Human Factors and Ergonomics



OAKLAND UNIVERSITYHuman Factors and ErgonomicsThe Evolution of HFENatasha Hooten11/27/2018AbstractErgonomics is the study of work. Human factors and ergonomics have evolved over the years. Ergonomics combines physiology, biomechanics, anthropometry, psychology, kinesiology, and industrial hygiene. The ergonomics design process must address the challenges of this area while aiming to be inclusive. Key Words: Human factors, ergonomics, musculoskeletal disorders, Taylorism, ergonomic designIntroduction to Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE)A worker's body should not be forced to fit the job, the job should fit the worker. When a worker is forced to fit the job, it can and has caused problems for the workers. The most prevalent issues are known as musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) (Asher, Tacconelli, & Cleary, 2018, p. 356). The development of ergonomics has helped mitigate this problem. Ergonomics integrates biomechanics, psychology, anthropometry, physiology, industrial hygiene and kinesiology (Asher et al., 2018, p. 356). With the incorporation of these studies, best practice ergonomic programs and tools have been created (Asher et al., 2018, p. 356).History of Human Factors and ErgonomicsHuman factors and ergonomics (HFE) dates back as far back as the Neolithic period. HFE began with workers using tools (Asher et al., 2018, p. 358). It wasn't until World War II that HFE became a major factor in the United States. The major defining moment for HFE was the scientific study of workers, also known as Taylorism (Asher, et al., 2018, p. 360). Taylorism included time and motion studies, meticulous preplanning, specific job and task descriptions, and stringent distribution of labor. The modern era for HFE began in the 1960s. The development of the MANPRINT Program was a turning point for ergonomics in the United States. Currently, the ergonomics discipline is accepted in a wide range of industries and worldwide for when determining policies for maintaining health and safety (Asher et al., 2018, p. 362). HFE and TodayEven though HFE originated within the military in the United States, it has expanded throughout all workplaces. A study was conducted that found HFE approaches to patient safety that addressed five different domains (Carayon, Xie, & Kianfar, 2014). The study found that HFE methods for patient safety can in fact be used in many domains (Carayon et al., 2018). This shows that many companies are taking HFE seriously and are trying to minimize risk factors. According to Roth (2011), OSHA even wants a separate recording column for documenting Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). In order to effectively reduce MSDs using an ergonomics management system, key factors must be incorporated including: training, problem identifying, worker involvement, management support, early reporting of symptoms, implementing of solutions, and progress evaluation (Asher et al., 2018, p. 356).HFE and TechnologyTechnological advances have significantly improved working conditions for workers over the years. This is partly because the global society needs are changing from agricultural to more service economies which means equipment needs are changing as well (Asher et al., 2018, p. 365). These technological advancements have helped lower ergonomic risks in the workplace (Asher et al., 2018, p. 366). However, there is no reward without. The increased use of tablets, cell phones, and touch screens (for work and leisure) are posing new threats to society. However, there is limited research on the long term effects of using these products since they haven't been around long enough to determine long term effects (Asher et al., 2018, p. 365). ConclusionsErgonomics is vital in the workplace and workers around the world deserve accommodations. HFE today has made significant advancements and will continue to overcome challenges. Continuous improvements in HFE will address the changing demographics as well as the new risks created through advancements to ensure workers are provided maximum protection. ReferencesAsher, M., Tacconelli, G., & Cleary, E. (2018). Evolution of Human Factors and Ergonomics in Safety Engineering. In R. Olawoyin, D.C. Hill, (eds.), Safety Leadership and Professional Development,. Park Ridge, IL:? American Society of Safety Professionals, pp? 355-372Carayon, P., Xie, A., & Kianfar, S. (2014). Human factors and ergonomics as a patient safety practice. BMJ Quality & Safety, 23(3), 196–205. , C. (2011). The importance of ergonomics for the safety professional. EHS Today, 4(2), 45. Retrieved from ................
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