Final answer:
Ergonomics, also known as human factors psychology, is the applied science of designing environments to optimize human performance and well-being. It focuses on the interaction between humans and their physical and cognitive work environment, with the goal of creating safe, efficient, and comfortable work environments. Human factors professionals play a crucial role in designing workstations, developing regulations, and promoting sustainable engineering solutions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Human factors psychology, also known as ergonomics, is the applied science of designing environments that optimize human performance and well-being. It focuses on the interaction between humans and their physical and cognitive work environment, such as machines, workstations, and information displays. The goal is to create environments that are safe, efficient, and comfortable, reducing the risk of work-related injuries and improving overall productivity.
For example, human factors professionals may design workstations that are ergonomically optimized, ensuring that they provide the necessary support and comfort for workers to perform their tasks without strain or injury. They may also develop regulations and best design principles to enhance work safety, such as control-center workstations for transportation or industrial process control. Additionally, human factors psychology considers the impact of technology on the environment and strives to mitigate any unintended consequences, promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly engineering solutions.
In summary, ergonomics is the applied science of designing environments to optimize human performance and well-being. It aims to create safe, efficient, and comfortable work environments by considering the interaction between humans and their physical and cognitive work environment. Human factors professionals play a crucial role in designing workstations, developing regulations, and promoting sustainable engineering solutions to enhance productivity and mitigate the risk of work-related injuries.