Ergoweb® Learning Center

We’ve published and shared thousands of ergonomics articles and resources since 1993. Search by keyword or browse for topics of interest.

Open Access Articles

September 7, 2013

10 Principles of Design

(Note: The contents below are available as printed booklets for training. See The Ergonomics Manual.) Work in neutral posturesThe field of ergonomics can be divided into two sub-fields: […]
September 7, 2013

Ergonomics — A foundation for production

User-friendly design Birth of ergonomics: World War II aircraft to make the cockpit “pilot friendly” The formal field of ergonomics was developed at the outbreak of […]
September 7, 2013

How to improve the ease of maintenance

[initial development] maintenance human factors: alertness, error reductions in maintenance tasks maintainability: designing equipment to minimize the need to make repairs as well as the ease […]
September 7, 2013

How to optimize hand tool use

[in initial development] The objectives of this page and the links are to show: Note: The primary focus of this information for workplace personnel to improve […]
September 7, 2013

How to improve manual material handling

[In development] Good, but seldom used options: air casters (left) and slides (right) The basics of material handling are generally well known. However, there are several […]
September 7, 2013

How to design a workstation

Stationary work bench Flexible positions on moving line A workstation is a work area set up for an individual person. The focus here is the industrial […]
September 7, 2013

How to set up a production line

The human factor Small work cell, workbenches Capital intensive, overhead conveyor Production area without “line” per se The human interface with equipment is a critical factor […]
September 6, 2013

Lifting Assists

  Lift in constrained area; possible use for cradle Principles affected Posture Force Related pages Material handling Hoists and cranes Lift trucks Lifter-transporters Background Lift heavy objects […]
September 6, 2013

Mobile High Work Platforms

Working in high position can create multiple challenges Principles affected Posture Reach Height Related pages Workstations Work platforms Storage (at point-of-use) Background Maintenance personnel often need access […]
September 6, 2013

Footrests — Sitting or Standing

Pressure points behind the knees Instinctive need for any type of change in position Principles affected Posture Fatigue Pressure points Related pages Workstations: Seating Flooring Sit/Stand […]
September 6, 2013

Flooring

Walking/Working/Standing Surfaces Instinctive use of cardboard to gain cushioning Background The human body does not tolerate standing on hard surfaces well. The most direct effect is […]
September 6, 2013

Seating

Poor chair Makeshift lumbar support Principles affected Posture Fatigue Pressure points Clearance Movement Related pages Workstations: Sit-stand Flooring Platforms Foot rests Background The problems with sitting […]
September 6, 2013

Sit/Stand Workstations

It is best to alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day There is no single posture that is correct for a full workday. The body […]
September 6, 2013

Clearance

Inadequate knee clearance creates twist Inadequate lower leg clearance creates long reach Background Occasionally, workstations are set up without consideration for leg and knee clearance. As […]
September 6, 2013

Arm Supports and Cushions

Cushioning Table edge cushioning Small benchtop cushions Box used as arm support Foam pad brought from home Principles affected Posture Fatigue Pressure points Related pages Workstations: […]
September 6, 2013

Standing Platforms

Adjustable stands on meat processing line Principles affected Posture Height Related pages Material handling (height adjustable) Lifts Carts Containers Workstations Adjustable height workstation Flooring Maintenance High […]
September 6, 2013

Slanted work surface

Horizontal: More difficult to perform work, increased strain on back Slanted: easier, faster, less strain on back Principles affected Posture Reach Height Fatigue Related pages Workstations: […]
September 6, 2013

Workstation Surface Material

Glare Clearance Principles affected Posture Force Clearance Environment (lighting) Related pages Workstations Parts handling Lighting Material handling Slides Background Depending on the task and the conditions in […]