Computers in delivery of ergonomic technology for safety in the workplace: ErgoRisk©, an example

The computer is one of the essential tools in the delivery of ergonomic technology for achieving optimized safety at work. This article rationalizes the rightful place of computers in the hierarchy of ergonomics. Clearly, science and knowledge have the central place from which the technology flows. Harnessing discrete bits of technology into effective techniques lends us the ability to practice and apply ergonomic technology for safety. One of the most versatile and powerful media for application of these technologies is the computer. In an application sense, the computer acts as a funnel. Complex signals, involved functional relationship, and sophisticated processing using complex physiological, biomechanical, and cognitive models are systematically and accurately executed through the medium of the computer. Examples are presented to illustrate these arguments. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.