Ergonomics & Human Factors is a scientific discipline concerned with understanding the interactions among humans and their tasks, jobs, products, environments and systems. E&HF look at human behaviour in the work environment; capabilites and limitations (physical and psychosocial), wellbeing, human and system performance. Principles, data and methods are applied to the design and evaluation in order to optimise human wellbeing, safety and overall system performance. Ergonomics and Human Factors are interchangeable terms.
There is great potential for ergonomics and human factors to raise its profile especially with Covid-19, when human behaviour in the work environment; individuals capabilities and limitations (physical and psychosocial), productivity levels and physical and mental wellbeing are more important than ever. No longer is considering ergonomics and human factors as a nicety; they are now essential for addressing social sustainability in the workplace.
Our challenge is getting employers to see the benefits of ergonomics and where it fits in with a sound health and safety work culture, promoting not just safe practices but understanding how incorporating good, ergonomic principals, can create that 'win-win' scenario for employees' wellbeing and their business's bottom line.
How are happy, healthy workers and increased profits achieved? By improving employees comfort levels, safety, satisfaction and morale these then lead to reduced absenteeism, increased staff retention, efficiency, quality out-put and productivity.
At Ergo & Wellbeing we are passionate about sharing our knowledge and understanding of applying ergonomic and human factors principals and how they make a significant difference to human life, wellbeing and safety whilst reducing risks of harm associated with mental and physical health. We are always looking to promote their significant benefits in all workplace settings, particularly in manufacturing and the design of the modern workspace.
With a common sense and practical approach we look at creating a 'win-win' scenario for employees wellbeing and their business's bottom line. That's the holy grail of ergonomics and human factors!
Employees are a business's most valuable assets!
Fact - happy, healthy, valued workers work better.
Has your organisation considered having an ergonomic review?
Sustainability is made up of three pillars: economy, society, and the environment. These principles are also informally used as profit, people and planet.
Are there underperforming people or departments in your business? Is staff turnover and absenteeism high? Could productivity levels be increased?
Perhaps a human factors review is required or a corporate ergonomic program needs implemented? Ergonomics and human factors is an ideal way to assess the interaction of your employees and the tasks they carry out in your business.
Often a fresh and independent set of eyes can identify workplace practices and areas were improvement or changes would be significantly beneficial.
Our consultant can facilitate reviews, assessments and contribute with common sense and creative recommendations and solutions.
Work environment consultations consider;
promoting proactive ergonomics
understanding human behaviour, needs, capabilities and limitations (physical and psychosocial) in working environments or design processes
promoting and utilising psychological, human factors, ergonomic and anthropometric principals
sound problem solving using a systematic thinking, holistic approach applicable in various industrial, commercial, corporate and design contexts
understanding how ergonomics, anthropometrics and human factors influence complex systems and impact productivity levels and quality of out-put
providing innovative solutions promoting social sustainability and physical and mental wellness in the workplace.
Is ergonomics in the workplace worth investing in?
In the US, The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries reviewed 250 ergonomic case studies, outlining the impact of ergonomics on business cost savings, productivity and product quality.
Here is a link to the summary:
Ergonomic Cost Benefit Summary
Here are some of the proven benefits of implementing ergonomic reviews and making improvements.
Ergonomics reduces costs*
Ergonomics improves production
Ergonomics improves quality
Ergonomics improves employee engagement
Ergonomics creates a better safety and wellness culture in your organisation
*such as those associated with injury work-related musculoskeletal claims, recruitment costs for high employee turnover, absenteeism during illness or injury)
According to the Washinton State Department of Labor and Industries;
"The best results were seen when organizations:
-Implemented a comprehensive program with management support
-Incorporated ergonomics principles in the design stage
-Had employees participate in planning changes
-Involved groups such as engineering, purchasing and facilities
-Evaluated workstations and provided individualized recommendations
-Provided engineering controls along with training to users
-Evaluated and improved lighting, glare, temperature, noise and other environmental factors
-Provided medical management of injury claims when they did occur
-Evaluated the program and made continuous improvements”
In the UK, the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors also have created a comprehensive paper outlining a series of case studies across various sectors, showing how an ergonomics and human factors approach can make life better, safer, provide increased satisfaction, efficiency, productivity and quite ofter enjoyment. All significant in adding value.
CIEHF - The Human Connection - series of case studies
The HSE’s guidance on considering Human Factors in the workplace they include information on Human Factors: The Business Benefits.
‘If you think safety’s expensive, try having an accident … Managing human failures is essential to prevent major accidents, occupational accidents and ill health, all of which can cost businesses money, reputation and potentially their continued existence’ HSE