Definition: Ergonomics Is The Science of Work. Ergonomics Derives From
Definition: Ergonomics Is The Science of Work. Ergonomics Derives From
Definition: Ergonomics Is The Science of Work. Ergonomics Derives From
Ergonomics derives from two Greek words: ergon, meaning work, and nomoi, meaning natural laws.
Combined they create a word that means the science of work and a person’s relationship to that work.
In application ergonomics is a discipline focused on making products and tasks comfortable and
efficient for the user.
Ergonomics is sometimes defined as the science of fitting the work to the user instead of forcing the
user to fit the work. However this is more a primary ergonomic principle rather than a definition.
Also Known As: Human Factors, Human Engineering, Human Factors Engineering
Examples: Using proper posture and body mechanics, good placement of computer equipment,
comfortable handles and grips as well as efficient layout of kitchen appliances are all aspects of
ergonomics.
Ergonomics is the science of designing the job, equipment, and workplace to fit the worker.
Proper ergonomic design is necessary to prevent repetitive strain injuries, which can develop
over time and can lead to long-term disability.[1]
The International Ergonomics Association defines ergonomics as follows.[2]
Ergonomics (or human factors) is the scientific discipline concerned with the understanding of
interactions among humans and other elements of a system, and the profession that applies theory,
principles, data and methods to design in order to optimize human well-being and overall system
performance.
Ergonomics is employed to fulfill the two goals of health and productivity. It is relevant in the
design of such things as safe furniture and easy-to-use interfaces to machines.
Contents
[hide]
• 1 Overview
○ 1.1 Domains
• 2 History and etymology
• 3 Applications
○ 3.1 Design of ergonomics experiments
○ 3.2 Ergonomics in the workplace
• 4 Fields of ergonomics
○ 4.1 Engineering psychology
○ 4.2 Macroergonomics
○ 4.3 Seating ergonomics
• 5 Organizations
• 6 See also
• 7 References
• 8 Further reading
• 9 Related software
• 10 External links
[edit] Overview
Ergonomics is concerned with the ‘fit’ between people and their work. It takes account of the
worker's capabilities and limitations in seeking to ensure that tasks, equipment, information and
the environment suit each worker.
To assess the fit between a person and his work, ergonomists consider the job being done and the
demands on the worker; the equipment used (its size, shape, and how appropriate it is for the
task), and the information used (how it is presented, accessed, and changed). Ergonomics draws
on many disciplines in its study of humans and their environments, including anthropometry,
biomechanics, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, industrial design, kinesiology,
physiology and psychology.
Typically, an ergonomist will have a BA or BS in Psychology, Industrial/Mechanical
Engineering or Health Sciences, and usually an MA, MS or PhD in a related discipline. Many
universities offer Master of Science degrees in Ergonomics, while some offer Master of
Ergonomics or Master of Human Factors degrees. In the 2000s, occupational therapists have
been moving into the field of ergonomics and the field has been heralded as one of the top ten
emerging practice areas.[3]
[edit] Domains
The International Ergonomics Association (IEA) divides ergonomics broadly into three domains:
• Physical ergonomics: is concerned with human anatomical, and some of the
anthropometric, physiological and biomechanical characteristics as they
relate to physical activity. (Relevant topics include working postures,
materials handling, repetitive movements, work related musculoskeletal
disorders, workplace layout, safety and health.)
• Cognitive ergonomics: is concerned with mental processes, such as
perception, memory, reasoning, and motor response, as they affect
interactions among humans and other elements of a system. (Relevant topics
include mental workload, decision-making, skilled performance, human-
computer interaction, human reliability, work stress and training as these
may relate to human-system design.)
• Organizational ergonomics: is concerned with the optimization of socio
technical systems, including their organizational structures, policies, and
processes.(Relevant topics include communication, crew resource
management, work design, design of working times, teamwork, participatory
design, community ergonomics, cooperative work, new work programs,
virtual organizations, telework, and quality management.