This systematic literature review examines the application of extended reality (XR) technologies, including virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR), in healthcare design. This review explores how XR tools are applied to evaluate and enhance healthcare environments and the types of data collected during these assessments. A comprehensive review of 25 studies, conducted following the PRISMA guidelines, highlights four primary themes: tool effectiveness, design feedback, wayfinding, and care environment experience. Findings indicate that XR technologies offer significant potential for evaluating and improving healthcare environments, enhancing user experiences, and optimizing the design process. While challenges such as cybersickness and the lack of haptic feedback remain, XR can significantly boost user engagement, support evidence-based design decisions, and provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional mock-ups. This review underscores the importance of integrating multiple methods for collecting objective and subjective data in XR-based evaluations to ensure well-informed design decisions in future healthcare facilities.

Slip-related falls on icy surfaces remain a significant public health concern, largely because of the extremely low coefficient of friction of ice. Although advanced composite outsoles can reduce slips by 68% and falls by 78% compared to conventional winter footwear, our studies suggest that frequent slips on ice persist. We hypothesized that absolute slip risk on ice remains high, motivating the need for additional interventions. The objective of this project was to measure the risk of slipping for participants walking on a level ice surface using winter footwear with varying slip resistance performance and to compare the slip risk on ice to other surfaces reported in the literature. We investigated slip risk by recruiting 27 participants who walked on level ice while wearing 11 different winter boots across five Maximum Achievable Angle (MAA) categories (0°, 3°, 5°, 9°, 10°). After completing the level-ice trials, participants walked on progressively steeper ice surfaces only to determine their Observed MAA. The MAA test defines the steepest icy slope an individual can traverse without slipping. A motion capture system recorded 8,503 steps, of which 999 were slip-steps, corresponding to an overall 11.8% slip probability. Footwear with a 0°MAA exhibited 36% slip risk, while higher-rated 9-10°boots still had a 4%-5% slip probability, approximately one slip every 20-25 steps. Finally, we include an equation that converts MAA ratings into absolute, step-level slip risk on level ice (1 in N steps). These results confirm that, despite technological advances in outsole design, ice remains exceptionally hazardous. Even the best-performing boots did not fully prevent slips. Additional measures - such as slip-prevention training, improved ice-clearing practices, or heated and porous pavements - may thus be required to further reduce winter slip-related injuries.

This study aimed to develop and demonstrate a methodological framework for enhancing the predictability of filtering facepiece respirator (FFR) fit using 3D face-shape elements and evaluating their advantages over traditional anthropometric measurements for improved predictive modeling. Data was collected from 202 participants, including their 3D face scans and quantitative fit factor scores for one N95 respirator. An automated process was used to extract face shape data from 3D scans. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was conducted to evaluate if 3D face shape elements could achieve distinct and interpretable groupings compared to traditional anthropometric measurements. Predictive models were then developed using the face shape elements to predict FFR fit. The PCA grouped face shape elements, emphasizing their ability to form meaningful categories and opening the possibility to reduce variables in predictive modeling. The predictive models developed showed that specific face shape elements including lateral nose slope (3D) are more predictive of FFR fit than traditional anthropometric measurements. The best predictive models were those with fewer variables, emphasizing the effectiveness of 3D shape measurements in capturing critical local features beyond traditional face size metrics. This study demonstrated that 3D face shape elements provide a more reliable basis for predicting FFR fit than the traditional anthropometric approach. The use of geometric data enhances the understanding of face-respirator interaction, which can lead to the development of more effective respirator fit panels, improved safety protocols, and future respirator design innovation.

In a webinar series hosted by the International Ergonomics Association, the Future of Work Committee of the International Ergonomics Association gathered inputs about the future of work from ergonomics/human factors (E/HF) experts representing different regions around the world. Through these insights, four global megatrends relevant to E/HF driving the future of work were identified: labour-market supply; work informality; technology; and climate change. Next, we applied an E/HF systems approach, using causal loop diagrams, to explore the unfolding interrelationships between these megatrends at a global level and with a national level example to determine what novel insights can be uncovered using systems analysis. We demonstrate the power of E/HF systems thinking that can enable national E/HF societies and regional think-tanks to move beyond a siloed approach to megatrends. We conclude with some high-level suggestions for E/HF to consider in order to meet the future of work challenges.

