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 presented, with a particular focus on the contribution of ergonomics to our understanding of work related musculoskeletal disorders. Future challenges are 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 existing and future work problems. Additionally, the importance of participatory ergonomics is considered, with respect to understanding and advancing solutions in this area. The issues of the ageing workforce and the challenges that must be met are also outlined. This area again emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary team approach that is proactive and designed to maximize the health and wellbeing of workers at all ages, whilst also ensuring a full and productive life.