Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) SLC Practice Exam

What is the main focus of ergonomics?

1. Reducing workplace injuries

2. Improving productivity

3. Promoting safety and comfort by adapting the environment

4. Enhancing communication efficiency

The correct answer is: Promoting safety and comfort by adapting the environment

The main focus of ergonomics is to promote safety and comfort by adapting the environment to fit the needs of the worker. This discipline seeks to design workspaces, tools, and tasks in a way that enhances human performance while minimizing the risk of injury. By focusing on the interaction between the worker and their environment, ergonomics aims to create a more comfortable and efficient workspace which can lead to greater job satisfaction and improved performance. The consideration of safety and comfort is essential, as a well-designed environment can prevent strain and overexertion, common causes of workplace injuries. Adaptations may include ergonomic furniture, appropriate tool design, or alterations to work processes, which ultimately contribute to both the health of employees and the efficiency of the organization as a whole. While reducing injuries, improving productivity, and enhancing communication are important aspects of workplace effectiveness, the central premise of ergonomics is about creating a harmonious alignment between the worker and the work environment to ensure safety and comfort.