This study evaluated three timing strategies for delivering AI assistance in pathological slide diagnosis - pre-diagnosis (triage), during diagnosis (concurrent), and post-diagnosis (secondary) - and assessed users' perceptions of AI assistance. All three AI modes improved diagnostic performance and reduced workload versus no AI assistance. Concurrent mode was preferred for its balance between efficiency and reader control; secondary mode was appreciated for minimizing bias and aiding training. Triage mode yielded lower workload and higher performance but raised concerns about trust and transparency. AI was regarded as a valuable tool for initial slide review, but not as a replacement for expert readers. Participants generally trusted the AI for highlighting suspicious areas, not making final decisions. After use, willingness to rely on AI for final diagnosis declined, though trust and usability remained moderate to high. To increase adoption, designers should manage AI information presentation to avoid bias, balance sensitivity and specificity based on user feedback, and improve explainability to enhance reader confidence and trust.

We explored the ISO 9241-411 multi-directional tapping (2D) test for evaluating computer pointing techniques. Based on Fitts' law, the test evenly distributes targets around a circular layout and requires the same movement distance between targets for all trials in a sequence. We demonstrate that this is only possible when using an odd number of targets. We reviewed 200 research papers using the 2D task and found that about a third of them use an even number of targets, and consequently report incorrect values for throughput, reinforcing the need to advertise this overlooked but relevant issue. Our findings imply that adhering to an odd number of targets and to the correct definition of movement distance ensures methodological consistency, leading to valid throughput values. Consequently, we argue for revisiting and updating the ISO 9241-411 standard to explicitly state that an odd number of targets is required for the 2D task.

Most air traffic controllers (ATCO) are selected after high school graduation, partly based on cognitive abilities. On the contrary, French ATCO are selected after an intensive scientific post-secondary program without undergoing cognitive assessment. This study examines the potential incremental validity of cognitive predictors in ATCO training for such proficient applicants. Initial and unit training results were available for 414 and 277 ATCO students, respectively. All students took cognitive ability tests, encompassing visuospatial processing, quantitative knowledge, and work samples. We compared a baseline regression model with academic performance as sole predictor to an extended model with the addition of the cognitive abilities composite score. The R of the extended model increased significantly, by 0.04 (p < .001) and 0.06 (p < .001), respectively, for predicting practical initial and unit training outcome. In conclusion, even for scientific proficient candidates, cognitive assessment can enhance the success rate of ATCO training.

Hand-intensive work is associated with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), highlighting the need to estimate external forearm loads. Surface electromyography (sEMG) with muscle-specific placements enables continuous load monitoring but has notable limitations. This study evaluated a novel through-forearm sEMG placement against traditional extensor and flexor placements for estimating force and perceived exertion during hand-intensive tasks.

Despite recent updates to the NFPA standard for firefighter glove sizing, significant fit and coverage challenges persist due to gaps in data application and design translation. This study assessed the standard's ability to accommodate the firefighter population, examined optimal size gradations, and proposed an improved sizing scheme. Using 12 hand measurements from a stratified sample of 943 firefighters, the analysis employed data mapping, principal component analysis (PCA), clustering, and logistic regression. Results showed that 35.2 % of firefighter hands fall outside the seven required NFPA sizes. A refined seven-size system was developed using PCA and clustering, while preserving NFPA sizing conventions. Logistic regression established probability-based boundaries to better guide size selection for users. This study offers the most up-to-date analysis of glove sizing alternatives, providing hand-dimension specifications to help manufacturers optimize design, streamline production, reduce inventory complexity, and enhance glove accommodation for firefighters.

