Ergonomics is a scientific approach which puts human needs and capabilities at the centre of designing complex technological systems, workplaces and work organisation. It is about fitting the job to the worker. The aim is to ensure that humans and technology work in harmony, with the equipment and tasks aligned to human characteristics and capabilities.
Ergonomics can significantly improve safety and health in the workplace and optimise efficiency and productivity, by:
- making equipment and systems easier to use with fewer errors in operation — particularly important in highly pressured and safety-critical operations;
- changing tasks and work organisation to take account of human needs such as rest breaks and sensible shift patterns;
- improving posture and easing the load on the body, thus reducing instances of over-use injuries and work-related upper limb disorders (WRULDs).
- making interpretation and use of handbooks, signs and displays easier and less error-prone;
- designing training to cover all main aspects of the job and to take account of human learning requirements;
- designing working environments, including lighting and heating, to suit operators and the tasks performed;
- designing workplaces and work equipment to suit the user; and
- designing personal protective equipment (PPE) for work and hostile environments.