Which of the following is NOT a goal of ergonomics?

The goal of ergonomics is to design and arrange workplaces, products, and systems so that they fit the people who use them, thereby enhancing safety, comfort, and productivity. Increasing workplace productivity is a key objective as ergonomic principles aim to optimize the work environment, which can lead to more efficient performance and better output.

Reducing employee injury rates is fundamentally aligned with the purpose of ergonomics, as a well-designed workspace can help prevent musculoskeletal disorders and other injuries associated with poor workstation design.

Minimizing environmental impacts can sometimes be a goal of ergonomics, particularly in more modern interpretations that integrate sustainability into the design process. However, the primary aim is still around improving human interaction with work systems rather than environmental concerns.

Choosing to maximize worker discomfort directly opposes the principles of ergonomics, which seek to enhance comfort and usability. Hence, this choice stands out as clearly not fitting within the aims of ergonomics, making it the correct answer in this context.