ABSTRACT
The majority of the population in Industrially Developing Countries work in the agricultural sector, with human effort being the primary source of mechanical power. The multi-disciplinary approach of ergonomics addresses the input of human energy to work, aiming to improve the efficiency of human labour, reduce drudgery and improve safety and health. With the achievement of these goals, increases in productivity and well-being can be expected. Ergonomics research in industrially developing countries (IDCs) is
being practised with increasing momentum. With an increasing focus upon sustainable rural livelihoods in Development Programmes, the role of the ergonomist in helping reduce drudgery is becoming more widely recognised. Working as an ergonomist in an IDC however, can present practical challenges that are not encountered in developed (i.e. industrialised) countries. This paper addresses some of the issues encountered when conducting field work in IDCs. Primarily drawing from research in Ghana (McNeill, 1999), and anecdotal evidence and experiences in working with rural communities, practical implications of undertaking ergonomics research in the field are addressed and the implications discussed.
