Ergonomics principles in the design of work
systems
(ISO 6385:2016, IDT)
(First revision)
This International Standard establishes the fundamental principles of ergonomics as basic guidelines
for the design of work systems and defines relevant basic terms. It describes an integrated approach
to the design of work systems, where ergonomists will cooperate with others involved in the design.
with attention to the human, the social and the technical requirements in a balanced manner during the
design process.
Users of this International Standard will include executives, managers, workers (and their
representatives, when appropriate) and professionals, such as ergonomists, project managers and
designers who are involved in the design or redesign of work systems. Those who use this International
Standard can find a general knowledge of ergonomics (human factors),engineering, design, quality and
project management helpful.
The term "work system" in this International Standard is used to indicate a large variety of working
situations, including permanent and flexible work places. The intention of this International Standard is
to assist in the improvement, redesign or change of work systems. Work systems involve combinations
of workers and equipment, within a given space and environment, and the interactions between these
components within a work organization. Work systems vary in complexity and characteristics for
example, the use of temporary work systems. Some examples of work systems in different areas are the
following:
- Production, eg: machine operator and machine, worker and assembly line.
- Transportation, eg: driver and car or lorry, personnel in an airport.
- Support, e.g. maintenance technician with work equipment;
- Commercial, eg: office worker with workstation, mobile worker with a tablet computer, cook in a
restaurant kitchen;
- Other areas like health care, teaching and training.
The observance of ergonomic principles applies to all phases throughout the life cycle of the work system
from conception through development, realization and implementation, utilization, maintenance and
support to decommissioning.
The systems approach in this International Standard gives guidance to the users of this International
Standard in existing and new situations.
The definitions and ergonomic principles specified in this International Standard apply to the design
of optimal working conditions with regard to human well being, safety and health, including the
development of existing skills and the acquisition of new ones, while taking into account technological
and economic effectiveness and efficiency.
The principles in this International Standard are applicable to many other human activities, eg: in the
design of products for domestic and leisure activities. A more general description of the principles in
this International Standard can be found in ISO 26800.
NOTE : This International Standard is considered to be the core ergonomic standard for work systems from
which many others on specific issues are derived.
Note : Although elements of the system can be the same, this International Standard is not intended to be
applied to systems used in a non-work context, (eg: the use of a vehicle for private purposes).
