A Macroergonomic Approach for Improving Safety and Work Design

Abstract

Over the past few years the concept of macroergonomics has heightened our awareness of how human factors can be successfully implemented in the work place. One application of this approach addresses the importance of psychological aspects of work that contribute to safe work performance. Traditionally safety interventionists, and to some extent, human factors professionals, have focused exclusively on the physical dimensions of work. Emphasizing the psychological and organizational impacts on safety represents a broader macroergonomic approach to human factors interventions. There is evidence that this approach has merit in reducing human suffering and costs.