Main differences between Ergonomics and Anthropometry

What is ergonomics?

Ergonomics is the scientific study of the relationship between human beings and their work environment . It focuses on designing and adapting elements of the work environment to fit people's physical and mental capabilities and limitations. Its goal is to improve the efficiency , safety, well-being and comfort of workers , while minimizing the risks of occupational injuries or illnesses. It deals with understanding the physical and cognitive characteristics of human beings and applying that knowledge to the design of tools, equipment, furniture, systems and healthy work spaces . Ergonomics is applicable to a wide variety of work environments, including offices, factories, hospitals or transportation, among many others.

What is anthropometry?

Anthropometry is a branch of physical anthropology that deals with measuring and studying the dimensions and proportions of the human body . It is based on the collection of data and studies the precise measurements of the different parts of the body: height , weight, span, width and length . After studying and interpreting the anthropometric data and measurements, these data are used for the design of products, equipment and spaces adaptable to the dimensions and physical characteristics of the users. Thus, anthropometry contributes to the creation of ergonomically suitable and safe work environments . To carry out these measurements, anthropometry uses specific instruments, such as measuring tapes, calipers or 3D scanners. Anthropometry has applications in various fields such as medicine, design, social sciences or industrial design. The latter combines both concepts, introducing anthropometry into ergonomics.

Differences between ergonomics and anthropometry

Although both complement each other, there are some differences between the concepts of ergonomics and anthropometry.

• Approach. Although both focus on the study of the relationship between human beings and their environment, their approach is different. Ergonomics is based on the adaptation of the environment to the physical and mental capabilities and limitations of people. Anthropometry , on the other hand , focuses on the study and measurement of the proportions of the human body, to understand how they can vary and provide anthropometric data for the design of spaces.
• Scope . Ergonomics covers a broader field . It includes physical, mental and organizational aspects . Anthropometry , on the other hand , focuses exclusively on the study and measurement of body dimensions .
• Application . The areas of application are also different. Ergonomics is applied to a wider variety of work environments such as offices, factories, hospitals or transport, among others . Anthropometry , on the other hand, is mainly used in the design of products, spaces and clothing , with the aim of adapting them to the dimensions and physical characteristics of the human body.

Importance of ergonomics and anthropometry

The importance of both disciplines lies in their contribution to the creation of safe and healthy work environments. Some of their benefits are:

• Achieving safe and healthy work environments.
• Enhance worker comfort.
• Strengthen productivity and efficiency in the work environment.
• Reduction of costs associated with injuries or sick leave.
• Design of products and spaces adapted to the characteristics of workers
• Improve user experience.

Practical examples in offices and workspaces

In practical terms, these are some examples of how each of the concepts can be applied in the workplace , in offices and workspaces. Ergonomics :

• Ergonomic chairs,
• Adjustable desks
• Correct placement of monitors and screens
• Ergonomic keyboard and mouse
• Adequate lighting
• Workstation design
• Organizing the workspace
• Control breaks and regular stretching.
• Desk height

Anthropometry :

• Desk height
• Definition of legroom
• Adjusting the height of the seats
• Seat space
• Definition of space and inclination of the armrests
• Height of filing cabinets or shelves.