bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ambulatory Low Back Load Exposure Estimation
Authors: Baten Chris T.M.
Published: January 2012

An ambulatory monitor for physical low back load exposure should be non-interfering, unrestricted in application space or duration, practical in use and interpretation, sufficiently accurate and reliable, sensitive to load handling and load coping and offer both detailed load parameters statistics and global information on tasks and behavior. A method is introduced that tries to meet these demands applying 3 technological innovations: miniature inertial movement sensing, artificial neural network based automatic calibration of the dynamic surface EMG–moment relationship and miniature RF links for wireless video-synchronization (AMBER). The currently implemented ambulatory method assesses load exposure through absolute 3D trunk kinematics data, muscle activation patterns, net moment data at spinal level L5/S1, compressive forces in symmetric loading situations and synchronized video. Principles, validation and recent field applications of the method are presented.
Combined Spinal Motion and Loading in Occupational Low Back Disorders
Authors: Fathallah Fadi A. , Marras William S. , Parnianpour Mohamad
Published: January 2012

Low back disorders (LBDs) are considered the most prevalent musculoskeletal disorders in occupational settings. There is significant epidemiological and biomechanical evidence that implicates combined motion and loading as important risk factors for LBDs. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate a potential approach for quantifying 3-D combined motion, loading, and loading rates in ergonomic research. Data from a field study were used to quantify combined; three-dimensional (3-D) trunk velocities of low and high-risk groups, and data from lifting study were used to assess the 3-D combined spinal loading and loading rate. The results showed that evaluating the percent of time the magnitude of 3-D vectors was over defined limits (velocities, loads, or load rates) provides the important temporal aspect of risk factors, which is commonly ignored in LBD risk assessment. The results also showed that loading rate was a sensitive indicator of dynamic loading. In conclusion, the present approach allows the detailed assessment of combined loading and motion, and evaluates the sensitivity of these patterns to various workplace conditions.
Visual and Lighting Conditions for VDU Workers. Primary prevention of visual discomfort
Authors: Bjørset Hans-Henrik , Aarås Arne , Horgen Gunnar
Published: January 2012

Visual and lighting conditions were significantly improved, while visual discomfort was significantly reduced by the new lighting system, applying localized lighting with suspended luminaires.
Optometric Examination and Correction of VDU Workers –Primary Prevention of Visual Discomfort
Authors: Horgen Gunnar , Aarås Arne
Published: January 2012

As part of an ergonomic intervention, a complete optometric examination was given, and corrections specially designed for VDU workstations were supplied. A significant reduction of visual symptoms was observed. A control group was followed without intervention for 3 years, and no similar reduction of visual problems was observed in this group. After ergonomic and optometric intervention in the control group, a reduction of symptoms was observed also in the control group. The total observation time was 6 years.
Power Grip Force Magnitude and Direction for Varying Cylindrical Handle Diameters and Hand Size
Authors: Edgren Cally S. , Radwin Robert G.
Published: January 2012

This study investigated external grip force vectors when grasping cylindrical handles of varying diameters. Forty-eight subjects (18 males and 30 females) grasped strain gage instrumented cylinders (2.54, 3.81, 5.08, 6.35, and 7.62 cm diameter) using a maximal voluntary exertion for a five-finger power grip and standardized postures. The third metacarpal bone was parallel to the axis of sensitivity to measure the force being exerted by the fingers against the palm. Each condition was presented to every subject in a random order and on a different day. The subjects were recruited from a manufacturing facility in the Midwest and consisted of a mixture of office and production personnel. Their ages ranged from 22 to 59 years. Hand length ranged from 15.2 cm to 20.9 cm. Two measurements were resolved into a force vector magnitude and associated force direction. On average, total grip force monotonically increased as handle diameter increased from 2.54 cm to 3.81 cm (30 N and 33 N increases for the left and right hands, respectively), and then decreased as diameter increased further. Average force direction for the resolved vector on the dominant hand was 57.5 degrees, 52.1 degrees, 46.7 degrees, 42.8 degrees and 36.3 degrees for handle diameters of 2.54 cm, 3.81 cm, 5.08 cm, 6.35 cm, and 7.62 cm respectively. The smallest contribution to the total force magnitude (39.3%) was produced in the direction where the fingertips opposed the thumb tip when the cylinder diameter was small. Conversely, the smallest contribution of the total force magnitude (42.1%) was produced in the direction where the fingertips opposed the palm when the cylinder diameter was large. These data are useful in the design of handles that require exertions to be directed in a specific direction relative to the hand.
An Electromyographic Study of Two Different Types of Ballpoint Pens
Authors: Udo Hiroshi
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study is to compare a New pen (N pen) with a conventional pen (C pen) for the load on the upper limb during 1 h writing. EMG of flexor pollicis brevis and the pain scores for thumb, forefinger, middle finger, forearm and shoulder were significantly lower for N pen than for C pen.
Implementation of an Ergonomics Strategy for a Global Casual Apparel Company
Authors: Nicholson A.S. , McNeice B.
Published: January 2012

