Human Factors and Ergonomics In Healthcare: Targeting MSDs Prevention for Safer, Efficient Care

Proceedings of the 7th Bangladeshi International Conference on Industrial Engineering and Operations Management, Dhaka, Bangladesh, December 21-22, 2024 Human Factors & Ergonomics In Healthcare: Targeting MSDs Prevention for Safer, Efficient Care Ridika Islam, Tunazzina Binta Mostofa, Quazi Monjur E-Elahi Department of Mechanical and Production Engineering Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology (AUST) Dhaka, Bangladesh Abstract Over the past decade, integrating Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) into healthcare has become crucial for improving the interactions between healthcare workers and their environments. The main goal is to enhance safety, efficiency, and overall well-being. While completely eliminating human factors in healthcare is challenging due to the complexity of tasks, their negative impact can be reduced through effective risk management and task optimization. This paper examines key HFE strategies, emphasizing the development of solutions to mitigate risk factors and implement comprehensive healthcare management systems. A major focus of these strategies is identifying high-risk jobs in healthcare that contribute to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among workers. By prioritizing these roles and applying ergonomic improvements, the risk of MSDs can be significantly reduced, improving worker safety and job satisfaction. Additionally, these strategies aim to prevent the future development of MSDs by embedding ergonomic principles into job design from the outset. Implementing HFE strategies benefits both healthcare workers and patients. By fostering long-term partnerships, healthcare institutions can create an environment where safety is prioritized, worker well-being is enhanced, and cost-effectiveness is achieved. This holistic approach not only improves the quality of care but also strengthens the sustainability and resilience of the healthcare system. The paper advocates for a comprehensive approach to HFE, which addresses both immediate risks and long-term benefits, ensuring that healthcare environments are optimized for both workers’ health and patient safety. Keywords Human Factors & Ergonomics (HFE), Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs), Healthcare, Risk Management, Ergonomic Improvement. Biographies Ridika Islam is an undergraduate student of Industrial and Production Engineering (IPE) under the Department of Mechanical and Production Engineering (MPE) at the Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology (AUST). Her research interests include Supply Chain Management, Blockchain Development, Industry 4.0, Web 3.0, and Lean Manufacturing. In addition to her research pursuits, she demonstrates a keen enthusiasm for digital marketing, Python programming. She has proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel. She currently holds the position of Assistant Director of Newsletter and Publication for the IEOM Society AUST Student Chapter. Furthermore,she serves as a Sub-Executive of the AUST Research and Publication Club. Tunazzina Binta Mostafa is an undergraduate student of Industrial and Production Engineering under the Department of Mechanical and Production Engineering at Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology. Her research interests include Supply Chain Management, Human Factors and Ergonomics, Blockchain Development, Industry 4.0 and Advanced Manufacturing Process. In addition to her research pursuits, she demonstrates a passion in her storytelling and has a zeal for learning new things to increase her adaptability. She has proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel. She currently holds the position of Sub-Executive for AUST Innovation and Design club, supporting her core wing the Creative Content Writing Team. Quazi Monjur E-Elahi is a graduate student of Industrial and Production Engineering (IPE) under the Department of Mechanical and Production Engineering (MPE) at the Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology (AUST). His research interests include the area of Industrial Management, Engineering Management,Supply Chain Management, Quality Assurance & Control, Production Planning and Control, Project & Quality Management, Productivity Engineering, Industrial & Business Management, Advanced Material Processes, Lean Manufacturing, Technology Management and Industry 4.0. He has vast experience in content writing and research, documentation management process, content research, team management. He has proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel. He is also focused in the research of the aerospace industry and wants to work within such an industry. He also participated in a multiple number of engineering competitions showcasing his ability to solve complex problems and work collaboratively in a team with effective leadership. He was also the former Vice President of IEOM Society AUST Student Chapter. He was also the former Chief Advisor & President of Josephite Chess Club. Furthermore, he worked at Augmedix Bangladesh, across multiple departments during his tenure, most notably as a Project Coordinator. © IEOM Society International