ABSTRACT
The terms human factors, ergonomics, human factors engineering, and human engineering are often used interchangeably to describe a multidisciplinary endeavor that is concerned with designing man-made objects so that people can use them effectively and safely, and creating environments suitable for living and work. If equipment and workstations are not designed and arranged to meet the requirements and capabilities of humans, the people who use that equipment will not be able to perform required tasks, or will make errors in their attempts to do so. Such errors may degrade system performance, and compromise both the safety and the success of the mission for which the equipment was designed (Huchingson, 1981). This chapter describes ways that attention to human factors research projects can contribute to improved reliability of law enforcement personnel. It then introduces human factors as an essential element of MANPRINT, a system for incorporating manpower, personnel, human engineering, and other domains into the development and acquisition of equipment to increase the efficiency and reliability of performance by law enforcement personnel. The chapter continues with a new role for human factors in establishing reasonable accommodations for impaired law enforcement personnel, as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act.
