In February 2001, Robert Down discussed ergonomics and how there is often a misunderstanding of what it is. He defines it as: “Ergonomics is a science, just like chemistry or physics. But it is multidisciplinary, drawing upon knowledge gained from diverse disciplines, including anatomy, physiology and psychology. Ergonomics tries to optimise people’s working conditions…with regard to the person’s individual safety, wellbeing and performance.”
Down goes on to discuss the Display Screen Regulations that came into force in 1992, which had been slow to take hold, and suggests that companies look to comply with a legal minimum rather than trying to optimise the work system, which doesn’t benefit employees and can lead to problems.
The article also contained practical advice for setting up a work station, beginning with looking beyond the immediate environment to any personal issue a worker may have, for example if they need glasses or have any problems due to injury etc.
In this episode of the Safety & Health Podcast, ‘Burnout, stress and being human’, Heather Beach is joined by Stacy Thomson to discuss burnout, perfectionism and how to deal with burnout as an individual, as management and as an organisation.
We provide an insight on how to tackle burnout and why mental health is such a taboo subject, particularly in the workplace.
