The first SafetyNet Human Factors and Ergonomics event was held on 25 June 2024 at Imperial College, hosted by the NIHR North West London Patient Safety Research Collaboration (PSRC). Five PSRCs were represented, with a total of 18 delegates attending.

The objectives of the day were to explore our understanding of Human Factors and Ergonomics in the context of patient safety research, to learn from each other’s work in this area, and to agree on the next steps for advancing this field within SafetyNet.

Highlights included an inspiring plenary session by Dr Denham Phipps from NIHR Greater Manchester PSRC, who provided an overview of Human Factors/Ergonomics theory and principles, along with examples of tools and approaches used in patient safety research. Presentations from researchers at the North West London, Greater Manchester, Newcastle, and Yorkshire and Humber PSRCs showcased various research projects that had utilized or planned to utilise Human Factors/Ergonomics approaches.

The afternoon focused on exploring the challenges and next steps for the group of PSRCs. It was noted that there is a lack of consensus on the definition of Human Factors/Ergonomics, even among experts. However, useful working definitions included “the study of the relationships between people and the settings in which they work” and “designing systems to fit people and how they work.” PSRCs are already incorporating a Human Factors/Ergonomics perspective into various studies across different research themes, with potential for further expansion.

Next steps include setting up a Human Factors/Ergonomics working group, organising online seminars to highlight exemplary research in this area, and planning a future one-day face-to-face workshop with sessions on different techniques for those interested in learning more and applying these methods in their research.

Researchers interested in joining the mailing list for the community of practice can contact Emma Eyers from Yorkshire and Humber PSRC at Emma.Eyers@bthft.nhs.uk.

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By Bryony Dean Franklin, director of NIHR North West London PSRC

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