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Author Frances Ives & Dr Peter Isherwood |
| Abstract Achieving integration of Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) within a large NHS Trust is a challenging, daunting and lengthy task. Despite recognition from a number of organisations within the NHS that HFE can bring benefits to both staff and patients, integration is in its infancy. The NHS Trust considered in this paper has a long established Ergonomics service focusing on the reduction of musculoskeletal problems in staff. In addition, the recognition of non-technical skills had developed through high fidelity simulation training. The Trust aimed to bring both elements together to develop broader HFE knowledge and application. A multidisciplinary Human Factors Faculty (HFF) approach was therefore pursued to create a platform to drive the integration of HFE. Two of the main challenges faced by the HFF were improving the understanding of HFE and limited funding. The platform approach adopted by the HFF pulls in interested people from within the Trust to initiate and support a variety of HFE projects. This has enabled awareness of HFE to grow quickly within the Trust through a variety of means with minimal funding and resources. There are challenges involved with developing and sustaining a Faculty of this nature including maintaining skills, credibility, quality of work and the reliance of a large amount of good will! However, the diversity and quantity of HFE projects and conversations carried out since the inception of the HFF is testament to the impact that such a multidisciplinary platform approach can have within a large NHS Trust. |