Interactive ergonomic risk mapping: a practical approach for visual management of workplace ergonomics

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health and Safety
• Ergonomics
• Human Factors Engineering

Background:

• Growing need for advanced ergonomic risk management tools.
• Importance of stakeholder commitment in creating safe work environments.
• Limitations of current methods in dynamic workplace contexts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a novel visualization tool for ergonomic practices.
• To introduce the interactive ergonomic risk mapping (intERM) methodology.
• To enhance proactive ergonomic risk management and stakeholder engagement.

Main Methods:

• Development of a five-step interactive ergonomic risk mapping (intERM) methodology.
• Integration of company strategic vision into the methodology.
• Accommodation of external contextual changes (policy, economic, technological).
• Demonstration using a real-life case study.

Main Results:

• Successful implementation of the intERM methodology in a practical setting.
• Creation of a visual and interactive tool for ergonomic risk assessment.
• Demonstrated ability to promptly identify and react to ergonomic risks.
• Anticipation of changes to mitigate ergonomic risks effectively.

Conclusions:

• The intERM methodology provides a systematic and practical approach to ergonomic risk management.
• The visualization tool fosters company-wide awareness and stakeholder ownership.
• Enhanced engagement and proactive risk reduction are key outcomes.
• The tool supports adaptation to evolving workplace dynamics.