Evidence for applying ergonomic principles to the design of new facilities

This application involves the design of two new facilities at a major medical center. Both facilities were built at approximately the same time and both house people performing similar functions. The design group for one facility (A) enlisted the help of an ergonomist and the design group for the other facility (B) chose not to involve the ergonomist. After one year of occupancy, numerous employees in Facility B have requested ergonomic evaluations to help rid them of neck, back, shoulder, and wrist discomfort or pain. Only one employee in Facility A has asked for an evaluation or complained of musculoskeletal pain. These observations indicate the importance of involving an ergonomist in the design of new facilities.

Duke Scholars

Author Tamara M. James Family Medicine and Community Health, Occupational & Environ ...