The Role of Physical Ergonomics in Litigation

The primary goal of the ergonomist is to develop systems and products that increase productivity, function intuitively, and minimize the user’s risk of injury and illness. Injuries occur when a system or product does not fit or was not designed for the capabilities of the user. The physical ergonomist plays an important role in litigation in reducing the risk of large damages or settlements through improved design. This article outlines three cases that demonstrate how a physical ergonomist uses established methods and techniques to analyze litigation cases.