AD16WM Workspace Management Lecturer: Daniel Wong MBA, MSc, BBus

Lecture title: Ergonomics. Lecture number 5 Lecture title: Ergonomics.

In this session… In this session we will consider, ‘how a workplace is designed to fit to the people in it’.

Learning outcomes At the end of this session you should be able to: The learning outcomes of this session 1. Analyse knowledge and information management on space allocation in offices and buildings. 3. Develop a strategy for space allocation in offices and buildings.

What does a space plan look like?

Definition of Ergonomics The science of fitting worksites to people. It focuses on designing workstations, tools and tasks with an eye toward safety, efficiency and comfort. Effective ergonomic design promotes comfort, reduces workplace injuries and increases job satisfaction and productivity.

Ergonomic Factors Floor Plan Colour Lighting Acoustics Ventilation Furniture & Equipment

Factor empty space in front of filing cabinets to fully extend drawers, plus at least 18 additional inches if the drawers will be accessed by a person standing in front of them. Allow at least 36 inches for walkway

Colour Colours should be chosen based on lighting conditions and temperature fluctuations.

Lighting Poor lighting conditions in offices, can cause eyestrain, eye irritation, blurred vision, headaches or even stiff necks and aches in the shoulders, as workers adjust work areas to avoid glare. Lamps & anti-glare screens should be used to control lighting and glare.

Acoustics The scientific study of sound, especially of its generation, transmission, and reception which includes the qualities or properties of an enclosed space in transmitting sound. Noise that is offensive to the office professional should be controlled as it diminishes efficiency and decreases productivity (Fulton-Calkins & Hanks, 2004) as it distorts communication, affects concentration, and increases irritability and fatigue.

The most common sources of irritating noise within an office are conversations, telephones and other office equipment; such as computers, air-conditioned units, fax machines and lighting fixtures. To control noise: Purchase silent equipment or install rubber pads or isolation damping devices under noisy equipment (to reduce vibrations and transmission to furniture and floors) Place equipment in a separate room/enclosure or further away from the general area of work. Install acoustical panels, carpeting, draperies and acoustical ceilings. Provide conference rooms for small to large group meetings.

Ventilation A comfortable environment should be provided with respect to humidity and temperature as extremes in humidification levels can influence how comfortable a worker will be. High humidity makes people wet, clammy and irritable. Low humidity dries out the nasal and respiratory passages.

Furniture & Equipment Office furnishings should have adjustable components that enable the user to modify the workstation to accommodate different physical dimensions and the requirements of the job. Should eliminate static or awkward posture, repetitive motion, poor access or inadequate clearance and excessive reach, displays that are difficult to read and understand, and controls that are confusing to operate or require too much force.

orkstation Principl Workstation Principles 3 1 3 3 1 1 3 2 1 1 2 2 1 2 VIEWING DISTANCE 13-30 inches DISPLAY ANGLE 5°-20° 1 3 3 1 orkstation Principl 1 3 BACK SUPPORT 2 1 1 KEYBOARD SLOPE 5°-25° The angle between your torso and legs should be greater than 90° 2 2 1 2

Overview To ensure the continuous development and productivity of companies, employers must ensure the comfort and health of their employees by adopting an ergonomic approach to the design of workspaces.

Summary The cost of corporate property is the second highest corporate expense after payroll. Understanding organisations and their space requirements can significantly reduce costs and increase productivity. What role should an FM play in a design team?

Next session In next week’s lecture we will consider and discuss: CSR, Sustainability, Knowledge and Information Management