Standard Guide for Integration of Ergonomics/Human Factors into New Occupational Systems

Abstract

5.1 Integrating ergonomic principles into new occupational systems may help businesses develop processes that do not exceed worker capabilities and limitations. 5.2 Jobs and tasks that conform to worker capabilities and limitations may be performed more efficiently, safely, and consistently than those that do not. 5.3 The application of ergonomic principles to the processes involved in occupational systems may help avoid system failures and inefficiencies. 5.4 The integration of ergonomic principles at the earliest stages of process concept and design may facilitate appropriate design, layout, and allocation of resources and may reduce or eliminate the necessity for later redesign that could have been foreseen. 5.5 Designing jobs that fit the capabilities of larger population segments may increase an organization's accessibility to the available labor pool. 5.6 The integration of ergonomic principles into occupational systems may increase profit by lowering direct and indirect costs associated with preventable losses, injuries, and illnesses. 5.7 The bibliography contains a list of reference materials that may be useful in particular applications. All appendixes are nonmandatory.