ABSTRACT

Human factors and ergonomics (HF/E) has a tradition of working with stakeholders and end users within a participatory approach. Employee/end-user engagement allows for better comprehension of specic nuances and intricate details of the workplace/environment, project context, and interactions between various elements in the system. It also allows for solutions and outcomes that are more appropriate, effective, and acceptable for the employees/end users. Engaging employees/end users and fostering various levels of participation require consideration of key roles for those involved, assurance that ethical obligations are met, and facilitation/training by HF/E practitioners. Engagement levels can evolve over time, with progression

Practitioner Summary ............................................................................................ 359 Background ............................................................................................................360 Development of Participatory Models ...................................................................360 Types of Employee Engagement ............................................................................ 361 Key Considerations for Developing Frontline Worker Engagement ..................... 362

Establishing Trust and Understanding Previous Experiences ....................... 363 Ethical Considerations .................................................................................. 363 Understanding Principles of Capacity-Building ...........................................364