Workplace Ergonomics and Facility Layout
Distribution Criteria for Flexibility
Designed with flexible criteria to predict and adapt to future technology changes and other factors.
Principle of Total Integration
Harmonizes space needs and worker demands with production, coordinating all factors for improved safety, efficiency, and control.
Principle of Safety and Comfort
Considers environmental factors (light, humidity, temperature, contaminants) and establishes acceptable thresholds for both normal operations and maintenance activities.
Principle of Least Distance Traveled
Minimizes material travel distance between operations to reduce accident risk.
Symptoms of Inefficient Layout
- Repeated accidents at specific points
- Long material travel distances
- Intersecting material flow
- Material deposits in transit zones
- Equipment loss and damage
- Missed deadlines
Consequences of Inappropriate Chair Use
- Seat Too High: Excessive thigh compression, restricted blood flow, unstable foot position.
- Seat Too Low: Extended legs, lack of stability, poor torso support.
- Excessive Seat Depth: Pressure behind the knees, discomfort, and circulatory issues.
- Limited Seat Depth: Insufficient thigh support, unbalanced position.
Work Plan Height for Upright Posture
The work plan should be slightly below elbow height (5-10 cm). For women, this is typically 85-95 cm, and for men, 95-105 cm.
Types of Distribution of Equipment and Personnel (DEP)
Functional or Process-Based DEP
Groups similar machines to perform the same task. Suitable for diverse products in smaller quantities.
Linear or Product-Based DEP
Organizes sites along the production line. Efficient for large quantities of a limited product range.
Fixed Main Component DEP
Workers move around a stationary main component (e.g., construction, shipbuilding).
Cell-Based or Teamwork DEP
Each cell performs multiple operations for a single product. Benefits include flexible production, reduced work-in-progress stock, and enhanced teamwork.
Basic Criteria for Area Distribution
- Principle of Importance: Prioritize accessibility for essential elements.
- Principle of Frequency of Use: Frequently used items should be readily accessible.
- Principle of Operation: Group items with similar functions.
- Principle of Sequence of Use: Place components according to their frequency of use.
Seat Design
Height: Adjustable (380-500 mm) or fixed for the 5th percentile, with footrests for taller users.
Depth: Adjustable (380-420 mm) to accommodate backrest use without leg pressure.
Backrest: Adjustable height and tilt, lumbar support, weight distribution across buttocks.
Width: Designed for the 95th percentile (400-450 mm).
Padding: 20 mm thick foam.
Armrests: 60-100 mm wide.
Stability: Five-leg base with wheels for mobility.
Leg Length: At least equal to seat length (380-450 mm).