The Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors has introduced a new grade of membership, Technical Member, for those in other professions who do ergonomics as a part of their work (e.g. safety management, psychologist, physiotherapist, occupational therapist, engineer, systems designer). Technical Members will be awarded a certificate and may use the post nominal Tech.IEHF in recognition of the ergonomics/human factors work they undertake within their own professional field. It is intended as an achievement in itself, but also as a stepping stone to full Registered Membership. Details available from Kia Maine, or John Winter, Membership Department of the IEHF. www.iehf.org.uk

The enlargement of the membership base is probably best understood as part of the drive towards 'chartered' status by the longest established professional society of ergonomists in the world.