“Sen·so·ry” – adj. Pertaining to sensation; That aspect of consciousness resulting from the stimulation of a nerve process beginning at any point in the body and passing through the brain, especially by those stimuli affecting any of the sense organs, as hearing, taste, touch, smell, sight and movement.
“Er·go·om·ics” – n. The study of the relationship between man and his working environment, with special reference to anatomical, physiological and psychological factors; human engineering.
Sensory Ergonomics therefore means the act of manipulating an environment through either adding or withdrawing sensory stimuli to meet the needs of the individuals functioning within that environment.
Sensory Ergonomics can only be performed effectively after sensory profiling of staff concludes the behvioural responses to their work environment.
Low threshold individuals are for instance more sensitive to the environment, they need very little sensory stimuli to meet the threshold and fire a response in the brain.
In contrast, high threshold individuals need extra sensory stimuli to meet the threshold and fire a response in the brain.
Some Sensory Ergonomics for low threshold individuals:
- Reduce ringer volume on phones (↓ noise)
- Reduce clutter and create harmonious spaces (↓ visual)
- Move an individual away from air conditioner outflow (↓ touch)
Some Sensory Ergonomics for high threshold individuals:
- Extend phone cords for individuals who make and/or take phone calls. It gives them the opportunity to walk while talking (↑ movement)
- Use background noise (↑ noise)
- Use bright lighting (↑ visual)
A Sensory Intelligence® consultation will include:
- Sensory Profile Testing
- Sensory Stressor Identification
- Sensory Ergonomics: Environmental Adaptations
We conduct various call centre workshops (Senses on Call) throughout the year.
Our next workshop is set for 14 May 2015 (Johannesburg) and 21 May 2015 (Cape Town).
Contact email@example.com for more information!
Be sure to visit our website (where you can also sign up for our newsletter) and social media pages for updates on our scheduled events, as well as some great tips and resources.