Levi Strauss Europe, Middle East and Africa have adopted an ergonomics strategy. This paper reviews the main features of the strategy and the progress made to date.
The Effect of Age on Satisfaction of Workplace Ergonomics in the Metal Industry
Authors: Räsänen T , Laitinen H , Rasa P-L , Lankinen T
Published: January 2012

In this study the satisfaction with workplace ergonomics among different aged workers are compared to the researchers' observations. A U-shaped relation described the satisfaction of different age groups with the dimensions of the workplace and the physical load of the work. The oldest workers seemed to be “over satisfied” with the dimension of the workplace, the variability of the work and the repetitive work tasks compared to the researchers' assessment.
Influence of Job Stress on Muscle Activity and Spinal Loads
Authors: Davis K.G. , Marras W.S. , Heaney C.A. , Maronitis A.B.
Published: January 2012

This study evaluated the influence of psychosocial stress upon the biomechanical system and the subsequent spine loading during a lifting task. Twenty-five subjects (15 males and 10 females) performed several sagittally symmetric lifts under psychosocially stressful and non-stressful conditions. Trunk muscle activity, trunk kinematics, and trunk kinetics were used to evaluate three-dimensional spine loading using an EMG-assisted model. The lifts performed under psychosocial stress resulted in a statistically significant increase in spine compression and lateral shear, but not in all subjects. Differences in muscle coactivation accounted for these increases in loading due to the stress manipulation. A pathway between psychosocial stress and spine loading has been identified, which may explain how psychosocial stress at the workplace increases the risk of low back disorders.
Simulated Smoke Diving Activities Performed by Male and Female Firefighters
Authors: Fatollahzadeh Kianoush
Published: January 2012

Firefighting is considered as one of the most demanding and dangerous occupation in our society. Traditionally, firefighting has been a male dominated occupation. However, in recent decades the participation and role of females as firefighters has increased significantly. The objective of the present study was to examine physiological responses of male and female firefighters to light vs. heavy simulated smoke diving activities. A simulated smoke diving was designed and conducted. The methodological approach consisted of objective (blood pressure and Hrs) as well as subjective (mood and questionnaire) measurements. The subjects were seventeen full-time male and seven part-time female firefighters who volunt***eered to perform two separate Light vs. Heavy Experiment (LE and HE respectively), one at a time. During the LE (implemented method), subjects were asked to wear modified respiratory apparatus and using a special designed sleigh for evacuation of the injured. In the HE (females did not participate due to circumstances), males were asked to repeat the same procedures as in LE while wearing their old and heavier respiratory apparatus and to carry the injured by their conventional method (without utilizing sleigh). The results of analysis showed that, unexpectedly, the Hrs of the male firefighters during HE were significantly lower in all procedures of the work when compared with the males and females during LE. The females' Hrs were also significantly higher than males' Hrs in both LE and HE conditions. Regarding the moods, females in general reported to have significantly higher degree of control, calmness, social orientation, pleasantness, activation and extra version in the end of the experiment when compared with the males during LE and HE. The discrepancies (higher values) of Hrs during LE can be concluded and clarified by extra weight of sleigh and due to circumstances and the condition of fire house with narrow steps and gates which made it difficult and inconvenient to carry out the injured. Regarding the performance, women used a special technique in gripping and pulling the sleigh, which made it easier for them to carry out the tasks. Another interesting finding suggest that females reported higher degree of interest, motivation and task orientation than men did. This was despite females were less experienced and skilled when compared with men. Finally, the results of the study revealed that, in many respects, due to utilization method and technique the females perform the tasks at the same level as men and they did not report any inconveniences or discomfort. Therefore, special attempts should be made to encourage /motivate the women for further contribution to this occupation. The employer's image should also change positively on females' performance and capability in firefighting.
Predicting Trunk Kinematics Using Static Task Parameters
Authors: Nay D. Todd , Mirka Gary A. , Sommerich Carolyn M. , Dickey David A.
Published: January 2012

