Ergonomics Case Study

Derived from the Greek words “ergon”, meaning work, and “nomos”, meaning natural laws, ergonomics is the study of work. Often used interchangeably with the term human factors, ergonomics is a systems-oriented discipline with applications across all fields involving human performance. Ergonomics professionals are taught to consider physical, cognitive, social, organizational, environmental and other relevant factors when designing systems to optimize human well-being, satisfaction, and performance (IEA, 2017).

This module provides a brief overview of ergonomics and its implications in system design. Specifically, we discuss the three primary domains of ergonomics: cognitive ergonomics, physical ergonomics, and organizational or “macro” ergonomics. Links to resources for additional information are provided. Upon completing this module, the reader will have a better understanding of the role ergonomics plays in optimal system design.

A Brief History of Ergonomics & Human Factors:

During the nineteenth century, a mechanical engineer named Frederick Taylor applied engineering principles and the scientific method to factory operations in an effort to streamline labor productivity. Taylor’s book, The Principles of Scientific Management, described four core principles:

“First. They develop

For example, in 1992, The Human Factors Society, Inc. changed their name to the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES, 2013) in order to broaden the society to those in the physical ergonomics field. Then, in 2014, the Ergonomics Society was awarded a royal charter, so its name was changed to the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors (CIEHF). This royal charter also allows the society to confer Charter status to members who have, “a high level of qualification and experience” and “demonstrate continuing professional development” (Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors,