What is Ergonomics?
Ergonomics is the science of designing work to fit the worker, aiming to make tasks easier, safer, and just as productive. The primary goal of ergonomics is to create a proper fit between employees and their job conditions, helping workers remain safe, comfortable, and efficient.
Ergonomic Risk Factors
Ergonomics focuses on identifying and reducing risks associated with the worker, the task, and the work environment. By analyzing these factors, ergonomics emphasizes working smarter—not harder. Key risk factor categories include:
- Worker-related risk factors: Physical attributes, psychological state, and non-work-related activities can influence an individual’s risk of injury.
- Task-related risk factors: Work procedures, equipment design, and workstation layout may contribute to injury risk.
- Environment-related risk factors: Physical conditions and psychosocial workplace factors can create additional risks.
Ergonomic hazards can result in painful and disabling injuries to muscles, joints, and other soft tissues, particularly in general industry jobs involving manual material handling. According to OSHA, ergonomic hazards are among the most common health risks across all industries and are a leading cause of workplace injuries.
A recent survey found that 40% of construction workers reported “working while hurt” as a significant problem. Continuing to work while injured reduces productivity and can lead to long-term, career-ending disabilities. Many laborers retire early—often by age 55—because they can no longer perform physically demanding work, and many face ongoing health issues that affect their quality of life in retirement.