Ergonomics can bring benefits in many areas relating to work, recreation and everyday living. Its application is increasingly encouraged by government bodies in the UK, US7, Canada, Europe and Australia.

Areas in which ergonomics has become particularly prominent include:

• Web usability.
• Inclusive design (eg, accessibility issues for people with disabilities, including web accessibility).
• Prevention of Work-Related Upper Limb Disorders8.
• Safe and comfortable working with office technology.
• Accident cause and prevention.
• Consumer product design.
• Military systems.

It is difficult to sum up the breadth of ergonomics. Perhaps the best way is to state a general principle:

Humans shouldn't have to adapt to technology. Technology should be built around humans.