Ergonomics

Izak Struthers
What Is It?
Ergonomics is the science of fixing environments, tasks, or procedures to best fit
the worker.
Physical Ergonomics
There are two main types of ergonomics. The first being physical ergonomics and the second being
mental or “cognitive” ergonomics. Physical ergonomics focuses on injury prevention caused by incorrect
postures, physical tasks, and repetitive movements. An example of this is proper lifting techniques or good
posture.
Posture
A good posture is one that places the least amount
of stress on your muscles and joints. This may also
be referred to as a neutral posture. This includes
keeping the natural S-curve in your back, whether
you’re sitting or standing.Things to look out for are
Awkward postures, which involve bending, twisting,
working with your hands above your head, or
working with your elbows above your shoulders. As
well as, static postures which is when you hold the
same posture or position for an extended period of
time.
Lifting
Lifting is a something we all do regularly. It is also
an activity that be especially dangerous when done
wrong. Ergonomics of lifting emphases lifting with
the best possible form to reduce risk of injury as
much as possible. For example, When lifting a load
of any size, you should keep your head up and your
back straight and bend at your hips. This is just one
of many tips to create healthier lifting habits
Cognitive Ergonomics
Cognitive ergonomics is concerned with
performance quality. It looks into how we process
information and interact with data. Mental
workload, decision-making, reliability, work stress,
all have to do with cognitive ergonomics. The goal
being the most efficient and comfortable work
environment.
Organizational Ergonomics
Organizational ergonomics focuses on optimizing
workplace systems and organizing structures,
policies and other potentially slow processes in
order to maximize efficiency. The goal of
organizational ergonomics is a a fully harmonized
work system and the efficiency that comes with it
Safety
Ergonomics can help you stay safe by teaching you
to identify body movements or positions that may
cause you discomfort and potentially lead to
injuries. Once you can identify what's causing you
discomfort, changes can be made accordingly to
improve ergonomics and increase safety.
Benefits
Some of the many benefits of ergonomics are

● Lower costs and higher productivity

● Better product quality
● Improved employee engagement
● Better safety culture
Injuries
While the benefits of ergonomics are great, however
the risks of ignoring ergonomics are even greater.
Repetitive and forceful manual tasks without time to
recover can lead to loss of strength and sensation in
the thumbs, index, or middle or half of the ring
fingers. "white fingers" Raynaud's Syndrome, is a
disease of the hands in which the blood vessels in
the fingers collapse due to repeated exposure to
vibration. The fact that these are only some of the
more mild injuries that can be caused from ignoring
physical ergonomics should be proof enough of how
important it is.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ergonomics are incredibly important in many aspects of our lives. Whether it concerns
physical, mental, or even organizational health, ergonomics cannot be ignored.
Sources
https://ergo-plus.com/ergonomics-definition-domains-applications/

https://www.publichealthnotes.com/ergonomics-and-its-10-principles/

https://www.coeh.berkeley.edu/post/the-difference-between-physical-ergonomics-
cognitive-ergonomics-and-macroergonomics

Careersafe