Human Factors Ergonomics in Health and Social Care

Since 2000 our rigorous and robust outputs have influenced national and international standards, as well as the commercial world for product and building design.

At least 5 people die every minute because of unsafe care (WHO, 2019.) Training in Human Factors Ergonomics as part of safety system design, incident investigation and solution development has long been recognised as important (CQC, 2018.)

Understanding Human Factors Ergonomics is a key element of building a better patient safety system. We take a systems approach to investigating and resolving challenges, by understanding what people can do individually, in teams and as part of larger systems and organisations, focusing on dual outcomes of optimising system performance and improving human wellbeing. Our methods are design-driven to support good performance and prevent poor outcomes, rather than promoting safety by demanding behavioural modification of the people within the system, processes, equipment etc.