Ergonomic Environments

General Description:

This module explores how various workplace ambiances (environments) affect workers’ physical and mental well-being. It combines theoretical knowledge, field observation, and ergonomic analysis to help future HSE professionals assess and optimize working conditions.

Students will learn to identify and measure environmental factors (temperature, noise, light, vibration, air quality) and to propose corrective or preventive ergonomic solutions to promote comfort, efficiency, and long-term health.

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this module, students will be able to:

  1. Identify and describe the main types of workplace ambiances.

  2. Evaluate environmental factors affecting worker health and performance.

  3. Apply ergonomic principles to improve workplace conditions.

  4. Propose preventive and corrective actions in line with safety standards.

  5. Integrate well-being and ergonomics into workplace design and organization.

Course Outline (10 Sessions):

Session Theme Key Topics
1 Introduction to Ergonomic Ambiances Concepts, goals, classification, importance of ergonomic design
2 Thermal Ambiance Heat/cold effects, comfort indices (PMV, PPD, WBGT), prevention
3 Lighting Ambiance Natural and artificial light, visual fatigue, lighting norms
4 Sound Ambiance Noise levels, exposure, hearing risks, acoustic treatment
5 Vibratory Ambiance Whole-body and hand-arm vibrations, physiological effects, control
6 Chemical Ambiance / Air Quality Indoor pollutants, ventilation, monitoring tools
7 Organizational & Psychosocial Ambiance Stress, workload, motivation, teamwork, work organization
8 Postural & Physical Ergonomics Work posture, workstation design, prevention of musculoskeletal disorders
9 Cognitive Ambiance Mental workload, attention, errors, ergonomic design of interfaces
10 Sustainable Ergonomic Design Integrating ergonomics into workplace and equipment design, new technologies

Pedagogical Methods:

  • Lectures and multimedia presentations

  • Case studies and workplace analysis

  • Field measurement and observation

  • Group discussions and ergonomic redesign projects

Assessment:

  • Continuous assessment (assignments, participation) – 40%

  • Final written or oral exam – 40%

  • Practical or case study report – 20%

Skills Developed:

✅ Risk identification and environmental assessment
✅ Ergonomic analysis and corrective proposal
✅ Use of measurement tools and comfort indices
✅ Integration of prevention and well-being strategies
✅ Communication of ergonomic solutions to multidisciplinary teams