Observations on the Application of Human Factors and Ergonomics

The human factors and ergonomics (HFE) discipline applies the knowledge of humans, obtained through HFE or other scientific research, to help humans have a more productive, safe, comfortable, and healthy life when performing any activities, including every day activities or work related tasks. By applying knowledge of ergonomics and human factors, we can also create conditions where humans can accomplish tasks with more reliability, less error, and confidence. Therefore, this discipline or profession is not only necessary in designing tools, objects, or spaces (software or hardware and virtual or physical space) but it is also necessary in order to better organize and manage systems and train the human operators or users. Today this discipline is going far beyond just physiological, biomechanical studies, or occupational ergonomics, which to some degree was its focus especially during early phase of its creation. Many are more familiar with the application of this discipline from a physical aspect or an occupational injuries perspective. Some might believe that the application of this discipline is more useful for developed societies that have advanced technology or manufacturing systems. Many might not even think about the variety of HFE applications that can be extremely useful in many other aspects of a person’s life. These aspects, in contrary, might be more present in developing societies. Consequently, applied ergonomics and human factors in developing societies not only help the society save money, but also extensively help people have a more productive, safe, healthy and pleasant life. In this presentation I will try to illustrate several of these applications in the context of Iranian society and comment on a few concepts such as: development, cultural characteristics, education, and awareness from an ergonomics perspective.