comprehensive online resources are dedicated to safety professionals and decision makers like you. By: Daniel Clark. First Known Use of ergonomics , in the meaning defined at sense 1. Learn More About ergonomics.

Time Traveler for ergonomics The first known use of ergonomics was in See more words from the same year. Style: MLA. Medical Definition of ergonomics. Get Word of the Day daily email! Test Your Vocabulary. Test your vocabulary with our question quiz!