Ergonomics

Ergonomics is the scientific discipline concerned with designing according to the human needs, and the profession that applies theory, principles, data and methods to design in order to optimize human well-being and overall system performance. The field is also called human engineering, and human factors engineering.

Ergonomics principles need to be included in the design of a new workplace or a production process. But the likelihood is that companies seek the services of an ergonomist/human factors specialist after problems are experienced by the workforce. Even when a proposed ergonomics intervention to solve the problem makes sense, managers often have limited financial resources. They need to be able to persuade their financial controllers that investment in ergonomics interventions will be good for the company's profitability.

Ergonomics, also known as human factors, is the scientific discipline that seeks to understand and improve human interactions with products, equipment, environments and systems. Drawing upon human biology, psychology, engineering and design, ergonomics aims to develop and apply knowledge and techniques to optimise system performance, whilst protecting the health, safety and well-being of individuals involved. The attention of ergonomics extends across work, leisure and other aspects of our daily lives.

Ergonomics was another name for Human Factors. Today, Ergonomics commonly refers to designing work environments for maximizing safety and efficiency. Biometrics and Anthropometrics play a key role in this use of the word Ergonomics. Engineering Psychology often has a specialty dealing with Workplace or Occupational Ergonomics.

Ergonomic problems can be caused by both work-associated and non-work associated conditions can either individually, or by both interacting with each other. There are many ways to determine which is conditions of workplace can lead to Ergonomic Problems. The main risk for Ergonomic problems like Repetitive Strain Injury and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome are the frequent repetitive motion tasks, awkward posture, vibrations, forceful movements, stress at workplace, poor workplace setup.

Symptoms of Ergonomic Problems

Pain in wrists, forearms, elbows, neck, or back followed by discomfort ,Aching or tingling ,Dry, itchy, or sore eyes, Loss of color in affected regions, Blurred or double vision, Cramping.

Ergonomics looks at what kind of work you do, what tools you use and your whole job environment. The aim is to find the best fit between you and your job conditions. Examples of ergonomic changes to your work might include Adjusting the position of your computer keyboard to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome, Being sure that the height of your desk chair allows your feet to rest flat on floor.Learning the right way to lift heavy objects to prevent back injuries Using handle coatings or special gloves to suppress vibrations from power tools.

The application of ergonomics research can be seen in a diversity of life ranging from the design of simple hand tools and machines, through to complex systems such as air craft controls, power stations and space travel. Regardless of the applications, the basic understanding of the physiological and psychological needs of the human need to be a focus of the design process.

Today, changes in technology, changes in the way we perform work, and where and how we work are occurring at a rapid pace. Nowhere is the change more evident than in the use of computers. This new technology has brought on new demands for information as well as new and more sophisticated computing systems.