The Importance of Ergonomics in the Workplace

Definition

According to the International Ergonomics Association (IEA), “Ergonomics is the scientific discipline concerned with the understanding of interactions among humans and other elements of a system, and the profession that applies theory, principles, data and methods to design to optimise human well-being and overall system performance.”

Specifically, ergonomics deals with the design of the work environment and tasks to match the capabilities and limitations of workers, ensuring safety, comfort, and productivity.

Domains of Ergonomics

Ergonomics includes three main areas:

1. Physical Ergonomics: Focuses on the physical aspects of human work. Specifically, it examines the anatomical, anthropometric, physiological, and biomechanical characteristics of people in relation to their physical activities. Classic examples include posture during work, handling and transporting loads, and repetitive movements. Ergonomic interventions often include modifications to the work environment or the use of assistive tools to reduce musculoskeletal and physiological strain.
2. Cognitive Ergonomics: Aims to improve the interaction between people and systems through the design of interfaces and processes that match human cognitive abilities and limitations, enhancing performance and reducing errors. Examples in this field include evaluating mental workload, analysing errors, studying decision-making, investigating human reliability, and human-machine interaction, including computers.
3. Organisational Ergonomics: Deals with the organisation of human work, adopting a sociotechnical approach. It intervenes in organizational structure and operational processes, considering communication, workload distribution, procedures, and informal practices. Its goal is to create a healthy work environment that promotes employee satisfaction, efficiency, and well-being. By improving workflow, developing collaborative information systems, establishing flexible schedules, adopting developmental-focused evaluation systems, ensuring quality assurance, and analyzing organizational culture, it contributes to the overall success of the company.

Nevertheless, human action cannot be strictly divided into physical, mental, social, etc. In practice, every observed human work includes all these components (physical, mental, emotional, social, cultural) to a greater or lesser extent. For this reason, ergonomic professionals or occupational health professionals must be adequately knowledgeable in all areas and apply a holistic approach to their interventions.

Benefits of Ergonomics in the Workplace

1. Increased Productivity: Ergonomically designed workspaces allow employees to work more efficiently, reducing physical and mental fatigue, resulting in increased productivity.
2. Improved Quality of Work: The application of ergonomic principles reduces errors and improves the quality of work, making tasks less demanding. Additionally, employees feel more valued when their health and safety are prioritized, reducing the likelihood of leaving their job.
3. Reduction of Work-Related Injuries: Ergonomics aims to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders, such as back pain and carpal tunnel syndrome, through the design of tasks and workspaces that promote natural postures and reduce repetitive strain.
4. Improved Employee Morale and Satisfaction: Ergonomics contributes to creating a better work environment, improving employee morale and satisfaction, leading to lower turnover rates.
5. Cost Savings: Reducing workplace injuries through ergonomics can lead to significant cost savings. For example, ergonomic interventions can reduce workers’ compensation costs and lost workdays significantly. What Does Ergonomic Intervention Include?

Successful implementation of ergonomic interventions requires a systematic approach:

1. Risk Assessment: Conducting a detailed assessment of the workplace to identify ergonomic risks through direct observation, employee feedback, and data analysis.
2. Designing Interventions: Developing strategies to address identified risks, such as redesigning workstations, introducing adjustable furniture, and using ergonomic tools.
3. Implementing Interventions: Carrying out the planned interventions, ensuring clear communication and training for employees on new practices and equipment.
4. Evaluation and Adjustment: Continuously monitoring the effectiveness of ergonomic interventions and making frequent adjustments based on feedback and observed results.

Conclusion

Ergonomics is essential for creating a safe, comfortable, and productive work environment. By adapting the work environment to human capabilities and limitations, organizations can reduce injuries, enhance productivity, and improve overall employee satisfaction. The application of ergonomic practices is an ongoing process that requires regular assessment and adjustment to meet the changing needs of employees and work conditions.

This blog was written by Michalis Arvanitidis

References:

1. Gangopadhyay S. Occupational Ergonomics: A Special Domain for the Benefit of Workers’ Health. Indian J Occup Environ Med. 2022 Jul-Sep;26(3):135-139.
2. Goggins RW, Spielholz P, Nothstein GL. Estimating the effectiveness of ergonomics interventions through case studies: implications for predictive cost-benefit analysis. J Safety Res. 2008;39(3):339-344.
3. Heidarimoghadam R, Mohammadfam I, Babamiri M, Soltanian AR, Khotanlou H, Sohrabi MS. What do the different ergonomic interventions accomplish in the workplace? A systematic review. Int J Occup Saf Ergon. 2022;28(1):600-624.
4. Lee S, DE Barros FC, DE Castro CSM, DE Oliveira Sato T. Effect of an ergonomic intervention involving workstation adjustments on musculoskeletal pain in office workers-a randomized controlled clinical trial. Ind Health. 2021 Mar 24;59(2):78-85.
5. Miles, A.K. and Perrewé, P.L. The Relationship Between Person–Environment Fit, Control, and Strain: The Role of Ergonomic Work Design and Training. Journal of Applied Social Psychology. 2011;41: 729-772.
6. Pereira M, Comans T, Sjøgaard G, et al. The impact of workplace ergonomics and neck-specific exercise versus ergonomics and health promotion interventions on office worker productivity: A cluster-randomized trial. Scand J Work Environ Health. 2019;45(1):42-52.
7. Sultan-Taïeb H, Parent-Lamarche A, Gaillard A, Stock S, Nicolakakis N, Hong QN, Vezina M, Coulibaly Y, Vézina N, Berthelette D. Economic evaluations of ergonomic interventions preventing work-related musculoskeletal disorders: a systematic review of organizational-level interventions. BMC Public Health. 2017 Dec 8;17(1):935.
8. van Eerd D, Cole D, Irvin E, et al. Process and implementation of participatory ergonomic interventions: a systematic review. Ergonomics. 2010;53(10):1153-1166.
9. Wikipedia – Ergonomics
10. Physiopedia – Ergonomics
11. Ergonomics – ΕΛΙΝΥΑΕ
12. Ergonomics – IEA