IOPS 121 Study Unit 10 PDF: Ergonomic Design in the Workplace

STUDY UNIT 10 Ergonomic design in the workplace IOPS 121  LEARNING OUTCOMES After completing this study unit you should be able to: Evaluate the relationship between ergonomics and design Differentiate between user-centred and human- centred design Compare promine...

STUDY UNIT 10 Ergonomic design in the workplace IOPS 121  LEARNING OUTCOMES After completing this study unit you should be able to: Evaluate the relationship between ergonomics and design Differentiate between user-centred and human- centred design Compare prominent ergonomic design models Discuss important considerations when designing for work postures, task requirements, special populations and inclusivity Ergonomics design relationship Ergonomics: Scientific study and understanding of human interactions with other components of a workplace or system. Design: The process of imagining and planning the creation and development of workplaces and systems. Ergonomic design: Enables us to arrange and optimize workplaces, products, businesses to suit the people who use them. Ergonomics design relationship Design of Sitting at a Design of a Airport / train COVID-19? headphones computer store station User-centred design (UCD) Focusses on the way in which the user usually does things Accounts for the user’s preferences and needs while the workplace or system is being designed. Understanding Establishing Designing Testing and context requirements solutions evaluating Human-centred design (HCD) Aims to make systems and products usable and useful. Focusses on the users needs, requirements, and contextual knowledge and techniques. Empathise Implement Brainstorm Test Prototype Human-centred design (HCD) Benefits of HCD: Workers are more likely to be invested when the HCD is used. Workers will continue to use the product because they feel a sense of ownership in terms of the design. Can improve productivity. Designs are easier to understand and use when workers provide input. Because workers are involved in the design process they have an increased user experience. Ergonomic design models The sociotechnical system model People and organizational structures are complex, this model takes into account that technology and technical processes are too. The HWTH model Inner and outer layers that contain different factors which are likely to impact ergonomic design in the workplace. The 3C design framework When there is a balance between job demands, worker capabilities and demands in design, there will be desirable responses in the workplace, such as safety Ergonomic design models The human factors and ergonomics Incorporates all of the other models, but (HFE) onion model focusses specifically on how each factor interacts with the other factors in the workplace. The conceptual model of ergonomic Looks at the human-technology- practice workplace-environment factors in the workplace. The work system model Focusses on how to create more connectedness, collaboration and creativity through ergonomic design in the workplace. Designing for work postures The standing operator: Workers should have their backs straight when working. Desks should be designed for the correct height of the worker, adjustable. Worker should be able to avoid bending repetitively. Avoid twisting positions as far as possible Tools and technology should be within reach of the worker. Stools need to be close by for the worker to rest Relaxed arms and shoulders Avoid twisting hands and wrists Using a footrest can provide the worker with more comfort Floors should not cause workers to slip Designing for work postures The seated operator: Common issue with seated operators are sedentary behaviour. Harms body’s circulation. Adjustable desks are needed. If adjustable desks cannot be afforded, workers need to include physical activity into their workdays. Accounting for individual differences (height, weight) The seated operator What is right with this picture? The seated operator What is wrong with this picture? Designing for task requirements Important risk factors: Forceful exertions Repetition Awkward positions Static postures Dynamic factors Mechanical compression Vibration Designing for task requirements Hand-use: Design of equipment when working with your hands. Consider the type of task, if it is repetitive, the frequency. Foot operation: Interaction with pedal system. Accidental contact. Vision: Intensity of light, surface glare, clear (minimal strain, no flickering), easy to read information. Noise: Consider the noise exposure of equipment. Designing for special populations Elderly Pregnant Designing for inclusivity Participatory Accessibility ergonomics