Ergonomics Today™

Ergonomist Recommends Close Attention to Kid’s Computer Setup

August 17, 2007
It’s back-to-school time in North America. An ergonomist advises on posture and computer setup for children in the classroom and at home.

Study: In the Workplace, It’s the Tyrants Who Prosper

August 13, 2007
It appears domineering ways are anything but a handicap in the workplace.

Sleep Hormone Serotonin Found to be Lower in Rotating Shift Workers

August 10, 2007
A study from Argentina helps explain why rotating shift workers have a hard time getting enough sleep.

Device for Reading e-books Passes a Beach Test

August 6, 2007
At least one reader likes his e-book device, but sales figures suggest consumers haven't yet been seduced by the technology.

New Formula Promises More Comfort and Curviness for Women

August 3, 2007
A Hong Kong ergonomics team has developed a formula for building a better bra.

Appeals Court Repeals Hours Rule for Long Haul Truckers

July 30, 2007
Another ruling against trucking industry is designed to keep tired truckers off the US highways.

Wheeled Briefcases – “Cabooses” that Ease the Burden

July 27, 2007
An ergonomics expert sees rolling briefcases as an answer to the musculoskeletal disorders that dog workers obliged to tote a laptop and paperwork.

Obituary: Cheryl Lynn Bennett Brought Ergonomics to Children and Schools

July 24, 2007
Cheryl Lynn Bennett helped raise national awareness of the importance of ergonomics for children, particularly in schools. She died at 56 on July 2, 2007.

Enabling Technology Wins BusinessWeek/IDSA Design Awards

July 23, 2007
Exercise equipment, a toilet and a keyboard, all with stellar enabling qualities, won top prizes at the 2007 International Design Excellence Awards.

“Keep the Change” Program, Pangea Organics Top BusinessWeek/IDSA Business Catalyst Competition

July 20, 2007
Ergonomics and human factors evident in products honored in the 2007 Catalyst Award competition.

Study: Electronic Record-keeping Doesn’t Improve Health Care

July 16, 2007
President George W. Bush wants all Americans to have electronic medical records by 2014, but a new study casts doubt on their ability to deliver better health care.

Research Shows On-the-road Lifestyle is Killing Truckers

July 13, 2007
The trucking industry is beginning to wake up to the benefits of having healthy drivers

US $19 million for a Space Toilet Could be Small Price

July 9, 2007
NASA has paid Russia US $19 million for a space toilet for the International Space Station. The purchase has drawn its share of jokes. A closer look suggests they are unearned.

Researchers Study Human Impact of Switch to Mars Time – in the Arctic

July 6, 2007
The success of human exploration of Mars could hinge on human factors studies under way in the Arctic.

Triple Superbug News Could Boost Calls for Action

July 2, 2007
War talk and triple news about superbug MRSA could power-up calls for action.

WHO: Immobility Increases Risk of Blood Clots During Flight

June 29, 2007
WHO advice to travelers for preventing blood clots might be of little value to flying public

New York City Food Retailer Makes Long Queues Pay

June 25, 2007
Supermarkets shy away from the single-queue system for managing customers, a system commonly used in banks and post offices, but a food retailer in New York City is showing long lines of customers are not anything to fear.

Fresh Air Plan for Aviation Promises Ergonomic Benefits for Passengers

June 22, 2007
The Atlantic Interoperability Initiative to Reduce Emissions is all about cleaning up the skies. The potential ergonomic benefits aren’t mentioned, but are just as noteworthy.

Standard Aims to Cut Musculoskeletal Problems in Construction Industry

June 18, 2007
A standard aimed at helping to protect construction workers from musculoskeletal disorders appears set to clear its final hurdles.

Canada Launches Hand-Washing Campaign to Cut Hospital Infections

June 15, 2007
Some 8,000 to 12,000 Canadian patients die from hospital infections every year, and the authorities are trying to reform medical staff who skip the sink.