HU 151 Lecture 8 Ergonomics Fall 2012/13 HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

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

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

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

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

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

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

Resources International Ergonomics Association http://www.iea.cc/ UCLA Ergonomics http://www.ergonomics.ucla.edu/ Manual Tasks Risk Assessment Tool http://ergonomics.uq.edu.au/download/mantra2.pdf Cornell University Ergonomics Web http://ergo.human.cornell.edu/ HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

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

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

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

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

HU151_ Lect8_Ergonomics

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  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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