Human-centred and ergonomic work design is one of the most important drivers for increasing the competitiveness of the European Union. As a flexible, person-specific occupational measure, exoskeletons promise great potential for effectively reducing individual ergonomic stress. Digital human models can provide important insights and offer great potential for systematising the effect and targeted use of exoskeletons, supporting their effective implementation in practice. In this article, digital human models are applied on two levels. Firstly, a realistic industrial logistics scenario in which boxes had to be relocated is designed with the help of a digital human model for workplace and process planning and secondly, a new biomechanical evaluation methodology to analyse intended and unintended effects on internal stress on the human body is demonstrated by applying musculoskeletal exoskeleton human models of four test subjects. Finally, the modelled biomechanical support tendencies of one exoskeleton are preliminary validated using EMG measurement data of the back muscles collected from the four male workers. The preliminary analysis of two back-support exoskeletons to demonstrate the new methodological approach confirms the expected, intended effects in the lower back and reveals unintended effects, such as e.g. changes in knee kinetics when applying a soft or hard-frame exoskeleton. Furthermore, the exemplary results to demonstrate the methodological approach expose notable differences between the test subjects, which underlines the relevance of person-specific evaluation and consideration of exoskeleton support. The preliminary validation shows a correlation between the modelled and the EMG-measured biomechanical exoskeleton support of the considered back muscles.

With the introduction of highly automated vehicles (HAV; SAE Level 4) driverless mobility systems may fundamentally change public transportation. For potential passengers of these systems, new situations may arise, leaving them without a driver to directly communicate with. This can be problematic when the driving automation is confronted with situations it might be unable to manage by itself, which would cause a minimal risk maneuver (MRM), e.g. a complete standstill of the vehicle. Some concepts enhance these systems with a remote assistant who can support the HAV, adding novelty to the transportation process. This increased novelty may result in user discomfort for passengers, causing a need for information systems that address this. One possibility to do so and to thus improve hedonic quality and thus comfort for passengers is by providing system transparency via a media rich in-vehicle Human-Machine Interface (iHMI), which provides information to passengers about the ADS and its processes. However, there is still a gap in research on the ideal communication mechanism to ensure good hedonic quality and comfort during these situations. We conducted a simulator study in virtual reality (VR), investigating interfaces based on media richness theory to address this issue. The interface provided a multi-layered iHMI consisting of transparency information presented with varying levels of media richness. In a block design, participants experienced three versions of an iHMI, one presenting information via text, another combining text and auditive presentation and a third adding a human avatar simulating Face-to-Face communication. After each scenario, participants completed questionnaires regarding understanding, predictability, trust and user experience. Study results reveal significant increases in the hedonic quality of user experience and trust towards the system for interfaces with increased media richness, providing a first step towards enhancing user comfort with iHMI in automated mobility systems during challenging situations for the automation system, such as MRM.

This paper examines the implementation of a cyber-physical mining system, the Autonomous Haulage System (AHS), from a work-system perspective. It explores how automation reconfigures the balance between human, technological, and organisational elements, with a focus on operator roles. Drawing on an explorative case study in an open-pit mine, the analysis applies Balance Theory to interpret how work and organisational relations are reshaped as autonomy is redistributed between humans and technology. Findings show that while the AHS contributes to improved safety and predictability, it also introduces greater work-task diversity and responsibility, increased standardisation and bureaucratisation, and reduced social interaction with emerging risks of isolation. Operators remain central to supervision, coordination, and adaptation, but their work becomes more procedural and dependent on organisational structures and formal routines. The study concludes that maintaining balance in cyber-physical mining systems is an ongoing organisational responsibility that relies on social cohesion, mutual trust, and continuous learning. Ultimately, the findings emphasise that the effectiveness of mining automation depends as much on collective engagement and organisational adaptation as on technological performance.

