ABSTRACT

The field of human factors and ergonomics (HFE) revolves around optimizing human performance in systems and reducing errors by designing those systems to accommodate the capabilities and limitations of humans from a perceptual, cognitive, and physical perspective. An early example of this type of thinking goes back to the scholar Hippocrates, who suggested optimal positions for the surgeon, patient, and light source to facilitate operations, and provided guidance about surgical tool shapes and sizes that would be easiest to use. These ideas were precursors to the philosophy underlying HFE of designing for human use. The increasing awareness of practical HFE applications resulted in the creation and growth of other professional and governmental organizations during this 1950s and 1960s period, many of which continue to be prominent agencies in the field. HFE draws from multiple disciplines including engineering, psychology, occupational health, environmental design, medicine, and others.