ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on occupational ergonomics. It examines the need for studying ergonomics and the costs and benefits associated with addressing the ergonomic problem. The chapter presents the physiological basis of ergonomics and options for the elimination and/or control of ergonomic hazards. Most ergonomics problems arise out of pre-existing operations. It is then important for specially trained professionals to anticipate, recognize, and identify ergonomic hazards. Evaluation and control measures would be some of the activities that would have to be performed and implemented to eliminate ergonomic hazards and minimize ergonomic risk factors. When examining the human element associated with ergonomics, there are four broad areas of concern: physiological factors, psychological factors, behavioral factors, and psychosocial factors. The chapter concludes with the review of several case studies that demonstrate options used to eliminate occupational ergonomic hazards.
