Ergonomics Research
Our team has been involved in a range of studies, applying knowledge of ergonomics to real world problems. The Ergonomics Research at IOM is led by Dr. Richard Graveling. Ergonomics is an applied science that investigates the interaction between people and their work environment, equipment, furniture and organisation. The primary aim is to reduce injury and ill health relating to work.
IOM research is focussed on providing appropriate and practical solutions to issues facing employers and industry. Much of our research has informed government policy and helped set standards.
Our expertise lies particularly in the areas of:
- musculoskeletal disorders
- manual handling
- health and safety ergonomics
- users interaction with their environment, furniture and equipment
- human factors issues associated with the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- heat stress
Some current and recent projects include:
| Study | Sponsor |
|---|---|
| The health, safety and health promotion needs of older workers: building an evidence base for a diverse workforce | IOSH |
| British Occupational Health Research Foundation | |
| Heat strain during fire-fighting training operations | Home Office and Health & Safety Executive |
| Physiological monitoring of heat stress in UK coal mines | Industry and Health & Safety Executive |
| Development of a draft British Standard on the assessment of heat strain for workers wearing PPE | Dept. of Trade and Industry |
| Ergonomic and epidemiological factors associated with symptoms of upper limb disorders in keyboard operators | Health & Safety Executive |
The following report: Graveling RA, Melrose AS, Hanson MA. The principles of good manual handling: achieving a consensus (RR097/2003) is available from the HSE website: http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrhtm/rr097.htm