Application of Ergonomic Principles in Solving Workplaces in Industrial Enterprises in the Slovak Republic

Abstract

The basic idea of proper workplace design is that the workplace needs to be adapted to human needs and not to be adapted to the needs of technology. At the same time, it is necessary to start from the idea that there is no reason for a person to be in pain at work. Findings from various studies point to the significant impact of work and working conditions on the occurrence of difficulties of the musculoskeletal system of employees. These difficulties occur in high times in workplaces with older equipment but also in workplaces with modern equipment. By respecting the basic ergonomic principles in the solution of workplaces, we can effectively prevent the occurrence of cumulative risk factors affecting employees and causing a decrease in work performance, painful syndromes, and the overall well-being of employees. It turns out that, in general, there is little correct information among employees about the possibilities of individual adaptation of work and working conditions at workplaces. Employees do not know the causes of their problems, which are often related to the areas of anatomy and physiology. The issue of work positions is not clearly characterized in the commonly available literature. The paper examines whether in Slovak industrial companies there are respected principles of ergonomics in workplace solutions. It also describes the consequences of non-compliance with these principles on the difficulties and health of exposed workers.