1. HU 151 Lecture 8
Ergonomics
Fall 2012/13
HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

2. Outline Definition and Domains Benefits Ergonomic Risk Factors
Physical
Cognitive
Organizational
Benefits
Ergonomic Risk Factors
Ergonomic Controls
HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

3. It is . . . fitting the work to the worker
Ergonomics?
It is fitting the work to the worker
Ergon = Greek for “work”
Nomos = Greek for “laws of”
The Study of Work
Applies both on and off the job
HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

4. Definition
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
HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

5. Domains of Ergonomics
The International Ergonomics Association (IEA) divides ergonomics broadly into three domains:
Physical
Cognitive
Organizational
HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

6. focus
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,
lifting,
work related musculoskeletal disorders,
workplace layout.
HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

7. 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 and Human-Computer Interaction design.
HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

8. Resources International Ergonomics Association http://www.iea.cc/
UCLA Ergonomics
Manual Tasks Risk Assessment Tool
Cornell University Ergonomics Web
HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

9. 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.
HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

10. Benefits of Ergonomics
Decreased injury risk
Increased productivity
Decreased mistakes/rework
Increased efficiency
Decreased lost work days
Decreased turnover
Improved morale
HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

11. Ergonomic Risk Factors
Repetition
Awkward posture
Forceful exertion
Static posture
Mechanical contact
Stress
Temperature
Vibration
HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

12. Ergonomic Controls Engineering Administrative Work Practices
Modify the tool or work area design
Administrative
Don’t do one thing too long
Work Practices
Use the right tool
HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

13. HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

14. Computer Workstation (Cornell University)
Use a good chair with a dynamic chair back and sit back in this
Top of monitor casing 2-3" (5-8 cm) above eye level 
No glare on screen, use an optical glass anti-glare filter where needed
Sit at arms length from monitor
Feet on floor or stable footrest 
Use a document holder, preferably in-line with the computer screen
Wrists flat and straight in relation to forearms to use keyboard/mouse/input device
Arms and elbows relaxed close to body 
Center monitor and keyboard in front of you 
Use a negative tilt keyboard tray  with an upper mouse platform or downward tilt able platform adjacent to keyboard
Use a stable work surface and stable (no bounce) keyboard tray
Take frequent short breaks (microbreaks)
            12 tips for an Ergonomic
Computer Workstation
(Cornell University)
HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

15. Tilt the work surface instead of the wrist.
Stand with weight evenly distributed between feet. When standing for long periods of time, rest one foot on a sturdy object above floor height and switch legs periodically
HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

16. Keep elbows close to the body.
Reduce the need for outstretched arms. Use a higher work surface.
HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

17. Avoid bending over your work.
Avoid overhead work. Use a ladder.
HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

18. Bend the tool, not the wrist.
Use tools that distribute pressure evenly across the palm.
HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

19. Better . . Moderate to High Hand - Arm Vibration
Use low vibration tools if available
Maintain tools
Use anti-vibration gloves or tool wraps
Take frequent pauses
Stretch your hands and arms
HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

20. Lifting Size up the load If too heavy for one person, get help!
Lift together or use mechanical assistance
HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

21. ?
HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics