Ergonomics in the cleanroom

Ergonomic workbench

Height-adjustable table with glass work surface

For several years, KEK has been working on improving ergonomics in cleanrooms with their products. Good ergonomic conditions are a prerequisite for top performance and high quality. Highly sensitive activities require maximum attention while maintaining consistent work quality. The goal of designing the cleanroom should be to increase employee motivation through improved working conditions and higher performance.

When designing the cleanroom, the requirements of the activity and the employee's capabilities must be considered from the outset. Furthermore, technical feasibility must be checked. In terms of costs, acquisition costs should be taken into account, as well as potential follow-up costs due to increased wear and tear or illness resulting from poor ergonomic conditions.

To achieve an optimal result, modern project management methods should be applied. The requirements and objectives must be documented in writing and then compared with solution options. The preferred variant should be reviewed after completion regarding the planned requirements and objectives and adjusted if necessary. Future employees should be involved in all phases.

When considering the employee's capabilities, differences in size, reach, age, gender, and physical constitution should be taken into account. Guidelines for this can be found in DIN 33402, Part 2, which standardizes measurements of people living in Germany.

The design of the cleanroom should also consider noise reduction, vibration avoidance, sufficient lighting, and climatic conditions. The use of colors brightens the atmosphere and has a motivating effect.

To meet these requirements, KEK has also improved their products from this perspective. For example, a combined sit-stand workstation was developed for the Cleanzone trade fair. An infinitely adjustable electric height adjustment, a work surface adapted to the reach area, and armrests made of Polystone for a better temperature sensation on the skin are exemplary of the constructive implementation of improved ergonomics.