Which statement best defines ergonomics in the workplace?

Which statement best defines ergonomics in the workplace?

• A. The study of fitting work to people to prevent musculoskeletal disorders through workstation design, tools, and pacing.
• B. A method for evaluating risk across different processes.
• C. A framework for incident reporting and investigations.
• D. Techniques for selecting personal protective equipment.

Answer: (A)

Ergonomics in the workplace is about fitting the job to the person to prevent musculoskeletal disorders. This means designing the workstation, choosing tools, and setting work pace to match how people move and what they can tolerate, so tasks cause fewer awkward postures, less force, and fewer repetitive strain risks. For example, adjusting chair height and monitor position to keep the spine aligned, placing frequently used items within easy reach, using tools with comfortable grips, and allowing appropriate breaks and pacing all help workers perform safely and comfortably. Other statements treat broad risk assessment across processes, incident reporting and investigations, or selecting personal protective equipment—important safety activities, but they don’t capture the focus of ergonomics on aligning work with human capabilities to prevent injuries.

Ergonomics in the workplace is about fitting the job to the person to prevent musculoskeletal disorders. This means designing the workstation, choosing tools, and setting work pace to match how people move and what they can tolerate, so tasks cause fewer awkward postures, less force, and fewer repetitive strain risks. For example, adjusting chair height and monitor position to keep the spine aligned, placing frequently used items within easy reach, using tools with comfortable grips, and allowing appropriate breaks and pacing all help workers perform safely and comfortably. Other statements treat broad risk assessment across processes, incident reporting and investigations, or selecting personal protective equipment—important safety activities, but they don’t capture the focus of ergonomics on aligning work with human capabilities to prevent injuries.