I believe the data would come in handy in my future role as a human engineer. I would be able to use the data to design systems and devices that take into consideration the psychological and physical characteristics of the users. The kitchen is a room whose ergonomics if often ignored even though it is the room where the food that keeps us alive is prepared. Any kitchen should follow the principles of ergonomic design. The movement of the body is a fixed part of the equation during the design process, and there should not be any pressure on the body to fit or adjust to the environment.
Kitchens should work for every user. Countertops should not be too high to the extent of straining the short users or again too short to strain the tall users the height should be average around 35 inches from the floor. Counter heights are measured optimally based on the distance between the elbow and the floor (ErgoMatters). This will rid the users for unhealthy back strains; they should be able to work long hours such as when preparing a Thanksgiving dinner without hurting the back too much. Pain on the upper back area signifies that the countertops are too high, and lower back pains mean the countertops are too low for the user. Another consideration is the safety of the users; the kitchen is inherently dangerous with an unlimited potential for accidents. The cabinets should be placed strategically around the kitchen for easy access while at the same time avoid items from falling on the users. I will ensure that I design kitchens in a manner that no cabinets are directly above the counters.
Work cited
ErgoMatters. Standing Workstation Guidelines. n.d. Web. 29 Apr. 2016. <http://www.statefundca.com/home/StaticIndex?id=http://content.statefundca.com//safety/ErgoMatters/StandingGuidelines.asp>
