The development of ergonomics data for health-building design guidance∗

Abstract

Changes in policy and resources result in health-care systems which are constantly evolving. The evolution is reflected in physical and functional changes in health-building designs.

Building design guidance must be capable of accommodating these changes without losing its validity or usefulness. This paper discusses the development of an ergonomics (i.e. user oriented) data bank, linked to a checklist of component parts (i.e. items of furniture and equipment), whose effective and efficient use and interrelationship determines the form and planning of an effective and efficient health building.

The developed data system is seen as an effective tool for quality control, which can be applied at the drawing-board stage in health-building design, and which has previously not been available.

Notes

Hilliar, P., 1981, The DHSS ergonomics data bank and design of spaces in hospitals. Applied Ergonomics, 12, 209-216, provides more information and a valid architectural comment on the data being developed. I do not, however, agree with some of his comments on ergonomics research methods.