Road construction comprises high-risk work activity including risks for collision, musculoskeletal disorder, and slips, trips and falls. A participatory ergonomics project was hosted after compelling field observations were made. A manual task involving roll-out of multi-laminate tape was redesigned with the fabrication of a customized trolley. A human-centered design process was engaged (The Design for Operability and Maintainability Technique) and the project outcomes were reviewed according to an Occupational Perspective of Health, a spectrum of safety through to productivity (or “doing – being – becoming – belonging”). Critical success factors of the project are described, also, to inform activity that may sustain a participatory ergonomics and human-centered design practice.

The Functional Resonance Analysis Method (FRAM) involves mapping out interrelated functions to gain an understanding of how to monitor and optimize system performance. A FRAM model was applied to study the application of predictive, human-centered design review of an asphalt job truck for road construction. The model provided for a constructive means to communicate, reflect upon, and strategize methods to support ongoing human-centered design practice in the business. Practical recommendations were made with regard to resource allocation and management activity. This paper will describe the development of the model, the application, and the findings.

Human-centred design of work provides the potential to improve productivity, safety, and health. This thesis examines how organisations can achieve such good work design. Specifically, the research examines the tools, practices, activities, structures, systems, conditions, and culture by which organisations can achieve human-centred work.

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