We've got a problem, something needs to change. We need an ergonomic evaluation/assessment. What does it involve?A site visit from our ergonomist to look at the work equipment, talk to the users, observe work and conduct a task analysis would be arranged. Measurements will be taken and the retailer's procedure manual read to gather any information relevant to the task. A report will then be prepared to give feedback on the findings with advice and recommendations for action where necessary. |
What is special about ergonomics in the Retail environment?The nature of the work often includes repetitive tasks with limited variation, in constrained spaces. New technologies need to be incorporated into work tasks - small changes can affect the whole work system. For example, PIN payment for customers. These devices need to be incorporated into the work space, be secure, private and accessible. Access to retail fixtures needs to be available to all able bodied and disabled people, employees and customers, including children, the elderly, pregnant women, any and everybody! This a huge design challenge as the equipment and environment need to be accessible and safe for use and protected from wilful or accidental damage. What benefits can we derive by improving ergonomics in the workplace?Improving ergonomics invariably leads to a smoother functioning, more efficient work environment that can:
And these can in turn be linked to:
Can an ergonomic design fit everyone?No, but ergonomists use anthropometric data* to ensure the best fit possible. Most designs use the 5th - 95th percentile range of the target population, covering 95% of people. * measuring the dimensions and other physical characteristics of people and applying this information to the design of things they will use. What is meant by "ergonomic design"?Ergonomic design ensures that people's capabilities and limitations are taken into account in the design process and that the end product is fit for use by the target users. What is “Ergonomics”?Ergonomics is the application of scientific information about humans, to design objects, systems and environments for human use. Ergonomics touches every aspect of people's lives and is human-centred by nature. |
