Implementing Practical Ergonomics Knowledge Transfer Using Ergonomic Checkpoints to Support the Participatory Ergonomics Process in an Industrially Developing Country | JoVE Visualize

Implementing Practical Ergonomics Knowledge Transfer Using Ergonomic Checkpoints to Support the Participatory Ergonomics Process in an Industrially Developing Country

Nosrat Abdollahpour¹, Faramarz Helali²

¹Department of Occupational Health Engineering and Ergonomics, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.

IISE Transactions on Occupational Ergonomics and Human Factors|March 30, 2022

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Effective ergonomics knowledge transfer in developing countries requires active worker involvement. A participatory approach using action learning and ILO tools enhances learning and problem-solving for better workplace conditions.

Area of Science:

Occupational Health and Safety
Human Factors and Ergonomics
Industrial Engineering

Background:

Knowledge transfer of ergonomics principles presents challenges in developing nations.
Systemic implementation requires engagement across all organizational levels, particularly workers, guided by ergonomics experts.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate effective strategies for ergonomics knowledge transfer and application in organizational settings.
To evaluate the impact of participatory ergonomics approaches on learning and competence.

Main Methods:

Implementation of a participatory ergonomics process incorporating top-down and bottom-up approaches.
Utilizing action learning, a learner-centered methodology, and the International Labour Organization (ILO) ergonomic checkpoints.
Facilitation by an ergonomics expert to guide knowledge transfer and application.

Main Results:

Active involvement of all organizational levels, especially workers, significantly improved learning of ergonomics principles.
The process enhanced personnel competence in identifying issues and implementing practical, often low-cost, solutions for workplace improvements.
The use of ILO ergonomic checkpoints was instrumental in improving participant learning.

Conclusions:

Participatory ergonomics, particularly with action learning and a learner-centered focus, is effective for transferring practical ergonomics knowledge.
Continuous application through improvement cycles can foster an improved ergonomics culture and yield tangible benefits in Human Factors/Ergonomics.
This approach empowers personnel to create safer and more efficient working conditions.