Safety Factor and as an Object of Protection

The aim of this chapter is to elaborate on the personal characteristics of man described by the human sciences and their utilization for the planning of a man-machine-environment-system. Sections 6.1, Medical Aspects, and 6.2, Psychological Aspects, are meant to approach this problem in a detailed way. The human sciences must provide specialized information on as high a measurement level as possible. 

For the safeguarding of the entire active system of man-machine-environment, exactly the same principles are applied as have been referred to in Reliability and Suitability of Machines. In the case of man, the pertinent procedures can likewise be subdivided into planning, control, and testing. During the planning of a man-machine-environment-system, the anatomical data of the human body and its physiological processes and functions must be taken into account as contributory prerequisites in the same way as the stress characteristics of a material used in the construction of a machine. 

When planning such systems, the metropolic processes which take place in the human body must be considered in exactly the same way as the energy transformation in machines. The characteristics of psycho-neural 

When planning complex man-machine-environment-systems, the natural equipment of the operator, namely man, will have to be taken into account with some of his specific psychic and physical functions and the possibilities of compensating for them, and in some cases minimum values will have to be established. The science called ergonomics deals specifically with the problems of workplace design as far as creating humane working conditions, the proper performance of the technical system, and improved safety in the workplace are concerned. 

Man s most important contribution within a modern technical system is his capacity to act as a processor of information. It will thus be necessary to deal with the basic principles which relate to how man receives information, selects, processes, and passes it on. This also includes information on man himself. The individual should not only be able to have a realistic view of himself and react on it but also set goats for himself which will guide his actions. Such goals, introduced into a system which has been planned by others, may have a positive or disruptive influence. 

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