HMGTC-6

ERGONOMICS
Randy A. Puyong, MBA
Instructor
Chapter 3: Human Engineering
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this chapter, the student will be able to:
1. Define what is Human Engineering
2. Describe the relationship of Human Engineering in
Management
3. Identify the objectives and effects of ergonomics
4. Discuss the importance of ergonomics
 Human Engineering

Human-factors engineering, also called ergonomics or human engineering, is a

science that deals with the application of physical and psychological characteristics
knowledge to the design of human devices and systems.
Human factors engineering are the science of individuals at work.
What is Human Engineering in Management?

Human Engineering focuses on human beings and

their relationship with workplace goods, equipment
and environments. Human Engineering tries to
improve the things people use and the atmosphere
in which they use things to better match peoples
skills, constraints and needs.
Effects of an Ergonomics Program

The aims of an ergonomics program are to

protect and guard against liability for workers
and properties. Although it is unwise to use
economic variables and convenience issues to
influence decisions about the management of
the ergonomics program, recognizing the
possible bottom line consequences of specific
behavior or circumstances is important.
The direct benefits of an ergonomics program are:

 Reduce occupational illness and injury

 Reduced number of lost workdays
 Reduced number of workers compensation insurance
 Reduced premium payments for workers compensation
insurance
 Reduced number of complaints of discomfort
 Reduced instances of eyestrain
 Reduced incidents of localized pain
 The indirect benefits of an ergonomics program include:
• Effects on productivity:
• Projects are completed.
• Client deadlines do not lapse.
• Client relations stay positive.
• Workers are more productive
• Effects on cost:
• The cost of creating a piece of work does not grow because the
previous worker does not need to be replaced and a new one
qualified.
• Insurance costs do not go up.
• Regulatory liability is reduced.
Objectives of Human Engineering

Human engineering (ergonomics) has two broader

objectives:
1. Improve the efficacy and quality of the tasks (work)
carried out in order to increase the comfort of usage,
minimize errors and increase productivity.
2. To strengthen those beneficial human qualities,
including decreased stress and exhaustion in terms of
safety and increased quality of life.
 Importance of ergonomics

Its goal is to enhance the protection, comfort and productivity of a

product or an environment, such as an office. To decide the correct size,
form and shape of a product to make it easier for people to use,
Ergonomics uses anthropometric data.

People differ in terms of:

• Body size
• Body shape
• Strength
• Mobility
People differ in terms of:
• Sensory sensitivity
• Mental ability
• Experience
• Training
• Culture
• Emotions
In the workplace: Ergonomics seeks to build healthy, comfortable and efficient
workspaces by integrating human capabilities and disabilities into the design of a
workspace, including the body size, power, ability, speed, sensory skills, (vision,
hearing), and even attitudes of the person.

In the greater population: This will include equipment, services and structure
designed to meet the rising needs of the elderly population, including public
transit, building facilities and living spaces.