Prolonged use of a product, at home or at work, can cause health and safety problems – particularly if the product hasn’t been ergonomically designed.  Ergonomists from Hu-Tech Associates were employed to address the high incidence of worker back injuries and time off work by Customs officials in the UK Immigration Service.

The ergonomists conducted postural analysis and in-situ observation of the existing product design and environment. This was supplemented by interviews and questionnaires from staff and employees about their experiences using the desk.

These analyses led to a design intervention focussing on the corner of the passport desk. By encouraging passengers to reach further forward when handing over their passport, repetitive strain for the Customs officials was eliminated.

The intervention has subsequently been validated as successful in cutting the queuing time for passengers as well as reducing the incidence of injury and sick leave amongst the customs and immigration staff.

Designer: Hu-Tech Associates

Ergonomists: Hu-Tech Associates