Construction workers, especially electricians, frequently perform overhead tasks on elevated platforms, increasing their risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and falls. This study evaluated the effects of three passive upper extremity exoskeletons (PUEEs) on shoulder muscle activity and postural balance during a simulated wire pulling task on a motion platform replicating scissor lift dynamics. Nine male participants completed tasks at two force levels (65 N and 130 N), with and without exoskeletons. Electromyography, motion capture, and force plate data were used to assess shoulder muscle activation, joint kinematics, and postural stability. The tested PUEEs significantly reduced peak activity in key shoulder muscles-including upper trapezius (-17 % to -38 %) and much of deltoid (-1 % to -49 %)-without increasing load in the back or lower limbs. Postural stability improved with the tested PUEEs (5 %-25 %), particularly with the heavy ones, though distinct kinematic changes were observed across models. These results suggest that PUEEs may reduce biomechanical strain and improve balance during static or quasi-static overhead work, but task-specific demands and device characteristics should be carefully considered.

Falls during stair descent have been associated with non-uniformities in stair dimensions. A common stairway non-uniformity is the top-of-flight defect, where the rise and run dimensions of the uppermost step in a stairway differ from the subsequent lower steps. This defect has been described as hazardous, but its effect on foot placement and misstep risk in stair descent has not been studied. In this experimental study, we quantified foot overhang for adults (n = 27) descending a seven-step staircase with a top-of-flight defect compared to descending a uniform staircase. When the defect was present, an increase in foot overhang occurred on the third, fourth and fifth steps down the stairs (S3, S4, and S5; p < 0.05), two to four steps below the step containing the defect (S1). Given that increased foot overhang is associated with an increased risk of misstepping and falling, this finding provides a biomechanical explanation for falls that originate downstream from the defect and in a region of the stair where the geometry is uniform. Our findings provide support for requiring uniform stair geometry beginning at the upper landing, a common area where stair dimensions change in both new and existing construction and renovations.

The complementary integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace requires balancing performance goals with psychological needs, as both are essential for sustained outcomes. This study examines different workflows (AI-first and human-first) as cognitive forcing strategies to test whether they enhance performance and psychological outcomes compared to human-only and AI-only processing. In a one-factorial between-subjects experiment (N = 101) within a visual inspection task, evaluated at up to three measurement points, performance variables (accuracy, speed, error rates) and psychological variables (vigilance, flow, teaming experience, wellbeing when working with the AI) were assessed. Human-AI collaboration outperformed AI-only in error rates (η = 0.29) and human-only in speed (η = 0.11 - 0.14), but only when AI preceded human processing. The AI-first workflow enhanced teaming perception compared to human-only processing (η = 0.07). Moreover, human-AI collaborative processing reduced flow decrease compared to human-only processing (η = 0.07). Overall, AI processing preceding human processing produces the best balance between performance and psychological outcomes in safety-critical inspection tasks, supporting a holistic view of AI integration in the workplace.

Optical see-through head-mounted displays (OST-HMDs) employ a distinctive method of information presentation that differs from conventional devices. This approach influences the human-computer interaction and text legibility. This study examines the impact of typefaces, letter spacing, and line spacing on OST-HMD text legibility while walking. Two experiments were conducted. Experiment 1 evaluated the influence of two typefaces on text legibility, while Experiment 2 investigated the effects of three levels of letter spacing and line spacing. Both experiments followed the MNREAD protocol. The findings indicated that the selected typefaces did not significantly affect text legibility. However, smaller letters and line spacing negatively affected text legibility. These results will be beneficial in formulating recommendations for typefaces, letter spacing, and line spacing when displaying text on OST-HMDs, enhancing user experience and ensuring optimal legibility in various applications.

Exoskeletons are increasingly used to reduce physical strain during overhead and repetitive manual tasks. This study evaluated a novel passive upper limb exoskeleton adjustable for maximum support at different arm elevation angles. Ten male participants performed repetitive arm movements with a 2.5 kg weight along a sinusoidal trajectory at elevations between 90° and 135° in the sagittal plane. Use of the exoskeleton resulted in a statistically significant (p < 0.05) reduction in muscle activity in the anterior deltoid and biceps brachii. Muscle activity for the lower trapezius, latissimus dorsi, erector spinae, and pectoralis major showed numerical reductions, but these were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). With exoskeleton use, reductions were observed in heart rate, [Formula: see text] , [Formula: see text] and RER, although only changes in [Formula: see text] and RER were statistically significant. Respiratory frequency did not decrease (p > 0.05). Future research should include a more diverse participant group, tasks that better represent real-world manual labour, and direct comparisons with already established exoskeletons.

