Contributions of participatory ergonomics to the involvement of workers in chemical risk prevention projects

BACKGROUND: In a context where preventive measures are developed via a functionalist and technological approach, the aim of this work is to set out general principles and methods for new preventive solutions that will enrich these existing measures. OBJECTIVE: We propose an approach centered on the involvement of workers at all hierarchical levels around "intermediary objects" of prevention in order to foster a collective debate. This might provide empowered workers to be actors into their own prevention of risk faced. METHODS: Observational data was coupled with chemical and physiological measurements. We developed, reworked and enriched the notion of risk representation, which promotes the visibility and recognition of the knowledge built, developed and held by workers on their activities and on ways to protect themselves from dangers or hazards. RESULTS: Implementation of the method generates detailed knowledge of chemical risks, knowledge that is constructed by the workers. This knowledge is made possible by the experience of the body and senses, and becomes accessible via references to the domestic and professional sphere in reflexive activities. The actors get involved and make use of their individual, collective and organizational resources to propose prevention solutions CONCLUSIONS: Use of intermediate prevention objects in an "intermediate space for dialogue" allows dialogues to be produced and fostered. Ultimately, these spaces are circulating entities for the co-production of knowledge for action: to generate knowledge and innovative prevention solutions collectively.