Ergonomics - Atlas Copco

This is only the direct cost. The indirect
costs generated by work-related disorders
are primarily in connection with productiv-
ity losses and quality problems. The rela-
tionship between direct and indirect costs is
not really known, but indications are that
the indirect cost may be in the order
of three times the direct cost.
Today we see a growing demand for
more scientific research in this field. When
the true extent of costs related to bad ergo-
nomics is made public, the possibilities of
obtaining funding for workplace improve-
ments will be much improved.
ergonomics
Ergonomics is a relatively new science
combining knowledge from three disciplines
– human science, work-related sciences and
production science. Few ergonomists cover
the entire field and it is usually personal
interest that determines the individual’s
profile of expertise.
Teamwork contributes to the total
knowledge available. In a planning situation
all team members can become ergonomists in
their search for human and practical solutions.
The role of the trained ergonomist is
to support the team and try to identify in advance
work situations where excessive loads
are likely to be placed on the operator.
Operator involvement
An operator with a high level of job satisfaction
can be motivated to work more
efficiently and to become more actively
involved in the production system. Thus,
increased productivity and improved product
quality can be expected. Compatibility
between machine, work organization and
operator is therefore crucial to work performance
and product quality.
If the physical and psychological demands
of a production system exceed an operator’s
capacity for a prolonged period, the
operator may suffer work injuries. Improving
the interaction between the operators
and their working environment is a major
task on the agenda of most industries.
To achieve the ultimate goal of increasing
overall productivity, an optimal interaction
between the operators and their working
environment should be established, and
poor interaction eliminated.
This task calls for simultaneous study
of the work organization, machines, workstations,
production procedures, the physical
and psychological capabilities of the
employees, and the combined interaction
of all these elements.