The two primary objectives of the ergonomics process are to enhance performance and reduce fatigue. The ergonomics process is a multi-step method to evaluate work, study how the body responds to these work demands and make work design to improve work areas to best meet these two objectives.
Work design area or equipment can have significant effects on worker fatigue, safety and worker performance. In addition, with the expansion of machine technology, new and different equipment is continually introduced to the work place each year. This expansion of technology in the workplace can both ameliorate workspace problems, as well as, create them. For a work area to flow efficiently and productively, both the equipment and the people must be operating smoothly. Any obstacle, difficult reach, congestion or confusion can impair work output and may, at times, compromise worker safety.
In work design or modification, we need to answer the questions:
- Does the person fit (body size) in a work place?
- If one worker fits in a workplace, do all workers fit in a workplace.
- If all workers fit in a work place, are some individuals more likely to experience fatigue, injury or diminished work performance due to poor fit into a workplace?
- Does the work design and equipment have any adverse effects on the workers safety and productivity?
It is essential to be aware of the potential effects, both positive and adverse, that work design issues can have on both worker performance and fatigue. When designing or modifying equipment or a work area, the following factors need to be considered:
- Safe clearances or heights, such as for doorways or walkways.
- Safe reach distances, such as for safety cords or equipment controls.
- Code requirements, such as for reaches or work heights.
- Safety features including machine guards and protective shields.
- Equipment control configuration or devices.
- Work station or flow of the work designs
- Handicap access adaptations with compliance with ADA laws.
Work areas and equipment are designed and built based on human capabilities and capacities. Obviously, there are some limitations to work design, as the worker population, most like is quite variable in size, shape and weight. In addition, there is no such thing as the “average “person. That is why the principles of anthropometry have become so important.
