Industrial workplace layout design. An application of engineering anthropometry.

Workplace layout design parameters or dimensions were determined mathematically by using the existing anthropometric data, for performing industrial tasks in sitting, standing and a combination of sitting and standing positions for the general male, female and a combination of male and female operators and the individual male and female operators for the 5th, 50th and 95th percentiles. The data were duly adjusted to account for the clothing, shoe and posture allowances. The reach dimensions were based on the most commonly used industrial operations which require a grasping movement. Appropriate allowances were provided to adjust the reach dimensions for other types of operations. The horizontal and vertical clearance dimensions and reference points for the horizontal and vertical clearances were established. For the determination of the normal working area in the horizontal plane, Squires' concept was recommended in preference to Farley's concept.