Ergonomics and occupational medicine: future challenges

Ergonomics has come a long way since the birth of the subject some 50 years ago. It now has an established research base and an appropriate portfolio of methodologies. A brief overview of the subject's development will be pre sented, with a particular focus on the contribution of ergonomics to our un derstanding of work related musculoskeletal disorders. Future challenges ar e also considered in this area, with particular emphasis on the need for a multidisciplinary approach to many industrial problems where the ergonomist , occupational physician and other professionals are needed to tackle exist ing and future work problems. Additionally, the importance of participatory ergonomics is considered, with respect to understanding and advancing solu tions in this area. The issues of the ageing workforce and the challenges t hat must be met are also outlined. This area again emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary team approach that is proactive and designed to maximiz e the health and wellbeing of workers at all ages, whilst also ensuring a f ull and productive life.