Parameters describing trunk dynamics have been shown to be related to low back injury risk. The objective of this paper was to develop a relationship between static workplace variables and trunk kinematic variables. The independent variables considered in this study consisted of the inputs to the Revised NIOSH Lifting Equation. These include the beginning and ending asymmetry location (five levels), horizontal distance (two levels), vertical height (three levels), and weight (two levels). A three-dimensional electrogoniometer (the Lumbar Motion Monitor) was used to record the trunk kinematics as the subjects performed these varied lifts. Thirty subjects (15 male, 15 female) performed 96 lifts. From this data set a series of regression models were developed. The models enabled us to estimate the position, velocity, and acceleration of the low back in the coronal, sagittal, and transverse planes for a given set of lifting task parameters.
The Use of Mirrors during an Assembly Task: A Study of Ergonomics and Productivity
Authors: Lutz Timothy J. , Smith Christy A. , Stewart Aaron M. , Starr Heather , Monroe Mike J. , Mirka Gary A.
Published: January 2012

Assembly jobs often require sustained, awkward neck and/or shoulder postures. It has been shown in previous studies that these postures increase musculoskeletal discomfort and can impact long-term productivity. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ergonomic interventions designed to eliminate these awkward postures. Subjects used a cordless screwdriver to drive screws into a pre-tapped aluminum block, simulating a simple assembly task. Four distinct assembly postures were tested: standard industry (in-line screwdriver, work at elbow height, no visual aid), pistol grip (pistol grip screwdriver, work at shoulder height, no visual aid), mirror (in-line screwdriver, work at elbow height, single mirror visual aid) and periscope (in-line screwdriver, work at elbow height, two mirror visual aids). Each was performed for fifteen minutes. Muscular activity, discomfort, postural deviation from neutral, productivity, and operator subjective assessment were recorded to determine the effects of the interventions. Both interventions (mirror and periscope) resulted in lower muscle activity, smaller postural deviations from neutral and lower subjective discomfort levels. Productivity, however, was highest in the standard industry posture followed by the pistol grip (9% lower), the periscope (13% lower) and the mirror posture (23% lower).
Using Ergonomics to Improve User Comfort, Working Conditions and Reduce Costs
Authors: McBride Peter , Bobjer Olle
Published: January 2012

The proper use of ergonomic programs and procedures for the manufacturing sector Will not only influence quality and productivity, but also the comfort and well being of the end-users; and at the same timebearing in mind the costs that maybe incurred as no company (no matter how big or small) has an “open” purse. With this in mind a program was put into operation, at Monkstown, to investigate and reduce where possible the risks within the manufacturing processes, and this in turn lead to a major cost reduction.
Ergonomic Evaluation of Space Shuttle Light-Weight Seat Lever Position and Operation
Authors: Rajulu Sudhakar L. , Maida James C.
Published: January 2012

During a Shuttle flight in the early part of 1999, one of the crewmembers was unable to operate the backrest lever for the new lightweight seat in microgravity. It is essential that the crewmembers are able to adjust this backrest lever. Hence, an experiment was designed to investigate the amount of pull force exerted by subjects, wearing an unpressurized or pressurized crew launch/escape suit, when controls were placed in the front and back (on the right side) of the lightweight seat. The results from this study showed that subjects were able to pull on the lever at the back position with only about half the amount of force that they were able to exert on the lever at the front position. The results also showed that subjects wearing the pressurized suit were unable to reach the seat lever when it was located at the back. The pull forces on the front lever diminished about 50% when subjects wore pressurized suits. Based on these results from this study, it was recommended to NASA that the levers should not be located in the back position. Further investigation is needed to determine whether the levers at the front of the seat could be modified or adjusted to increase the leverage for crewmembers wearing pressurized launch/escape suits.
A Comparative Evaluation of Job Techniques in the Tree Nursery Industry
Authors: Howard Ninica L. , Spielholz Peregrin , Bao Stephen
Published: January 2012

