The study and practice of ergonomics benefits many in today's work force by providing a safer environment. Ergonomics is derived from the Greek words ergo- (work) and -nomy (science), meaning the science of work. It centers on people and their interactions with equipment and products used in the work place and everyday living. Ergonomics has allowed for advancements in the design of many products including hand tools, backpacks, tables, and chairs.

Ergonomics has led to safer work environments. For example, hydraulic tables and workbenches that are height adjustable improve work conditions for an assembly line of package handlers. These hydraulic tables can be raised and lowered, and this design enables workers to lift a package at their own comfortable height. In addition, ergonomically engineered tools, such as hammers, pliers, and scissors are contoured to fit the natural form of the arm, hand, and wrist. Such designs help keep the wrist, hand, and arm in a straight position while performing tasks with the tool. It also minimizes injury by keeping the limb in its natural form.

Ergonomics has been commended for improving existing products on today's markets such as backpacks. Recent studies have shown that large weights in backpacks are associated with chronic low back pain, misalignment of the spine, and muscle fatigue. Examples of the ergonomic modifications include S-curved shoulder straps, extra padding in the back, and patented racks. The S-curved straps conform the shoulder straps to the body while the extra padding in the back helps soften the load against the body. Rak Gear, a backpack company, offers a patented removable rack positioned inside the backpack. The rack distributes the weight of the backpack more evenly as opposed to having all of the weight centered at the bottom.

Another ergonomically designed product on the market is the refined keyboard. This new keyboard is raised higher and also has an upside-down V-slanted design. This design provides the user with the most comfortable position for the arms, wrist, and hands. It is slanted to fit smoothly with the natural curvature of the arms. The keyboard is also designed to prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). A way to better understand the functional design of the keyboard is to note the orientation of a person's hands with his arms laying along side his body. The palms of the hands are naturally directed a small degree inward. Therefore, with its upside down V-slant design, the keyboard is a smooth extension of the natural curvature of the arms. By considering the curvature of the body, this keyboard offers the user a most natural fit and feel while maintaining a safer posture for the wrists.

Ergonomic advancements have also led to the design of a chair that fits the contour and natural curvature of the human body. The ergonomically designed chair has a curved back, which easily fits with the form of the spine. Furthermore, the chair is equipped with levers beneath the seat to allowing for adjustment of the height, seat angle, and posture distances. With this design, the chair offers a range of variations for users of many different sizes. Customized chairs can even be purchased through a retailer. These chairs help improve the posture of students, employees, or anyone who sits for long periods of time.

The goal of ergonomics is to improve products for use both at home and work. Ergonomics bring safer products to the market by identifying the physical limitations and capabilities of individuals and applying them to improve existing designs. With so many new and different items on the market, ergonomics is re-shaping the work and home environment by providing products that are more comfortable and safer to use. With substantial evidence showing the decrease in work-related medical problems and the increase in safety in the workplace as a result of such ergonomically engineered products, this rising field is definitely making its impact.

Michael is a senior majoring in industrial engineering. His future plans include working within the field of ergonomics. In his spare time, Michael enjoys playing jazz and traveling.

Ergonomically Designed Products on the Market:
- Document Holders
- Monitor Trays
- Keyboard Trays & Accessories
- Armrests & Wrist Products
- Footrests
- Anti-Fatigue Mats
- Computer Mice
- Headsets & Amplifiers
- Software
- Monitor and CPU Products
- Adapters, Interface Boxes, & Cables