The broad and developing scope of ergonomics, the application of scientific knowledge to improve people's interaction with products, systems and environments, has been illustrated over the past sixteen years by the books that make up the Contemporary Ergonomics series. Presenting the proceedings of the Ergonomics Society's Annual Conference, the series embraces the wide range of topics covered by ergonomics. Chapters provide an insight into the current practice, present new research findings and form an invaluable reference source. Among the most interesting topics covered in this volume are rail safety, the development and applications of virtual reality and hospital ergonomics. Contemporary Ergonomics 2002 will appeal to all those who have an interest in people's interactions with their working and leisure environment, including designers, manufacturing and production engineers, health and safety specialists, occupational, applied and industrial psychologists, and applied physiologists.