A pilot study was conducted as part of a larger project to assist a labor/management ergonomics team at a bareroot tree nursery in Washington State in developing potential solutions for reducing or eliminating risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Measurements were collected of employees performing the jobs of Bin Unloading, Grading/Counting and Bag Closing using two different work techniques and workstation settings. Muscle activity (electromyography) of the distal upper extremity and back motion (Lumbar Motion Monitor) on three axes were recorded to determine differences in the WMSD risk factors between techniques. Bin unloading was performed with a bin flat on the stand and with the bin raised and tilted towards the worker. For grading/counting, the conveyor belts used to move trees were arranged in a stacked configuration and a side-by-side configuration. Closing the bags was performed by rolling the bag with two people and by folding the bags with one person. Paired t-tests were used to compare EMG data between methods and a mixed model was used to analyze LMM data. In general, grading/counting trees from a side-by-side conveyor configuration appeared to have slightly higher levels of finger flexor muscle activity, higher deltoid EMG static levels and back velocity and acceleration than grading from an over-under configuration. However, the differences were significant only for acceleration on the side bending and rotational axis and velocity on the sagittal and rotational axis. Workers unloading seedlings from bins that were raised and tilted forward experienced higher static, median and peak muscle levels, but slightly lower back velocity and acceleration. However, these results were not statistically significant. Bag folding appeared to have significantly higher levels of musculoskeletal risk factors, including higher deltoid, flexor and extensor muscle activity and higher ranges of movement, velocities and accelerations of the back. However, the number of workers exposed is less than for bag rolling.
The Effect of Lumbar Support Prominence on Driver's Comfort and Body Pressure Distribution
Authors: Lim Sunghyun , Chung Min K. , Jung Jaewon , Na Seok H.
Published: January 2012

The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of lumbar support prominence on comfort and body pressure distribution of an automobile seat to determine the most favorable lumbar support prominence level during short-term driving. Fifteen male drivers drove the automobile on road for a distance of 3 km at 3 different levels of lumbar support prominence: 10 mm, 30 mm and 50 mm. The body pressure distributions were recorded, and subjective ratings on the whole body comfort and the discomfort at 10 body regions were evaluated as well. For subjective ratings on comfort and body pressure distribution, 10mm of lumbar support prominence was found to be most favorable in short-term driving. The ratios of body pressure variables varied among three measurement points of time: before driving, middle of driving and after driving. Therefore, it would be inappropriate to measure the body pressure distribution on the static seating buck or on the simulator in order to investigate the driver's comfort.
Impact of Work Organization on Labour Satisfaction and on Efficiency and Effectiveness of Enterprises
Authors: Mandilego Yolanda Arron
Published: January 2012

There are countless problems in enterprises directly related with work organization. Enterprises are neither efficient nor effective because of those problems. The work organization is relating to the design of work system. The process, the personnel, the activities, the technology and its environment must be defined. The analysis and results of the application of procedures for the design and evaluation of work system in two production process are shown in this paper.
Production of Handmade Crystal: Thermoregulation in Workers
Authors: Odebrecht Clarisse , Gonçalves Luciana de Oliveira
Published: January 2012

In the process of handmade crystal production, the function of collecting the glass melted in the mouth of refractory ovens as well as the function of different, has been receiving attention because of the precariousness in which the glass is made by the workers in opposition to the delicate beauty of the final product of the work. This review paper intends to show that researches demonstrate the physiologic conditions of individuals exposed to high temperatures, associating them with conditions of energy expense, metabolic alteration, gain of heat by irradiation, low protection and the forms of heat loss to compensate this gain maintaining the real effectiveness of the thermoregulation function.
Evaluating Change in Exposure to Risk for Musculoskeletal Disorders — A Practical Tool
Authors: Li Guangyan , Buckle Peter
Published: January 2012

A tool has been developed for health and safety practitioners to assess the exposure to workplace risks for work-related musculoskeletal disorders. The tool is based on the practitioners' needs and “state of the art” research findings. QEC has been tested, modified and validated using both simulated and real tasks, with the help of approximately 150 practitioners. The studies have shown that the tool has a high level of sensitivity and usability, and exhibits largely acceptable inter/intra-observer reliability. Field studies also indicate that the tool is, in practice, reliable and applicable for a wide range of tasks. With a short training period and some practice, assessment can normally be completed within approximately 10 minutes for each task.
Musculoskeletal Pain in School Children
Authors: Iyer Shruti R.
Published: January 2012

