What is the Ergonomics Branch?

What is Ergonomics?
Ergonomics is the applied science of equipment design (for the workplace) intended to maximize productivity by reducing operator fatigue and discomfort. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA, 1999) defines ergonomics as follows:

“Ergonomics is the science of fitting jobs to people. Ergonomics encompasses the body of knowledge about physical abilities and limitations as well as other human characteristics that are relevant to job design. Ergonomic design is the application of this body of knowledge to the design of the workplace (i.e., work tasks, equipment, environment) for safe and efficient use by workers. Good ergonomic design makes the most efficient use of worker capabilities while ensuring that job demands do not exceed those capabilities.”

When we define ergonomics in terms of science, it is the science of designing products that work in accordance with the way humans think, see and behave. Products that are compatible with people will dramatically reduce human error, fatigue, discomfort and stress and have a profound positive impact on overall end-user performance.

Why an Ergonomics Branch within ASSE?
The purpose of the Ergonomics Branch is to provide quality services to its members and technical support to the Council on Practices and Standards (CoPS), the Society and the safety, health and environmental (SH&E) profession by identifying, encouraging and financially supporting opportunities for its members to:

Network and share successful practices
Establish and contribute to standards of practice
Influence government affairs

ASSE has recognized the importance of ergonomics by supporting educational programs on the topic for many years. As employers look to reduce their accidents and workers’ compensation costs, musculoskeletal injuries are the most costly and persistent. As SH&E professionals, we must look at workplace design and tools to reduce the stressors that can cause these injuries.

Ergonomics is a major part of the future of safety. The Ergonomics Branch was formed in response to a growing interest within ASSE. As the science of ergonomics evolves, SH&E professionals must stay abreast of the latest concepts and innovations. SH&E professionals should be at the forefront as technology changes. To address the needs of the many practice specialty members who already work in ergonomics, the Industrial Hygiene Practice Specialty sponsors the Ergonomics Branch.

What is the goal of the Ergonomics Branch?
The goal of the Ergonomics Branch is to be recognized for:

Exceeding members’ expectations
Professionalism
Continuous performance improvement
High-quality and innovative Branch and Practice Specialty contributions
A large and engaged membership
Fiscal responsibility and revenue production

The Ergonomics Branch can be the lead in position papers, white papers and discussions with regulatory bodies on ergonomic issues. The Branch can arrange for key ergonomics professionals to speak at conferences and to educate members on current and evolving concepts in ergonomics. The Branch can represent ASSE with other professional organizations, such as AIHA, on ergonomic issues.

Objectives and activities of the Ergonomics Branch include:

Publishing a triannual electronic newsletter with technical information of interest to SH&E professionals practicing ergonomic principles
Developing technical sessions for ASSE’s annual Professional Development Conference