Usability of portable fire extinguisher: Perspectives of ergonomics and intuitive use

Abstract

The present study aims to explore the usage of portable fire extinguisher's usability from the interaction with non-specialists in emergency context. Has been noticed an absence of Brazil's proper education regarding procedures for fires, evidencing the need for portable fire extinguishers to induce intuitive usage and to improve the usability by users. Were also explored ergonomic factors, such as effort to complete the task and user's perception of discomfort. In order to simulate the emergency context, a usability test was applied with addition stress stimuli. The study allows to conclude that the portable fire extinguisher evaluated present a low level of intuitive use induction, revealing the need to state better standards from Brazilian authorities towards the label and handles of this product. This paper presents the importance of evaluating ergonomic and intuitive factors related to products required on emergency contexts. This study conducted in Brazil is the starting point for other research that explore the theme and aim to improve these devices, assisting designers to take into account aspects of intuitive use and ergonomic principles during the configuration of industrial products. © 2013 Springer-Verlag.