Children carrying heavy backpacks to school is slowly gaining visibility. The objective of this study was to determine if middle school children carrying backpacks, musical instruments, sports and personal items to school, develop musculoskeletal pain? If so, what would be a safe weight to carry? Presently, there are no standards on the safe weight for a school child to carry. However, medical professionals and ergonomists have recommended “common sense” guidelines - “Children should not carry more than 10 to 20 % of their body weight”. A subjective criteria using the mid-point of 15%, was used as the Reference Standard for this study. Students aged 11.1 to 14.5 yr. were studied after obtaining parental consent. They provided information about their carrying habits, and subjective musculoskeletal pain locations. They were weighed with and without carry-on items. The results showed that about 60% of the schoolchildren have musculoskeletal pain, located primarily in the neck, shoulders and back. The data is statistically inconclusive on the safe carry-on weight. A detailed study of all the variables affecting pain, using an objective pain criteria should be conducted to develop the safe carry-on weight.
Adverse Work Stress Reactions — A Review of the Potential Influence on Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDS)
Authors: Devereux J. J. , Buckle P.W.
Published: January 2012

Available data show that work stress and work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are the leading occupational health burdens in Member States of the European Union. Cross-sectional data do no provide a clear indication of the impact of work stress upon WMSDs. Studies have used different indicators for stress and this makes comparison between them more difficult. Similar workplace risk factors, including physical and psychosocial, seem to be associated with work stress and WMSDs. Stress has been implicated in the pathology of WMSDs but many hypotheses require further investigation. There is some epidemiological evidence to support work stress reactions as a predictor of WMSDs and a weighted reciprocal relationship may also exist between these two health problems. However, more longitudinal studies are required to clarify this issue.
Effect of Cycle Time and Duty Cycle on Muscle Activity during a Repetitive Manual Task
Authors: Moore Anne E.
Published: January 2012

Lack of rest of the so called “Cinderella” fibres during repetitive or static tasks has been suggested as one cause for local metabolic disturbances leading to muscle pain. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of duty cycle and cycle time on the ability of the muscle to rest during a simulated screw running task. Eight females sat at an adjustable workstation and grasped a cylindrical handle driven by a computer controlled torque motor. The motor applied 1.4 Nm of torque at combinations of one of four cycle times (3, 6, 12 and 20 s) and 3 duty cycles (25, 50 and 83% of time). While working, hand torque, hand grip force and EMG from the extensor carpi radialus brevis muscle were measured. “Biomechanical” duty cycles were calculated from the division of the mean of the whole cycle by the mean of the “work” portion of the cycle. A gap analysis was performed (EMG amplitude below .5% MVC for at least .2 s). The results show that biomechanical duty cycles (force and EMG) are longer than the applied motor duty cycle. The increase in duty cycle was greater for muscle than hand force and greatest at 25% motor duty cycle. At 83% applied duty cycle, the increase in muscle biomechanical duty cycle was such that EMG activity occupied more than 90% of the cycle time. The gap analysis showed that with short cycle times (< 6 s) the amount of time available for the muscle to completely shut off is reduced with increased potential for musculoskeletal disorders.
Effect of Wrist Posture on Discomfort for Simple Repetitive Exertions
Authors: Carey Eilís J. , Gallwey Timothy J.
Published: January 2012

This study investigated the effects of exertion, pace and level of simple and combined flexion/extension and radial/ulnar deviation of the wrist on discomfort for simple repetitive exertions. Eight male subjects participated in the study and the level of exertion and angular deviation were defined relative to the maximum strength and Range of Motion (ROM) of the subjects respectively. Extreme flexion caused higher discomfort than the other simple types of deviation, and the combination of flexion and ulnar deviation resulted in higher discomfort than the other types of combined deviation. Exertion was the most significant factor, followed by level of deviation.
Ergonomic Intervention Studies for Improved Musculoskeletal Health: A Review of the Literature and some Implications for Practitioners
Authors: Westgaard Rolf H. , Winkel Jørgen
Published: January 2012

This paper discusses prerequisites for successful ergonomics intervention on basis of a recent critical review of ergonomic intervention studies. The conclusions in the review are examined on the basis of studies published after completion of the literature search for the review. Finally, we present and discuss own experiences regarding the intervention process.
Musculoskeletal Ill Health among UK Cleaners
Authors: Woods Valerie , Buckle Peter
Published: January 2012

This two year study of musculoskeletal health problems among UK cleaners incorporated the findings from questionnaire surveys, workplace assessments, laboratory trials and focus groups. Higher than expected prevalence rates of musculoskeletal pain and discomfort were identified among cleaners. The main areas affected were: elbows, knees, right wrist and hand, lower back, neck, and right shoulder. The proportion of cleaners seeking medical advice was high (52%). 23% reported taking time off work in the year prior to the study because of these problems, providing some measure of the probable cost of these disorders to employers, society and individuals. Work factors were found to be associated with an increase in risk for musculoskeletal problems among the study group. These included the unsuitable design of equipment, specific work tasks and postures and poor work organisation.
The Occurrence of Back Pain in School Children and Exposure to Risk Factors in Schools can they be Measured?
Authors: Murphy Authors , Buckle P.
Published: January 2012

