What is Ergonomics?

Ergonomics applies the knowledge of a human’s capabilities and limitations to the design of workplaces, workstations, tasks, tools, equipment, and the work environment as a whole.

Ergonomics is essentially fitting the workplace to the worker.

The word ergonomics is derived from the Greek roots:

“ergo” = work”   “nomos” = law
or
“The Laws of Work”

The primary goal of ergonomics in the workplace is to reduce the risk of a work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WMSD) by reducing or eliminating worker exposure to hazards which promote a WMSD. Other ergonomic goals include: