ABSTRACT
Alongside improving comfort and performance, preventing injury and illness has always been a fundamental concern of ergonomics. The welfare of users, operators and others involved in the functioning of a system has to be a priority. However, as with other areas, for example “cognitive ergonomics” and “human-computer interaction,” a branch has emerged dealing predominantly with “health and safety ergonomics” issues. Those working in this area have the prevention of accidents, injuries and illness, due to work or other interactions with tools, equipment and environments, as their primary focus. Most activity at present is in the occupational arena.
