Ergonomics and sustainability--challenges from global supply chains.
The development of globalised supply chains is a major challenge for sustainability. For several years, there has been discussion within the profession whether and how ergonomics and human factors can play a role. Based on our research, we have identified five major challenges from global supply chains especially related to the social aspects of sustainability: (1) criteria for social sustainability, (2) the role of key performance indicators in the management of supply chains, (3) the constant changes in supply chains, (4) the challenge in establishing participation, and (5) the development of agency and regulatory mechanisms. There are obviously no clear and simple solutions to these challenges. One possible avenue for progress might lie in acquiring a greater understanding of the challenges from global supply chains and developing a strategy which combines social and long-term business sustainability. Starting from such a basis, the next step would be to find ways for the ergonomics and human factors community to create international collaboration which can impact specific global supply chains.
National Research Centre for the WorkingEnvironment, Lersøpark Allé 103, 2800 Copenhagen ø, Denmark.
Peter
P
Hasle
Per Langaa
PL
Jensen
D003132:Commerce / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000458:organization & administration*; D003247:Conservation of Natural Resources; D004864:Equipment and Supplies / Q000600:supply & distribution*; D006804:Ergonomics; D006801:Humans; D038622:Internationality; D016272:Occupational Health