Ergonomics jobs: what are they?

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Ergonomics, or human engineering, is an applied science that coordinates the requirements of a job, its equipment, and the surrounding workplace with the capabilities of human workers, with an emphasis on safety. It is also the science of designing equipment to improve operator strength, comfort and prevent injury. Globally, there are numerous diverse jobs in the science of ergonomics, ranging from technical and scientific jobs to more people-oriented jobs. Ergonomics jobs are available in both the public and private sectors, and the education required for these jobs ranges from certifications that a person earns in a few months to doctoral degrees that take years of study.

Different companies use different terminology to name ergonomics jobs within their company. A role called Safety and Ergonomics Analyst at one company might be called Ergonomics Risk Analyst at another. The word ergonomics usually does not appear in the job title, such as safety specialist or occupational health nurse.

There are several types of ergonomics jobs that require an ergonomics certification or degree. Many industries that have historically had high injury rates, such as mining, electric power, and manufacturing companies, need employees trained in ergonomics to analyze job hazards and implement safety procedures. Some consulting firms hire ergonomics experts to consult with their clients. Employment agencies often list these jobs under scientific, technical, or management consulting services.

Managers of public places, including hospitals, colleges, universities and shopping malls, often want a person on staff with an ergonomics degree. This work typically involves analyzing the building for public safety risks, implementing a safety policy, conducting accident investigations, addressing government regulations, and maintaining records. Other ergonomics jobs in this area could include working for large companies that provide ergonomists to companies by the hour. An ergonomist typically provides ergonomics assessments and training for a business such as an office complex, small industrial business or retail store.

People with a background in ergonomics sometimes have a second degree, which allows them to carve out a special niche for their business or job. For example, an architect might use an ergonomics degree to design safer buildings or to adapt a workplace to a specific job. Knowledge of ergonomics can help an architect adapt a living or working environment for a person with limited resources or design rehabilitation facilities. Another example is a person with a nursing degree who expands into a career in occupational health nursing.

Generally, people with an ergonomics degree may choose to work in a variety of environments that require different skills. Ergonomics jobs are typically divided into two distinct branches of work: workplace safety and device, product, or equipment design. The International Space Station and space shuttles are ergonomically designed with occupant safety in mind, as are submarines and ships. Ergonomists often design or study the devices in these vehicles.

Ergonomics jobs may include studying ergonomics, such as teachers, human factoring, or writers who specialize in the field of ergonomics. As the field of ergonomics is always changing, people often need to be informed of these changes. Human resource managers, union leaders and others who deal with people in their workplace often want to know how ergonomics can improve the performance and safety of their workers. Generally, ergonomics jobs in the field of communications offer many career opportunities.

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