The easiest way to define ergonomics is to state the purpose of ergonomics: It aims to help create work settings that bring out the best in people.
Ergonomics is concerned with anything and everything that impacts individual performance. That includes physical factors – like noise, light and heat – as well as psychosocial factors – like stress, motivation and the sense of control over one’s environment. In other words, ergonomics pays equal attention to both body and mind.
A majority of today’s workplaces are ergonomically inefficient. Most jobs are insulting to the body and offer only limited stimulation for the mind. The result is a tremendous drain on the world’s economic resources.
- Health and Safety – Cumulative Trauma Disorders increased by more than 800% from 1980 to 1993, costing U.S. businesses more than $24 billion in medical and indirect costs.
- Lost Productivity – Back injuries are the second leading cause of absenteeism among U.S. workers, costing industry between $20 billion and $50 billion annually.
- Litigation – As employees become more knowledgeable, lawsuits alleging improper ergonomic standards are increasing.
Many more examples could be cited in each category – but all of them pale in comparison to the decline in the quality of work associated with poor ergonomic environments.
Obviously, the problems are numerous. But that means the opportunity is great. And progressive companies that invest more dollars in ergonomically sound environments are experiencing long-term savings from increased worker well-being and productivity. |
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