Integrating ergonomic principles into new occupational systems may help businesses develop processes that do not exceed worker capabilities and limitations.

Jobs and tasks that conform to worker capabilities and limitations may be performed more efficiently, safely, and consistently than those that do not.

The application of ergonomic principles to the processes involved in occupational systems may help avoid system failures and inefficiencies.

The integration of ergonomic principles at the earliest stages of process concept and design may facilitate appropriate design, layout, and allocation of resources and may reduce or eliminate the necessity for later redesign that could have been foreseen.

Designing jobs that fit the capabilities of larger population segments may increase an organization’accessibility to the available labor pool.

The integration of ergonomic principles into occupational systems may increase profit by lowering direct and indirect costs associated with preventable losses, injuries, and illnesses.

Appendix X1 contains a list of reference materials that may be useful in particular applications. All appendixes are nonmandatory.

FIG. 1 Getting Started

1.1 This guide is intended to assist in the integration of ergonomic principles into the design and planning of new occupational systems from the earliest design stages through implementation. Doing so may reduce or eliminate the necessity for later redesign that could have been foreseen.

This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.