HAM had a very good BAPCO 2026 event.

The HAM BAPCO stand was buzzing with visitors and we had the pleasure of meeting many interesting people facing a range of potential ergonomic challenges.

One theme that came up repeatedly during conversations: the 'gap' between technology solutions and the people expected to use them. Many organisations continue to underestimate the impact ergonomics can have on workspace or technology projects and what ergonomics is really about.

Usability featured heavily in our discussions, particularly around systems that reduce staff efficiency and effectiveness when delivering critical tasks. HAM uses satisfaction as a key measure to understand the current and potential success of work systems, which is why our HUSI tool is so powerful in guiding the delivery of new projects.

HAM specialise in both physical and cognitive ergonomics. Careful consideration must be given to both the Human-Machine Interface (HMI) and Human-Computer Interface (HCI) to ensure the whole worksystem is 'fit for purpose'. Once these fundamentals have been analysed, we can then turn our attention to room layouts and interior design concepts, all of which impact staff comfort, performance and wellbeing.

Figure 1: Desk viewing cone and reach envelope considerations from a vessel traffic project.

We are also privileged to work closely with staff user groups throughout the design process. Taking a 'user-centred' approach provides a critical reality check before systems are built or significant investment is committed to new facilities and technologies. This is not for the faint-hearted, with staff often quick to highlight where concepts require further thought and refinement.

Staff permission gained to use this image on the website.

Figure 2: The Staff Ergonomics Group helping to shape a new EOC design at Chelmsford.

We encourage anyone responsible for developing critical workspace technology or buildings to contact us and discover how ergonomics can transform a good project into exceptional delivery. The processes we use are highly effective in helping management teams define a strong business case for change while maintaining a clear focus on goals, objectives and successful outcomes throughout project delivery.

Thank you to everyone who visited our stand, we look forward to continuing the conversation.

John Hargreaves, HAM Senior Ergonomist.