With the deployment of high levels of vehicle automation, motion sickness is expected to become more prevalent in road transportation. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of haptic motion cueing as a countermeasure to motion sickness. During a stop-and-go ride in an electric vehicle, vibrotactile cues were generated in the seat backrest as an intervention. Grounded in the neural mismatch theory, this approach is based on a recovery hypothesis, proposing that providing somatosensory information consistent with vehicle motion forces can facilitate the restoration of sensory concordance and reduce motion sickness symptoms. In a within-subjects design, 24 participants were driven in sessions of approximately 18 min (6 laps). During the first three laps, motion sickness was induced as participants played a video game without visibility of the vehicle's surroundings. In the last three laps, a motion sickness alleviation method was applied: participants stopped gaming and gazed at the vehicle's surroundings to relieve their symptoms, with or without the vibrotactile cues. Analyses revealed no significant effect of the vibrotactile cues on symptom alleviation. Feedback from the participants emphasized user acceptance as a crucial dimension underlying the effectiveness of a haptic countermeasure. These outcomes improve understanding of haptic cues and inform the design of motion cueing systems that support motion sickness relief.

In an effort to address existing knowledge gaps in human factors research on camera monitor system (CMS) display layout, this study investigated the effects of side- and rear-view CMS display locations under two lane-changing scenarios with different levels of urgency. Fifty participants performed a simulated lane-changing task four times in each of 12 driving conditions (2 side-view display locations × 3 rear-view display locations × 2 driving scenarios), and their response time, number of collisions, eyes-off-the-road time, and subjective ratings (accuracy, learnability, memorability, intuitiveness, preference, and satisfaction) were collected. The study findings highlight the importance of aligning CMS display locations with driver's mental model by positioning the displays near the traditional mirror locations while minimizing eye gaze travel distances by positioning them close to driver's forward line of sight. Additionally, the relative importance of these two conflicting design characteristics may vary depending on the context-dependent roles of CMS displays.

Modern office environments increasingly feature multiple computing devices and advanced monitors, whose maximum luminance levels have risen significantly in recent years. In addition, current lighting standards place greater emphasis on the role of ambient lighting and wall (il)luminance in creating a comfortable environment. However, higher luminance levels do not inherently lead to enhanced reading comfort. Prior research indicates that reading comfort is influenced by a combination of monitor luminance and the luminance characteristics of the surrounding environment. This study examines the optimal monitor luminance levels that enhance reading comfort under fixed wall luminance conditions, as well as the optimal wall luminance levels under fixed monitor luminance conditions. A total of 25 participants (aged 21-26 years) took part in the experiment. Using the psi-marginal adaptive method, participants were given direct control to determine the luminance levels they perceived as most comfortable for reading. Four different monitor luminance levels (120, 260, 453 and 700 cd m) and five wall luminance levels (12, 34, 68, 113 and 170 cd m) were used as fixed luminance levels throughout the experiment. The results demonstrate that higher fixed wall/monitor luminance levels are generally associated with higher optimal monitor/wall luminance levels selected by participants. According to the European standard of lighting requirements for indoor workplaces, the minimum required wall luminance is between 24 cd m and 38 cd m. For a fixed wall luminance level within this interval (34 cd m), the results of this study show that the optimal luminance level of the monitor ranges from below 120 cd m to around 450 cd m with a median of 166 cd m, and an IQR of [133 cd m; 270 cd m]. In conclusion, the findings suggest that, within standard office environments, it is not necessary to utilise monitors with luminance levels exceeding 500 cd m to achieve optimal reading comfort.