This is a three page summary of a terribly written report on ergonomics and interior design for institutions based on the principles of ergonomics. The outline condenses the poorly written material and makes it legible, at least. While by no means a comprehensive view of the subject, the outline does provide a general overview of ergonomics via two hospital case studies.
Env Design
The field of ergonomics takes into account the following:
Anthropometrics (body measurements)
Biomechanics and physiology
Environmental Ergonomics.
Cognitive ergonomics
Ergonomics design and evaluation
Ergonomics specific needs
Ergonomics law
Three Components of Ergonomics and Environmental / Interior Design
• Anthropometry: body size, strength, shape, and work capacity.
• Ergonomics: study of behavior and activities of people; adapting systems and workstations to the needs of users; different applications in various fields such as biomechanics, environmental, cognitive science
• Relation to Environmental / Interior Design: "Anthropometric data are used to design workspaces, safety equipment and personal protection tools considering the differences between the characteristics, abilities, and physical limits of any particular human body," (p 3)
Key Points of Ergonomic Design
Appropriate for the end user (age, gender)
Do not rely on "average man" theory, which rarely works
Keep in mind reach, clearance, and adjustability factors
Time and funding are considerations in the design and engineering process
Case Study: Hospital Surgical Workplace
The same principles that govern design in other areas apply to the surgical situation
Special needs apply to surgeons because of their use of specific equipment and a lot of it
Bulky equipment, including operating tables, lights monitors
Problems with equipment design:
lack of standardization in equipment design across different models, brands;
poor inspection poor maintenance poor dimensions
Poor lighting (hard to focus, hard to cast shadows)
Cables and tubing in the way
Computers, videos, and camera operation
Presence of support staff
Pedals
Tables
Planning and design of the rooms themselves (placement of light switches, adequate storage space; anesthetic access)
Timing issues with regards to surgery
Sterile zones
Monitors
Results of Case Study: Findings
No musculoskeletal complaints
Good design is a problem, due to complaints related to equipment and room design
Surveys like this are necessary
Results of Case Study: Recommendations
Doors should be open; better maintenance needed
Choice of music
Windows to outside wanted
Need for alert system
Size of room varies
Improved design of anesthesia systems (greatest number of complaints here)
Better view of imaging machines
Need more adjustable seats
Temperature regulations (need to self-regulate via clothing)
Optics of laparoscopes -- better imaging to reduce eye strain
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