Back pain is a significant financial burden on industry and the economy, but more importantly it is the cause of suffering and disability to countless individuals. Therefore if the symptoms and risk factors of back pain could be identified at an early stage, the opportunities for remedial action would be improved. The study aims to identify the extent of back pain experienced by 11 to 14 year old school children, and establish the intensity, duration and frequency of exposure to mechanical risk factors present in schools. The following criteria were formulated to meet the study objectives, The method should record the intensity, duration, and frequency of the exposure, be continuous, unobtrusive, valid, reliable and feasible. None of the existing methods satisfied all the criteria, therefore new methods must be developed, or those methods which came closest to fulfilling the criteria, might be adapted to suit the participants and the research setting.
Work-Relatedness and Threshold Limit Values for Back Disorders due to Exposure to whole Body Vibration
Authors: Village Judy , Lott Murray
Published: January 2012

Threshold limit values (TLVs) for exposure to occupational whole body vibration (WBV) are proposed based on a review of epidemiological literature and of standards and guidelines available. When TLVs are applied to exposure data for various heavy equipment reported in the literature, conclusions are made about the likelihood of various equipment types contributing to occupational back disorders due to exposure to WBV.
Ergonomics in Construction: Where Does it Hurt?
Authors: Smallwood John , Wheeler Claire , Venter Danie
Published: January 2012

Construction requires, inter alia, bending and twisting, working in awkward or cramped positions, reaching away from the body and overhead, repetitive movements, handling heavy materials and equipment, use of body force, exposure to vibration and noise, and climbing and descending.

Interviews conducted with workers using a structured questionnaire and a graphic inquiry determined, inter alia: the hands, feet and lower back are mostly used; the lower and upper back hurt most, and climbing and descending, and handling heavy materials predominate among ergonomic problems encountered.
Effect of Step Height on Overhead Drilling in Construction
Authors: Anton Dan , Lee Shibley D. , Fethke Nathan B. , Hess Jennifer , Cook Thomas M. , Rosecrance John
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of moving closer to the work while performing overhead drilling. This task was simulated by twenty subjects while standing on either a lower or a higher step of a stepladder. Shoulder load was estimated by root-mean-square amplitude of electromyographic (EMG) activity and cinematographic analysis to determine shoulder joint moment using static link segment modeling. The results indicated that moving closer to the work surface by moving up a step reduces shoulder joint moment and anterior deltoid EMG. However, biceps brachii EMG increased by moving up a step. There was no significant change noted in EMG median frequencies suggesting that fatigue was not a significant factor. We conclude that while moving up a step reduces the muscular load on some muscles and the shoulder joint, other muscles may work harder. There are also safety considerations regarding moving up a step and alternative methods to move closer to the work surface are suggested.
Strategies to Identify Lifting Tasks in Scaffolding with Highest Priority for Intervention
Authors: van der Beek Allard J. , Mathiassen Svend Erik , Burdorf Alex , Windhorst Judith , Frings-Dresen Monique H.W. , van der Molen Henk F.
Published: January 2012

The aim of this study was to compare ranking orders of scaffolders' tasks resulting from data obtained using four different measurement strategies. Tasks were ranked according to their physical load during lifting. The strategies were: 1) thorough application of the NIOSH lifting equation (NIOSH strategy), 2) thorough application of the lifting guideline for the Dutch construction industry (Arbouw strategy), 3) ‘quick and dirty’ application of the NIOSH lifting equation (practitioners' strategy), and 4) systematic observation.

