Ergonomics

/ˌɜːɡəˈnɒmɪks/ noun

Definition

The science of designing tools, workspaces, and equipment to fit how people's bodies work, making them safer and more comfortable to use.

Etymology

From Greek 'ergon' (work) and 'nomos' (law/rule), coined in 1949 by Polish scientist Wojciech Jastrzębowski. The term combines the idea of 'laws of work' to describe how to optimize human efficiency and comfort in work environments.

Kelly Says

Ergonomics is why your computer mouse has that curved shape and why airplane seats recline—engineers use science to prevent injury by matching tools to human anatomy, which saves companies billions in healthcare costs annually.

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