1. INTRODUCTION
Ergonomics is the study of designing equipment and devices that fit the human body, its movements,
and its cognitive abilities.
The International Ergonomics Association defines ergonomics as follows:
Ergonomics (or human factors) is the scientific discipline concerned with the understanding of
interactions among humans and other elements of a system, and the profession that applies theory,
principles, data and methods to design in order to optimize human well-being and overall system
performance.
Ergonomics is employed to fulfill the two goals of health and productivity. It is relevant in the design of
such things as safe furniture and easy-to-use interfaces to machines and equipment. Proper
ergonomic design is necessary to prevent repetitive strain injuries, which can develop over time and
can lead to long-term disability.

2. Overview
Ergonomics is concerned with the ‘fit’ between computers and their technological robots and
environments. It takes account of the user's capabilities and limitations in seeking to ensure that
tasks, equipment, information and the environment suit each user.
To assess the fit between a person and the used technology, ergonomists consider the job (activity)
being done and the demands on the user; the equipment used (its size, shape, and how appropriate it
is for the task), and the information used (how it is presented, accessed, and changed). Ergonomics
draws on many disciplines in its study of humans and their environments,
includinganthropometry, biomechanics, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, industrial
design, kinesiology, physiology and psychology.
Typically, an ergonomist will have a BA or BS or BD in Psychology, Industrial/Mechanical Engineering
or Industrial Design or Health Sciences, and usually an MA, MS or PhD in a related discipline. Many
universities offer Master of Science degrees in Ergonomics, while some offer Master of Ergonomics or
Master of Human Factors degrees. In the 2000s, occupational therapists have been moving into the
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field of ergonomics and the field has been heralded as one of the top ten emerging practice areas.
According to the International Ergonomics Association
 Physical ergonomics: is concerned with human anatomical, and some of the anthropometric,
physiological and bio mechanical characteristics as they relate to physical activity.
 Cognitive ergonomics: is concerned with mental processes, such as perception, memory,
reasoning, and motor response, as they affect interactions among humans and other elements of
a system. (Relevant topics include mental workload, decision-making, skilled performance,
human-computer interaction, human reliability, work stress and training as these may relate to
human-system and Human-Computer Interaction design.)
 Organizational ergonomics: is concerned with the optimization of socio technical systems,
including their organizational structures, policies, and processes.(Relevant topics include
communication, crew resource management, work design, design of working times,
teamwork, participatory design, community ergonomics, cooperative work, new work programs,
virtual organizations, telework, and quality management.)

3. Applications
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More than twenty technical subgroups within the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES)
indicate the range of applications for ergonomics. Human factors engineering continues to be
successfully applied in the fields of aerospace, aging, health care, IT, product design, transportation,
training, nuclear and virtual environments, among others. Kim Vicente, a University of Toronto
Professor of Ergonomics, argues that the nuclear disaster in Chernobyl is attributable to plant
designers not paying enough attention to human factors. "The operators were trained but the
complexity of the reactor and the control panels nevertheless outstripped their ability to grasp what
they were seeing [during the prelude to the disaster]."
Physical ergonomics is important in the medical field, particularly to those diagnosed with
physiological ailments or disorders such as arthritis (both chronic and temporary) or carpal tunnel
syndrome. Pressure that is insignificant or imperceptible to those unaffected by these disorders may
be very painful, or render a device unusable, for those who are. Many ergonomically designed
products are also used or recommended to treat or prevent such disorders, and to treat pressure-
related chronic pain.
Human factors issues arise in simple systems and consumer products as well. Some examples
include cellular telephones and other hand held devices that continue to shrink yet grow more
complex (a phenomenon referred to as "creeping featurism"), millions of VCRs blinking "12:00" across
the world because very few people can figure out how to program them, or alarm clocks that allow
sleepy users to inadvertently turn off the alarm when they mean to hit 'snooze'. A user-centered
design (UCD), also known as a systems approach or the usability engineering life cycle aims to
improve the user-system.

4. Ergonomics in the workplace
Outside of the discipline itself, the term 'ergonomics' is generally used to refer to physical ergonomics
as it relates to the workplace (as in for example ergonomic chairs and keyboards). Ergonomics in the
workplace has to do largely with the safety of employees, both long and short-term. Ergonomics can
help reduce costs by improving safety. This would decrease the money paid out in workers’
compensation. For example, over five million workers sustain overextension injuries per year.
Through ergonomics, workplaces can be designed so that workers do not have to overextend
themselves and the manufacturing industry could save billions in workers’ compensation.
Workplaces may either take the reactive or proactive approach when applying ergonomics practices.
Reactive ergonomics is when something needs to be fixed, and corrective action is taken. Proactive
ergonomics is the process of seeking areas that could be improved and fixing the issues before they
become a large problem. Problems may be fixed through equipment design, task design, or
environmental design. Equipment design changes the actual, physical devices used by people. Task
design changes what people do with the equipment. Environmental design changes the environment
in which people work, but not the physical equipment they use.

