ERGONOMICS ADVISORS - A HOMOGENEOUS GROUP?

摘要

A number of different professions apply "physical" ergonomics principles as part of their practice. In the drive to define and explain ergonomics as a field of practice, what professionals do in the name of ergonomics is important. This paper reports on a focus group study with professionals known to give advice on ergonomics issues as part of their work. Eight focus groups; two each of Ergonomists; Occupational Health Advisors; Health and Safety Advisors and Specialist Furniture/Equipment Suppliers were undertaken. Results show that there are differences between the professional groups in their aims, attitudes, perspectives and methods, when undertaking ergonomics activities. This paper focuses particularly on differences between the professions in their understanding of and their aims in using ergonomics. The implications of these differences are discussed.