Ergonomics & Human Factors Engineering Flashcards

What is the primary goal of ergonomics in industrial engineering?

Answer: Fitting the work environment to the capabilities and limitations of the worker

Ergonomics aims to design work systems, tools, and environments that match human capabilities to reduce injury risk and improve efficiency.

Which type of musculoskeletal disorder is most commonly associated with repetitive motions on assembly lines?

Answer: Cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs)

Cumulative trauma disorders develop gradually from repeated micro-injuries caused by repetitive motions, awkward postures, or excessive force.

What anthropometric measure is most commonly used to design workstation heights?

Answer: Elbow height in standing position

Elbow height in the standing position is the primary reference for setting work surface heights to minimize shoulder and back strain.

The NIOSH lifting equation provides a recommended weight limit (RWL) based on which set of task variables?

Answer: Horizontal distance, vertical height, travel distance, asymmetry, frequency, and coupling

The NIOSH equation uses six task factors—horizontal distance, vertical height, vertical travel, asymmetry angle, lift frequency, and hand-to-object coupling—to calculate the RWL.

What does a 5th percentile design approach mean in ergonomics?

Answer: The design is based on the smallest 5% of the target population to ensure reach requirements are met

Designing to the 5th percentile for reach-critical dimensions ensures that even the smallest users can access controls or reach work objects.

Which ergonomic analysis tool uses a checklist to score posture risk based on neck, trunk, arm, and wrist positions?

Answer: RULA (Rapid Upper Limb Assessment)

RULA assigns scores to upper body postures and generates an action level indicating the urgency of ergonomic intervention.