The primary goal of ergonomics is to reduce your exposure to work hazards.
Ergonomics is a field focused on designing and arranging workplaces, systems, and products so that they fit the people who use them. Its central aim is to optimize human well-being and overall system performance. As stated in the reference, the goal is specifically to reduce your exposure to work hazards.
Understanding Work Hazards in Ergonomics
A key part of achieving the goal of ergonomics is understanding what constitutes a hazard in the workplace. According to the reference, a hazard is defined as a physical factor within your work environment that can harm your body. These physical factors can include a wide range of elements that place stress or strain on the body.
Examples of physical work hazards include:
- Awkward Postures: Positions that twist the body or hold joints in uncomfortable ranges of motion (e.g., reaching overhead, kneeling for extended periods, bending your wrist while typing).
- Repetitive Motions: Performing the same motion over and over without sufficient rest (e.g., typing, scanning items, assembling small parts).
- Forceful Exertions: Using excessive force to lift, push, pull, or grip objects (e.g., moving heavy boxes, tightly gripping tools).
- Vibration: Exposure to vibrating tools or surfaces (e.g., using power tools, operating heavy machinery).
- Contact Stress: Pressure points on the body from hard or sharp objects (e.g., resting wrists on a sharp desk edge, kneeling on a hard floor).
- Temperature Extremes: Working in environments that are too hot or too cold.
How Ergonomics Works to Reduce Hazards
Achieving the goal of reducing exposure to these physical hazards involves assessing the work environment and implementing changes. This can include:
- Workstation Design: Adjusting desk height, monitor position, chair features, and keyboard/mouse placement to promote neutral postures.
- Tool Design: Selecting tools that fit the hand well, require less force, or reduce vibration.
- Task Redesign: Breaking up repetitive tasks, providing rest breaks, or automating certain processes.
- Equipment Modification: Using carts or lift assists to reduce manual handling, or providing padding to reduce contact stress.
- Training: Educating workers on proper lifting techniques, posture, and the importance of reporting discomfort early.
By systematically identifying these hazards and implementing ergonomic solutions, the workplace becomes safer, more comfortable, and more efficient. This reduction in exposure directly contributes to preventing work-related musculoskeletal disorders and other injuries caused by physical stress.
