Ergonomics Course

Lesson 1 • Ergonomics Programme Fundamentals

Outlines the components of an effective workplace ergonomics programme. Frames the course as preparation for real programme implementation.

Lesson 2 • Defining Ergonomics and Its Scope

Covers the definition, history, and domains of ergonomics as a discipline. Provides the conceptual baseline for all subsequent chapters.

Lesson 3 • Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders

Identifies common musculoskeletal disorders caused by workplace exposures. Establishes the health and economic rationale for ergonomic intervention.

Lesson 4 • Ergonomic Risk Factors Overview

Introduces primary risk factors including force, repetition, posture, and vibration. Prepares students to identify hazards before formal assessment methods are introduced.

Lesson 1 • Principles of Anthropometry

Defines anthropometry and explains how body measurement data is collected and reported. Grounds workspace design in quantitative human dimensions.

Lesson 2 • Using Anthropometric Data in Design

Teaches how to apply percentile data to set workspace dimensions and reach zones. Directly links measurement data to practical design decisions.

Lesson 3 • Accommodating Diverse Populations

Addresses design challenges posed by cross-cultural, ageing, and differently abled workers. Reinforces inclusive design as a professional obligation.

Lesson 1 • Biomechanical Modelling Concepts

Introduces static and dynamic biomechanical models used to estimate joint loads. Bridges observational posture analysis with quantitative risk estimation.

Lesson 2 • Spinal Biomechanics and Low Back Risk

Analyses forces on the lumbar spine during lifting, bending, and twisting. Directly addresses the most prevalent source of occupational injury.

Lesson 3 • Posture Classification and Observation

Teaches systematic observation of body posture during work tasks. Prepares students to document postural data for formal risk assessment tools.

Lesson 4 • Fundamentals of Occupational Biomechanics

Introduces force, torque, lever systems, and centre of gravity as applied to the human body. Provides the mechanical foundation for posture and load analysis.

Lesson 1 • Thermal Comfort and Air Quality

Identifies temperature, humidity, and air quality parameters that affect worker comfort and performance. Integrates environmental factors into holistic workstation design.

Lesson 2 • Office Workstation Ergonomics

Covers chair, desk, monitor, and keyboard placement for computer-based work. Establishes the standard reference point for office ergonomic assessments.

Lesson 3 • Visual Environment and Lighting

Defines lighting requirements for visual comfort and task accuracy. Connects visual ergonomics to workstation design and error reduction.

Lesson 4 • Industrial and Manual Workstation Design

Addresses workstation layout for assembly, packaging, and manual handling tasks. Extends design principles beyond the office to production environments.

Lesson 1 • Manual Handling Assessment Tools

Covers lifting equation models and push-pull assessment methods for manual tasks. Addresses the highest-risk category of physical work demands.

Lesson 2 • Overview of Assessment Tool Categories

Classifies assessment tools by complexity, output type, and application domain. Guides students in selecting the right tool for a given workplace scenario.

Lesson 3 • Rapid Upper Limb Assessment Techniques

Applies posture-based scoring tools for upper limb and whole-body risk evaluation. Builds hands-on proficiency with the most widely used screening methods.

Lesson 4 • Measurement Instruments and Wearables

Introduces electrogoniometers, force gauges, and wearable sensors for objective data collection. Advances students from observation to instrumented measurement.

Lesson 1 • Pushing, Pulling, and Carrying Tasks

Analyses force demands and postural risks in non-lifting manual tasks. Extends manual handling principles beyond vertical lifting.

Lesson 2 • Principles of Safe Lifting Technique

Teaches biomechanically sound lifting postures and load management strategies. Establishes the behavioural baseline before engineering controls are introduced.

Lesson 3 • Mechanical Assists and Lifting Devices

Evaluates hoists, lift tables, conveyors, and carts for manual handling elimination. Connects device selection to task demands and workplace constraints.

Lesson 4 • Training Workers in Manual Handling

Designs effective manual handling training programmes for frontline workers. Addresses the role and limitations of training as an ergonomic control.

Lesson 1 • Human Error Classification and Analysis

Classifies error types and applies systematic analysis to identify root causes. Prepares students to design error-resistant work systems.

Lesson 2 • Display and Control Design Principles

Applies human factors principles to the design of visual displays and physical controls. Directly reduces cognitive load and error probability in equipment operation.

Lesson 3 • Designing Error-Tolerant Work Systems

Applies defence-in-depth and poka-yoke strategies to prevent and mitigate errors. Integrates cognitive ergonomics into system and process design.

Lesson 4 • Mental Workload Assessment

Introduces subjective and objective methods for measuring mental workload in work tasks. Enables students to quantify cognitive demands alongside physical ones.

Lesson 1 • Intervention Selection and Implementation

Applies the hierarchy of controls to select and implement ergonomic solutions. Guides students from hazard identification to actionable workplace change.

Lesson 2 • Regulatory Compliance and Documentation

Identifies ergonomics-related regulatory obligations and documentation requirements. Ensures students can demonstrate programme compliance to oversight bodies.

Lesson 3 • Programme Evaluation and Continuous Improvement

Establishes metrics, audits, and review cycles to measure programme effectiveness. Closes the programme management loop with evidence-based improvement processes.

Lesson 4 • Job Hazard Analysis and Prioritisation

Applies systematic job analysis to identify, rank, and prioritise ergonomic hazards. Connects assessment data to resource allocation decisions.

Lesson 5 • Employee Participation and Engagement

Designs participatory ergonomics processes that involve workers in hazard identification and solution development. Builds programme sustainability through frontline ownership.