Developing a Methodology for a Participatory Ergonomics Evaluation Process: Human Performance and Productivity Cycle

Abstract

Applying ergonomics in an industry in a systemic way can generate benefits and cost savings, since it contributes to reduce financial losses due to injuries, accidents and absenteeism with consequent increase in productivity. The current assumption considers that managing human factors is the key to improve the performance of organizations. The objective of this paper is to present the application of the Human Performance and Productivity Cycle – HPC method developed by the Center of Innovation in Ergonomics with the support of the TNO ergonomics team. The HCP was created as a virtuous cycle that underlies five steps to achieve effective solutions in ergonomics. The method was tested in a wagon workshop of a railway industry located in Minas Gerais, Brazil. In order to reach solutions, principles of ergonomics, technical knowledge and adequate human performance were considered. The strong involvement of the workers and managers led to assertiveness in understanding the risks and proposing solutions culminating in the agile process. Co-responsibility for the successful implementation of ergonomic improvements was achieved. The framework’s validation at the wagon workshop shows that the tools and techniques should be articulated and integrated. In such way, it can support the development of an ergonomic process to manage health, safety and productivity indicators of a sustainable model of prevention.