Ergonomics Essay

786 Words2 Pages

In a society becoming burdened by both active and sedentary work, the consequences of overuse injuries, back and neck pain, and weight gain are inevitable. In order to protect the well-being of workers and improve their overall quality of life, the implementation of ergonomic strategies in the workplace is becoming increasingly popular. It is commonly believed that work-related physical symptoms were not addressed in writing until the mid-1800s, but it must be recognized that ergonomics has crucial roots in the practices of Ancient Greece. With changing philosophies throughout history, designers have built on Greek construction methods, work regulations, and tools to improve the comfort, safety, and efficacy associated with working.

As an Ancient Greek, one could expect to spend a fair amount of time in theatres for social and religious reasons. Thus, the design and construction of auditoriums was vital to the comfort and experience of viewers. …show more content…

In the mines of Lavrion, located near Athens, the state banned the removal of metal supporting poles and excessive smoking of the oil lamps used for lighting—this is perhaps the first regulation in history concerning occupational health and safety.6 If a contractor disobeyed these rules, they would be severely punished, regardless if the majority of workers were slaves (in Athens, slaves were generally treated humane, being welcomed into their families with a ceremony and protected from mistreatment by the law).7 Although they are not always adhered to, modern safety rules descended from these roots exist: disregarding societal status, disability, race, or gender, many employers and governments have strict regulations to prevent injury in the workplace. Before and even during many eras of discrimination, slavery, and prejudice, there existed very few (but some very important) universal safety regulations that have inspired modern

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