All strategies based on the NIOSH lifting equation (NIOSH, Arbouw and practitioners' strategy) resulted in about the same ranking order: transport-constructing-taking down. However, with respect to the task transport the results obtained by systematic observations were completely opposite from those obtained using the other strategies. The main underlying cause was that in the observations relative durations of tasks and lifting within the tasks played an important role in the ranking. The three other strategies were less sensitive to exposure duration.
Evaluation of Head and Neck Postures
Authors: Delleman Nico J.
Published: January 2012

This paper describes the literature and two experiments on the evaluation of head and neck postures. It is concluded that health and safety professionals and ergonomists during posture evaluation should consider neck flexion/extension (head vs. trunk), besides the traditionally used inclination of the head and/or neck segment (head/neck vs. gravity).
A Simple Risk Assessment Tool for use in Ergonomics Participatory Processes
Authors: Mairiaux Ph. , Vandoorne C.
Published: January 2012

Following a request by the Belgian Ministry of Labor, a practical guide has been developed for the prevention and evaluation of risks related to manual handling. This 93 pages guide is intended not only for prevention experts but also for the workers and their supervisors. A separated part of the guide, the ***<>, has been designed for use at the workplace in order to assist those people in identifying the risk factors of their own work tasks and selecting prevention measures. The actual usability of this tool has been analyzed in a participatory ergonomics intervention in an engineering plant
The Occurrence of Musculo-Skeletal Alterations in Worker Populations not Exposed to Repetitive Tasks of the Upper Limbs
Authors: Colombini D. , Occhipinti E. , Grieco A.
Published: January 2012

A total of 749 workers 310 males and 439 females, both aged between 15 and 55 years performing task not at risk for WMSDs of the upper limbs, underwent a clinical examination using a standardized method. Of the 1498 limbs examined, the prevalence of the main diseases reported were: CTS (2,5% among the female aged >35 years); wrist-hand tendinitis (0,9% among the males aged >35 years, 0,9% among the females aged 15–35 years). The number of workers with at least one WMSDs was: males (3,5% in >35 years age), females (2,3% in the 15–35 years age, 7,2% in the >35 years age; 3,9% of total sample population.
Ergonomic Vehicle Development Process and Production at Adam Opel Ag (GM-EUROPE) with Respect to European Legislation
Authors: Schaub Karlheinz G. , Dietz Christoph
Published: January 2012

During the recent 10 years several EU Directives for the improvement of ergonomics and health and safety at work have been implemented. In order to comply with these regulations (during production as well as in the design phase) a “New Production Worksheet” (NPW) has been created in a joint research project of the International Technical Development Center (ITDC) of Adam OPEL AG, Rüsselsheim and the Ergonomics Institute, Darmstadt University of Technology (IAD). This worksheet is based on relevant EU Directives, existing GM Europe methodology and other international methods, that reflect the current state of the art in Ergonomics. The NPW was developed and tested at the Vectra assembly line at the OPEL Rüsselsheim Plant.
Future Trends and Product Design
Authors: Jordan Patrick W.
Published: January 2012

Eight trends are described. These have been synthesized from the predictions of five of the worlds leading trends institutes and represent the common wisdom of the world's leading trend forecasters. Potential consequences of these trends for design are described. It is concluded that understanding the consequences of such trends is an essential step towards creating products which are a real joy to own and use.
Please be Seated
Authors: Vitalis A. , Marmaras N. , Poulakis G. , Legg S.
Published: January 2012

This paper reports on a study investigating how office chairs are being used, whether they are being used properly, and what knowledge workers have of the potential benefits of correct use. Results indicate that workers received little by way of instruction and that many if not most of the features are under utilised.
The History of Ergonomics in Brazil
Authors: Santana Carolina , Fialho Francisco Antonio Pereira
Published: January 2012

Brazilian Ergonomics occupies an important position among the Portuguese and Spanish speakers' countries. The born of Ergonomics in Brazil is marked by a ‘pragmatic reasoning’, favoring an Applied Ergonomics instead of a more Psychological one. Up to now one of the typicality of Ergonomics in Brazil is the high number of Ergonomists that is Engineers. Brazilian ergonomics is applied inside a social-political context. Most of the significant changes happened under syndicates' persuasions. The biggest concern of the Brazilian workers is still not with a work taking their constrains into consideration. The fight for survival predominates, and even more in a world situation where employment is being diminished by an aggressive automation process.
Product-Ergonomic Evaluation of Pliers Handles Through Electromyographic and Subjective Methods
Authors: Kluth K. , Zühlke D. , Strasser H.
Published: January 2012

In a comparative investigation 8 diagonal cutting nippers were evaluated with regard to their ergonomic quality. By means of a mobile measuring system for the recording of peripheral-physiological data, the physiological strain of 4 muscles of the right hand-arm system was objectified with the help of surface electromyography. A special device facilitated the standardized execution of the tests and the determination of maximal force for the standardization of the electromyographic activity (EA). A specific, bipolar questionnaire allowed the subjective assessment, e.g., of the handle design and dimensions, of the shape of the arched handle contour, the slip-guard, and the hand suitability during hand perspiration as well as the assessment of 2-component handles. The objective data and the subjective evaluation allowed conclusions about the design criteria and about favorable and unfavorable variants of the assessed diagonal cutting nippers.
Can Teams Outperform Individuals in a Simulated Dynamic Control Task?
Authors: Glynn Steven J. , Henning Robert A.
Published: January 2012

