Ergonomics in Agriculture

Unit 1

Ergonomics

Ergonomics

cognitive interaction

injury

to grip

dollies

detachable display

fatigue

awkward posture

Repetitive Strain Injuries

carpal tunnel syndrome

ambient light

ергономіка

когнітивна взаємодія

травма

захоплювати

візки

дисплей, що від’єднується

втома

незручне положення

деформаційні травми, що повторюються

тунельний синдром зап’ястя

навколишнє світло

Ergonomics in Agriculture

While people have been practicing agriculture since the dawn of time, the evolution of mechanized agriculture is a phenomenon of the last 200 years. The practice of ergonomics as a science has grown in the same time period. Coming from the Greek words ergon (meaning work) and nomos (natural laws), the International Ergonomics Association defines ergonomics as the scientific discipline concerned with the understanding of interactions among humans and other elements of a system. It can relate to physical interaction, such as with tools, machines, and the environment, or cognitive interaction, such as skilled knowledge, stress, and decision making.

Although, agriculture has become more mechanized in the last century, there are still many small farm operations where planting and harvesting activities are done by hand-a-person’s hand. Stooping, bending, lifting, twisting, kneeling, forceful gripping, carrying, vibrating equipment/machinery and long periods of repetitive motion can all lead to musculoskeletal injuries. Musculoskeletal injuries from agricultural work can result in pain in the back, neck and shoulders, as well as other areas of the body. The study of Ergonomics aims to find the best fit between the worker and the work conditions.

A wide range of ergonomically designed tools are available to make agricultural work more comfortable. A well organized and ergonomically designed work station can improve the health and well-being of workers. Performing brief strengthening and stretching exercises can also help prevent injuries. The following guidelines from Simple Solutions: Ergonomics for Farm Workers can help create a more comfortable and productive work environment.