5. SEWING ROOM SETUP
FOR HEALTHY SEWING
Setting up a sewing floor ergonomically is of paramount importance in regard to physical
well-being. Sewing, cutting and ironing in positions that tax your posture lead to fatigue,
muscle pain, and chronic or serious conditions of the spine. Just as you measure and adjust a
pattern to make a garment fit, so should you measure to find the proper heights for your
sewing table, cutting table and ironing board.
Today, corporate work spaces are ergonomically designed, which simply means body-
friendly. Millions of dollars are spent each year on repetitive motion injuries, forcing
companies to address the comfort and health of their workers. Ergonomics are very important
when it comes to sewing since poor posture and awkward positions will result in early fatigue
and pain in the shoulders, neck and back. The four areas to be considered in the sewing room
are your chair, sewing table or cabinet, cutting table and ironing board. Proper lighting is also
important and will be addressed in another guideline.
FACTORS EFFECTING FOR HEALTHY SEWING ROOM
The right chair
Sewing chairs need to be adjustable in height and have good back support. You should be
able to sit directly in front of the machine needle and sit with your feet flat on the floor. If
you are bending your back when you sew, your chair height is too high. Chairs that swivel
and have rollers add convenience.
First, sit all the way back in the chair with your back against the chair back. Do not sit on the
edge of the seat. Sitting improperly can cause myriad health problems ranging from poor leg
circulation to upper back, neck, shoulder and hand pain.

6. A good chair has the following features:
Pneumatic Seat Lift: This enables the seat height to be adjusted to accommodate the length
of the legs. A good chair will have a warranty on the pneumatic lift and will not break down
in a year.
Padded,Articulating,Waterfall Seat: Articulating means that the seat can be tilted to be
level or to slant down in the front. A waterfall seat curves down at the front edge (behind
your knees), reducing the pressure on the back of the leg, which impedes circulation. Be sure
to sit in a chair before purchasing it. If the chair’s seat is too deep from front to back, the seat
will cut into the back of the legs and impede circulation. If it is too shallow, it won’t provide
enough support.
Adjustable, Soft Armrests: Armrests support the weight of the arms, relieving the shoulders
of undo stress. Again, sit in the chair and adjust the armrests to fit. If the armrests are set too
wide, or too close for your comfort, and the armrest width is not adjustable, the chair does not
fit you.
Lumbar Support: A good chair will have an adjustable back with lumbar curve. The chair’s
back should raise and lower, so you can adjust it to fit the curve of your back. Sitting in the
Chair When sitting, your knees should be slightly lower than your hips. Your seat and hips
should be fully “in” the chair with your back against the back of the chair. Position your legs
out in front of you at a comfortable angle with your feet touching the floor. If your sewing
table height is not adjustable and the chair is, you may need to raise the chair to fit the table and
put a footrest under the chair to support your legs
Full Spectrum Lighting
Full spectrum lighting is creating a buzz in the sewing community. It is the best simulation of
daylight available, reducing eye fatigue. It is also known as true color lighting because it is
true clear light which does not distort color.

7. Cutting Surface Size
Your cutting table or surface should be at least 30 inches wide and 60 inches long. The
cutting table should be accessible from both sides.
Stools
Stools are great for working at higher surfaces, such as ironing boards and the cutting table.
To get the right height, use an adjustable stool or buy one with wooden legs and cut to the
right height for you.
Hanging Area
You will need a place to hang clothing. Whether a bar or hooks, it needs to be about 70
inches off the floor so full length garments can hang freely.
Floors
Consider the pros and cons of different floors: care, wear and tear, comfort, and noise level.
Carpeting is comfortable and quiet, however, pins are easily lost in carpeting and threads are
hard to pick up. Hard surfaced floors are easier to clean but are usually noisier and scratch
easier.
Electricity
Keep in mind where electrical outlets are when deciding how to set up your sewing room.
Extension cords can be dangerous; their use should be limited. Power strips and surge
protectors with circuit breakers are recommended, especially for irons and machines.
Walls
The color and surface of the walls will affect lighting. Dark colors will absorb the light,
making the room darker than lighter shades. However, bright white glossy surfaces will
reflect the light and cause unwanted glare. Soft colors with a matt or semi-gloss surface are
best.

8. Machine Height
The bed of your machine should be 25-29 inches high. If your machine sets on top of a table,
the table height needs to be lower than if you have a sewing machine cabinet with a recessed
area that the machine sets in. The depth of the sewing table should be at least 20 inches.
Sunlight
Sunlight is the most natural and best light available. However, direct sunlight can produce
glare and fatigue. Adjust the direction of the sunlight and the amount you get with placement
of equipment in relation to windows and use of window coverings.
Ventilation
Fabrics are often treated with chemicals for shipping and storage. Dry-cleaned material and
garments release chemical fumes. Working with fabric produces large amounts of dust and
lint. To reduce fatigue, make sure that your work area is well ventilated with fresh air.
Efficient Work Area
Design the layout of your work area for maximum efficiency. Consider the three basic
functions performed in this area: cutting, sewing, and pressing. It is important to be able to
move quickly and freely between these areas. Keep this “work triangle” in mind when
designing your sewing area.
Task lights
Task lights are direct lights used to enhance specific work areas, especially for close up work.
Where you place task lights will depend on the task and your personal preference. Use
adjustable task lights to eliminate shadows. Most tasklamps use incandescent bulbs.

