Safe Work Australia estimates that more than 360,000 people are affected by work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). These include problems in the nerves, tendons, ligaments, and spinal discs. Problems are worse if one spends many hours driving; people who drive for at least 20 hours a week have a higher risk of developing these disorders.

1. Vehicle Ergonomics and its
Effect on a Driver’s Health
and Safety
MFI Service Bodies

2. Safe Work Australia estimates that more than 360,000 people are affected by work-related
musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). These include problems in the nerves, tendons, ligaments, and
spinal discs. Problems are worse if one spends many hours driving; people who drive for at least 20
hours a week have a higher risk of developing these disorders.
The usual culprits for WMSDs among drivers are poor posture and stress. After all, sitting in an
uncomfortable position and exposure to a car’s vibrations cause wear and tear on one’s muscles. The
shape of the car may also put unnecessary pressure on certain body parts.
Although these problems can be eased by alternating long and short drives and taking rest breaks,
experts say that ergonomics can also be a long-term, effective solution.
Importance of Good Car Ergonomics
The Transportation Research Institute of the University of Michigan defines vehicle ergonomics as the
interaction between a driver or passenger and the car. Specifically, it looks into how the vehicle’s
interior design affects the driver or passenger’s posture, position and comfort.

3. Good ergonomics reduce the risks of health problems among drivers, especially those who do it for a
living. It eliminates unnecessary stress on the person’s body, as well as provides comfort for long hours
on the road.
Moreover, it also improves the driver’s safety. For instance, good ergonomics dictate that the driver’s
chest should be about 30 cm from the steering wheel. This way, the seatbelt and airbag provide
maximum safety in case of a crash.
Achieving Good Car Ergonomics
Experts say that in looking for a vehicle or having one customised into the vehicle, the owner should
ensure that the driver’s space accommodates the driver’s build. Moreover, one should make sure that
the seat cushion and seat back angle is adjustable. The seat should be angled slightly back at 100-110⁰
to decrease the pressure on the lower back. Meanwhile, one should allot a few centimetres of space
between the seat cushion and the knees because pressing the back of the knees could restrict blood
circulation.
Institutions continually conduct studies on vehicle ergonomics and its effects on the driver health and
safety. The University of Michigan stated these studies could be used to develop safe and efficient
vehicle models and improve industry practices.

4. Sources:
https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/system/files/documents/1702/statistics_on_work-
related_musculoskeletal_disorders.pdf
https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/driving.html
https://www.aphis.usda.gov/mrpbs/emssd/downloads/Driving_Ergonomics.pdf
https://canadasafetycouncil.org/safety-canada-online/article/your-how-guide-good-driving-
ergonomics
http://ehs.oregonstate.edu/sites/ehs.oregonstate.edu/files/pdf/ergo/vehicle_ergonomics_best_practic
e_guide.pdf
http://www.mfiservicebodies.com.au
http://www.umtri.umich.edu/our-focus/vehicle-ergonomics