Development of Scientific Communication in the Field of Ergonomics

To maximize the societal contribution of human factors and ergonomics (HFE), the practice of science communication, which involves sharing scientific knowledge with the public, is meaningful. For instance, sharing insights from HFE with citizens in advance can help mitigate risks and damage during natural or CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive) disasters. This study aims to deepen the understanding of science communication within HFE, based on discussions from the Science Communication Research Committee of the Japan Human Factors and Ergonomics Society in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and to outline future prospects. Through the group's discussions and a review of prior research, the study presents various forms of science communication, examples within the field of HFE, and identifies key challenges for the future.