Comparison of three Human Factors models to reduce injuries in a hospital environment

Three different human factors models have been used to prevent injuries in a 1200 bed urban medical center. The human factors consulting, employee participatory ergonomics; and interdisciplinary team. Comparisons of outcomes of these three techniques reveal that the traditional model with a human factors consultant is successful but can be expensive. Participatory ergonomics can be successful in some job environments. This model is less costly in consultant fees but is more time consuming for the employees. The third model with the interdisciplinary team has been successful in reducing the number of injuries. The most appropriate model seems to depend on specific environment and the type of problems that have been identified.