Work Station Design -- What Makes it
Ergonomically Correct?
When you hear about the "ergonomic" features of toothbrushes, spray bottles, pens
and cars you start to wonder if this is just another marketing term for products. In
some cases it may be. However, when it comes to workstation design it is crucial to
have a good understanding of what makes something "ergonomic" and to learn how to
apply this knowledge to the computerized office environment.
The fundamental goal of ergonomic design is to adapt the work process, tools or
equipment and the working environment to fit the needs, size and capabilities of the
worker to enable the worker to work comfortably, safely and ultimately increase
productivity.
Let's face it, if you don't feel well, you don't work well and you are not performing at
peak efficiency. So how do we achieve our goal in the design process of
workstations? You must first put on a new pair of glasses and look at the design
process from another angle. Look at the details first and design the workstation from
the inside out.
There is an interrelation of multiple facets that revolve around and directly affect the
worker. They not only include the workstation and the equipment, but also include the
task, the environment and psychosocial factors. All of these items must be addressed
to successfully design an ergonomic workstation.
Since the worker is in the center of this web, it is important to know whom you are
designing the workstation for. Gather anthropometric data that deals with the size,
weight, height and proportions of the body to help determine space and size
requirements. Also, make yourself aware of other personnel matters, such as
management styles, organizational habits of the workers, personal needs and
perceived needs. An in-depth work flow analysis should be done to determine the
tasks performed, the supplies and equipment used in these tasks and the order in
which the tasks are performed. Look closely at the proximity of the equipment in
relationship to the work being d