What is ISO 6385-Ergonomics principles in the design of work systems about?
ISO 6385 is an international standard that discusses the ergonomics principles in the design of work systems to reduce exposure to work hazards.
ISO 6385 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.
The definitions and ergonomic principles specified in ISO 6385 apply to the design of optimal working conditions concerning 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 ISO 6385 apply to many other human activities, e.g. in the design of products for domestic and leisure activities. The systems approach in ISO 6385 gives guidance to the users of ISO 6385 in existing and new situations.
Note1: ISO 6385 is considered to be the core ergonomic standard for work systems from which many others on specific issues are derived.
Note2: Although elements of the system can be the same, ISO 6385 is not intended to be applied to systems used in a non-work context (e.g., the use of a vehicle for private purposes).
Who is ISO 6385-Ergonomics principles in the design of work systems for?
ISO 6385 on the ergonomics principles in the design of work systems is useful for:
- Executives
- Managers
- Ergonomists
- Project managers
Why should you use ISO 6385-Ergonomics principles in the design of work systems?
Technological, economic, organizational and human factors affect the work behaviour and well-being of people as part of a working system. Applying ergonomic knowledge in the light of practical experience in the design of a working system is intended to satisfy human requirements.
ISO 6385 provides you with designing work systems, work system design process, formulation of goals (requirements analysis), analysis and allocation of functions, evaluation and monitoring, and much more.
The guidelines provided by ISO 6385 assist you to identify the changes necessary (their origins, effects and associated risks) to improve the design process and optimize work system performance.
With obedience and compliance to ISO 6385, you can enhance productivity, improve employee engagement and create a better safety culture.
What’s changed since the last update?
BS EN ISO 6385:2016 supersedes ISO 6385:2004, which is withdrawn. BS EN ISO 6385:2016 has made some technical changes compared to the previous edition ISO 6385:2004. These include:
- A new subclause on conformity was added to Clause 4
- Principle of adjustment was added to 3.7 and validation replaced by verification
- A new subclause on conformity was added to Clause 4
- The life cycle of a working system was introduced in 3.2