9. Pressing Surface
An adjustable ironing board will allow you to find the most comfortable height for pressing
and change the height depending on whether you decide to work standing or sitting. If you
have a fixed height pressing surface, make sure it is set so that you can work without
excessive bending or reaching.
Halogen Lights
Halogen lights provide lighting that resembles natural daylight and are energy efficient.
However, the bulbs get extremely hot and must be used with caution to prevent fires. Never
leave halogen lights on when you are not working in the room.
Fitting Area
A good fitting area will be located in front of a full length mirror. The floor surface should be
hard and even for measuring hem heights. The area needs to be large enough for a person to
work on all sides of the person being fit.
Cutting Table Height
The ideal height for your cutting table will depend on your height. The height is generally
between 34 and 40 inches high. It is better for your back if you can work without bending
over. If your table is not high enough, consider putting it up on blocks.
Indirect Lighting
Overhead lighting and floor lamps will provide indirect light to the room. Well placed and
sufficient indirect lighting will reduce shadows. Fluorescent lights provide good indirect light
and are energy efficient.
Posture
Practicing good posture will protect your neck and back. Proper height of seating and work
surfaces will protect you posture. If you are doing a repetitive task, take breaks and stretch
often.

10. Material Handling
Employees may sometimes have to move large rolls of uncut fabric or large bundles of cut
fabric from delivery, or between stations. Some of the risks identified with this operation,
and possible solutions, are listed below.
 Moving Bulk Fabric and Materials
 Moving Cut Fabric
Moving Bulk Fabric and Materials
Potential Hazards:
 When moving bulk materials, employees may
have to lift heavy items and lift with awkward
postures, which may result in back and shoulder
injuries (Fig. 1).
 Lifting objects with arms fully extended or lifting
from floor level or above shoulder level may
cause injury to the back, shoulders, and arms
(Fig. 1).
 Repeated torso twisting while lifting may also
cause low back injuries.
Fig. 1
Lifting from floor level and with
awkward postures.
Possible Solutions:
 Design stations to allow most lifts at waist level.
 Use spring-leveling carts and elevating
tables (Fig 2).
 Use mechanical lifts, ceiling tracks or carts to
transport the fabric to reduce the risk of injury to
the employee.
 Use rollers, which may reduce the need to hold
the load while reorienting it, and will reduce
force needed to move the load.
 Have fabric rolls delivered in smaller, easier-to-
move rolls.
 Remove any barriers that prevent bringing the Fig. 2
load closer to the body. Design stations to allow most lifts at
waist level.
 Train employees to use proper lifting techniques.

11. MOVING CUT FABRIC
Potential Hazard:
 Employees repeatedly bend at the waist and
reach into transportation tubs to load or retrieve
cut fabric, causing stress on the back and arms
Reaching into cart.
 Employees repeatedly bend to lift bins or bundles
of fabric
Earl Dotter
Bending to lift bin.

12.  Employees lift bins or bundles over chest height,
which may cause injury to the shoulders and
back
Earl Dotter
Lifting over chest height.
 Force applied while pushing or pulling carts
containing fabric pieces or scraps may cause
injury to the arms and back
 Thread and scraps of material may clog the
wheels, causing the worker to apply more force
when pushing or pulling carts.
Pushing carts.

13. Possible Solutions:
 Use height-adjustable carts to reduce the need to
bend or reach into the carts
Height-adjustable cart.
 Design stations to allow most lifts at waist level
 Use bins with good handles to make lifting easier
Use bins with good handles and design
stations to allow lifts at waist level.
 Remove any barriers that prevent bringing the
load closer to the body.
 Train employees to use proper lifting techniques.
 Use force-reducing castors, wheels, and carts.
 Institute a cart/wheel maintenance program. Well
maintained carts require less force to move.
 Emphasize good housekeeping, which keeps
debris from building up and blocking moving
carts.
Force-reducing wheel.

14. NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF FASHION TECHNOLOGY,CHENNAI
DEPARTMENT OF FASHION TECHNOLOGY
ASSIGNMENT ON
APPLICATION OF ERGONOMICS IN A SEWING FLOOR
DATE -19-09-2011
SUBMITTED BY
PRIYANSHU RANA
SUVROJIT MUKOPADHYAY
SUBMITTED TO
RUSSAL TIMOTHY
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR
NIFT,CHENNAI