Ergonomics
Dr D Goddard
1 hour 35 minutes per week over 14 weeks * Second semester
The aim is to show the way that the design of work and workplaces can affect health and assist the placement of people. At the end of this subject, students will be broadly aware of the structure of the human body and the function of the locomotor system, and how this knowledge is applied to the design of work via anthropometry, biomechanics, task design and the rules for manual handling. A worksite visit puts this in practical context. In addition, students will be aware of the psychology of perception and how errors of perception lead to accidents. Overall, students will be aware of how ergonomics is used to address work-station design and to influence the management of work.
Assessment
Assignment (2000 words): 50% * Short-answer/multiple-choice examination: 50%
Prescribed texts
Grandjean E Fitting the task to the man 4th edn, Taylor and Francis, 1988
Occupational Health and Safety (Manual Handling) Regulations 1988 and Code of Practice (Victoria)