What is Ergonomics?

The word Ergonomics derives from the Greek “Ergon” (which means work) and “nomos” (which means norms, rules and laws), that is, Ergonomics understands the relation of norms to work.

Ergonomics is related to the adaptation of work to aspects related to the workspace, such as: furniture, seats, lighting, air conditioning, organizational aspects, layouts, among others.

However, one of the main concepts of Ergonomics is related to adapting work to people’s needs. Therefore, looking at people and their physical, cognitive and emotional needs is one of the main contributions of this multidisciplinary science, focused on the interface between man and his work environment.

A little of history

The Polish researcher Wojciech Jastrzebowski, was one of the precursors of the concepts of Ergonomics, which date from the year 1857, but it was mainly after the Second World War, that the concepts of Ergonomics helped to improve working conditions. In 1959, the “International Ergonomics Association” (IEA) was founded, defined as the International Ergonomics Association. In 1983, the Brazilian Ergonomics Association (ABERGO) was founded.

ABERGO presents an Ergonomist Certification Program recognized internationally by the IEA, thus making the Brazilian Ergonomist certified and internationally recognized. Since 2018, it is the first Latin American System to have this International endorsement, alongside other four Ergonomist Accreditation systems endorsed by the IEA: the BCPE of the United States of America, the CREE of the European Community, that of the Japanese Ergonomics Society, and the New Zeland Ergonomics Society.

 

 

Ergonomics and Health

Ergonomics is a multidisciplinary science related to health, well-being and quality of life. In this way, the products and environments that are designed with Ergonomics, seek to meet the needs of users, generating more health, productivity and increasing the satisfaction of people in their activities.

Therefore, prioritizing dynamic environments and products with intuitive adjustment options, coatings and characteristics associated with durability and resistance, are paramount in the work environment. Environments and products that do not consider Ergonomics can act as agents of discomfort, pain and low productivity. Thus, it is necessary to analyze aspects related to Ergonomics, as its absence can generate permanent damage.

Where is Ergonomics at Cavaletti?

Ergonomics is part of Cavaletti’s organizational culture. Since 2003, the Company has had a Program for employees, as it understands that Ergonomics is in people, and its existence, from conception to the final product, is essential.

The products, according to their specific particularities, follow the guidelines set out in NR 17 (Regulatory Norm 17), with Product Ergonomic Analysis issued by a Senior Ergonomist, Certified by the Brazilian Ergonomics Association (ABERGO).

Main ergonomic features of our products

Neutral posture is recommended, as it will be closer to the physiology of the human body, in this sense it is important to evaluate the characteristics of your chair.

Regulations

Easily accessible and intuitive settings that favor a neutral posture, as it will be closer to the physiology of the human body.

Support

  • Backrest: backrest profile based on the curvatures of the spine, with the possibility of height and depth adjustment in order to support and respect the spine of each user. Adjusting the height and depth of the backrest also allows for greater freedom of movement, fully adapting the posture, get used to using them.
  • Arm Support: they assist in the support function in order to relieve tension on shoulders and cervical spine, its use must be observed for functions where there is freedom and space for movement.
  • The chair must be adjusted so that the feet are resting on the floor, if this is not possible, the footrest should be used.

Base

Stability based on five feet: castors that allow the movement and stability necessary to support the load of your body;

  • Height-adjustable seat: to suit different heights;
  • Seat Lining Surface: Flat to facilitate circulation;
  • Front Seat Edge: Rounded to facilitate circulation.

General orientations

1

Avoid crossing your legs when sitting;

2

Alternate your posture and move whenever possible;

3

Take short breaks and stretches, directed by trained professionals during your workday;

4

Keep your objects within range;

5

Check that there is no object that can hinder your approach to your workstation;

6

Consider ergonomic aspects in your work environment, including table, lighting, ventilation, position and area of reach of objects;

7

Seek guidance if you have any questions about the product’s functionality;

8

Remember: the product and the environment should suit you and not the other way around.

Download the Use, Conservation and Ergonomics Manual