What Is Ergonomics?

Millions of workers suffer from work-related injuries, many resulting from the equipment that the workers use. Workers who perform physically strenuous jobs as well as those who work in offices are equally at risk for developing potentially permanent injuries. Ergonomics was developed in order to find ways to confront this issue.

Benefits

In ergonomics, the equipment that workers use is designed to reduce the amount of strain that the equipment places on workers' bodies. This increases productivity and job satisfaction.

Types

Ergonomics can be used in a variety of different industries. It can also be applied to many types of equipment, products and systems.

Source

The development of ergonomics came about after World War II. During this time, industries began to realize the impact that equipment design had on the workers who used them.

History

One of the first companies to apply ergonomics in the workplace was John Deere and Company. They began instituting ergonomics in 1979.

Considerations

Workers whose employers do not yet employ ergonomics should talk to their boss about acquiring ergonomic equipment if potential injury is a concern.

Resources

• Ergonomics.org
• International Ergonomics Association

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