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Mining Publication: An Ergonomic Evaluation of Excavating Operations: A Pilot Study
Keywords: Equipment operation Ergonomics Fixed or awkward postures Whole-body vibration
Original creation date: July 2001
Authors: NK Kittusamy, B Buchholz
Peer Reviewed Journal Article - July 2001
Download PDF Document (0.82 MB)
NIOSHTIC2 Number: 20021772
Appl Occup Env Hyg 2001 Jul 16(7):723-726
Previous studies indicate that operators of heavy construction equipment are afflicted by musculoskeletal injuries of the arms, shoulders, neck, and lower back. These injuries appear to be due to excessive periods of sitting (static posture), work intensity, whole-body vibration, high resistance levers, repetitive motions, and awkward postures. Although numerous studies have shown an association between operation of heavy construction equipment and symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders, very little research has been performed that systematically characterizes operating engineers' exposure to ergonomic hazards. The objective of this study was to systematically characterize the ergonomic hazards associated with excavating operations. As such, the following were performed: (1) vibrations were measured at the operator/seat interface (X, Y, and Z axes), and at the floor of the cab (Z axis); (2) psychophysical ratings of whole-body vibration (WBV) level and overall seat design were obtained; and (3) postural assessments of the job were made.
Image of publication An Ergonomic Evaluation of Excavating Operations: A Pilot StudyPeer Reviewed Journal Article - July 2001
Download PDF Document (0.82 MB)
NIOSHTIC2 Number: 20021772
Appl Occup Env Hyg 2001 Jul 16(7):723-726
See Also
Back Injury Control Measures for Manual Lifting and Seat Design
Characteristics of Gait in Restricted Vertical Space Versus Unrestricted Walking
Effects of Lifting in Four Restricted Postures
Evaluation of Work Positions used by Continuous Miner Operators in Underground Coal Mines
Laboratory Investigation of Seat Suspension Design Performance during Vibration Testing
Physical Strength Assessment in Ergonomics
Programmable Electronic Mining Systems: Best Practice Recommendations (In Nine Parts): Part 2: 2.1 System Safety
Whole-Body Vibration and Postural Stress among Operators of Construction Equipment: A Literature Review
Whole-Body Vibration Exposure Comparison of Seat Designs for Low- and Mid-Seam Shuttle Cars in Underground Coal Mines
Working in Unusual or Restricted Postures
Page last reviewed: September 21, 2012
Page last updated: September 21, 2012
Content source: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Mining Program
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