Ergonomics consists of set of disciplines that study the organization of work in which there are interactions between human beings and machines.
This term originated from the Greek ergonomic, which means "work", and names, which means “laws or norms”.
The main objective of ergonomics is develop and apply techniques for adapting elements of the work environment to human beings, with the objective of generating the workers' well-being and consequently increasing their productivity.
In the field of economics, ergonomics is the area that addresses topics related to the modern context of work, especially in industrial economics.
Two crucial topics in the field of ergonomics are safety at work and the prevention of accidents at work. In this context, ergonomics suggests the creation of suitable places and support for work, creation of methods and remuneration systems according to income (appreciation and study of work, for example).
Ergonomics also determines working hours, as well as its nationalization, and covers everything from a humanitarian perspective of the company and the relationships established within it.
The Ergonomics concept applies to the quality of adaptation of a machine to its operator, providing an effective handling and avoiding an extreme effort by the worker in carrying out the work.
Repetitive strain injuries (RSI) are one of the most common physical problems that can cause limitations or even the inability to work, for example. Using ergonomic solutions in the workplace is an initiative that can significantly increase worker satisfaction, effectiveness and efficiency.
See also: the meaning of Ergonomic.
human factors Human Factors) is a term used with the same meaning as ergonomics. When it comes to human factors or ergonomics, its application covers areas such as: aeronautics, technologies of information and communication, design of products adapted to human beings, care with physical and mental health, among other areas.
cognitive ergonomics
Cognitive ergonomics is also known as psychological engineering. The word "cognitive" suggests a relationship with a set of mental processes, including perception, attention, cognition, motor control, and memory storage and retrieval.
Cognitive ergonomics intends to analyze the impact that these processes have on the interaction of human beings and other elements within a system.
Some specific areas are: mental workload, surveillance, decision making, skills performance, human error, human-computer interaction, and training.
organizational ergonomics
Also known as macroergonomy, organizational ergonomics assumes that all work takes place within organizations.
Organizational ergonomics aims to leverage the organization's existing systems, including the organization's structure, policies and processes. Some of the specific areas are: shift work, work scheduling, job satisfaction, motivational theory, supervision, teamwork, distance work and ethics.