Ergonomics: What Is It?
To most people ergonomics is something that is related to a workstation or a tool.
Erg stands for “work” and nomics relates to “law”. So you put the two together and come up with, “the laws of work”.
It is a relatively new science and started in WW II when cockpit design for fighter pilots was being worked on. The design had to be user friendly so the pilots could make fast and appropriate decisions under pressure.
So often the person has to “fit to the job”. Ergonomics aims to make the job fit the person. Anything that affects a persons ability to work effectively and safely (e.g. lifting heavy loads, poor work posture, noise, lack of adequate ventilation, temperature) all come under the umbrella of ergonomics.
Physiotherapists who have a good understanding of ergonomics will provide a better service for their patients wanting to get back to work and sport.
Ergo tip: Keep square on to your load when lifting and placing back down.
See also: Worksite Assessment / Ergonomics and Occupational Injury
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