This book, Forensic Human Factors and Ergonomics, edited by Michael S. Wogalter, explores the application of Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) in forensic analysis through 18 detailed case studies. Each chapter investigates injury scenarios, derived from actual lawsuits but with fictionalized names, places, and details to ensure privacy. These scenarios depict everyday interactions between individuals and their environments or products before critical incidents occur. Post-incident analyses provide a comprehensive background of prior similar events, systematically examining potential causative factors leading up to the injury event. The focus is on understanding the person-machine interface, human error, hazard analysis, and hazard control, utilizing the model of communication-human information processing (C-HIP). Authored by experienced HFE experts who have served as professional expert witnesses in legal cases, these chapters offer insights into general techniques that can be applied across various injury scenarios. However, the authors advocate for earlier application during a product’s lifecycle to prevent or minimize injuries.

The first three chapters introduce fundamental concepts necessary for the analyses presented throughout the book, while the final chapter consolidates key takeaways applicable across multiple case studies. The contributors bring extensive experience in HFE and have served as expert witnesses in numerous legal cases, primarily within the realm of product liability. This collection provides a broad range of situations illustrating how HFE considerations can enhance product or environmental safety, with particular emphasis on issues related to children, caregivers, and adult activities such as driving.