Dynamic control tasks, such as teleoperation, are often performed by one person. Previous researchers have focused on methods for extending the capabilities of this sole operator. The present study compared the performance of individuals and two-person teams on a simulated space teleoperation task. Forty-eight undergraduate and graduate psychology students participated as part of a larger study. Participants performed a computer-based teleoperation simulation (based on Li, 1998) both individually and in two-person teams (n=24). Results indicated that teams outperformed individuals on two of three performance measures: path completion time and damage caused by collisions with the path wall. These results indicate that team-control may be a viable option in dynamic control tasks such as teleoperation. Real-world applications of these findings are discussed.
Dynamic Tethering for Enhanced Remote Control and Navigation
Authors: Colquhoun Herman W. , Milgram Paul
Published: January 2012

Misalignments between display and control reference frames complicate execution of many remote control tasks by loading the operator's attentional resources with mental transformations. It is thus important to maintain alignment between an operator's controls and her view of the controlled object or task space. Maximising the operator's situational awareness within this task space by providing an optimal frame of reference also simplifies task execution. Traditional rigid tethering integrates desirable egocentric and exocentric aspects of a display by connecting an exocentric view of the task space to the system being controlled. This paper introduces the concept of dynamic tethering (a superset of rigid tethering) which also preserves the principle of the moving part while maintaining control-display motion compatibility. Two experiments are presented, which show that compliance with these principles decreases the frequency of control reversals, improves reaction times, and decreases the RMS error associated with tracking performance.
Factors Associated with Changes of the Work Ability Index in Policemen: A Three-Year Program
Authors: Soininen Heikki , Louhevaara Veikko
Published: January 2012

Policemen (n=505) participated in a three-year program for promoting health and work ability. Principally, physical activity and fitness increased, cardiovascular risk factors decreased but the Work ability index (WAI) decreased and the work related stress symptoms increased. There were subjects whose WAI increased more than two points, and they had less stress and higher work satisfaction after the program.
Better Work Environment for Small Companies in Sweden
Authors: Sundström Lars
Published: January 2012

The Department of Human Work Sciences at Luleå University of Technology, Sweden, has, since the autumn of 1991, been conducting a research project that offers a free advisory service regarding matters of the working environment to companies with fewer than 50 employees. The model used has offered the companies 16 hours' free advisory service and an additional 75 hours at half price. The project is financed by the Swedish Council for Work Life Research. We are offering this service to all types of small companies - both those, which produce goods and those, which produce services. A total of 148 small companies have contacted us. At present we are evaluating the improvement process in these companies. The material presented in this paper represents only a part of the evaluation. In the evaluation we have been interested in answering the following questions, among others.

- Why is the company interested in issues concerning the working environment?

- What advantages does the company derive from an improved working environment?

- Does an improved working environment, with the introduction of new technology, result in any financial gains?
Rsi Prevention: A Brazilian Negotiated Programme
Authors: Maciel Regina Heloisa
Published: January 2012

RSI is one of the main causes of lost working days in the bank sector in Brazil. In view of that the Trade Unions (Employers and Employees) negotiated a RSI Prevention Program recommended to the bank institutions, that contains a guide for preventive actions. This report discuss an evaluation of the application of the Program by the bank institutions after a period of one year of its recommendation. The evaluation shows that some institutions have implemented parts of the program, but the number of RSI cases among bank employees requires a large amount of changes and preventive actions.
Virtual Reality in Air Traffic Control
Authors: Akselsson R. , Källqvist C , Bednarek V , Cepciansky M. , Trollås A. , Davies R. , Eriksson J. , Olsson R. , Johansson G.
Published: January 2012

Air traffic control is a highly spatial work. However, there are currently no three-dimensional tools used in the education of air traffic controllers or in the operational work of air traffic control. This paper presents results from some pilot studies aiming to:

– Find new techniques for visualisation and editing of trajectories in air traffic control – Investigate how Virtual Reality (VR) can contribute to the air traffic controllers' understanding of the air space and of certain situations. Two VR models have been developed. In one model a procedure called ‘holding’ is visualised. In the other VR model the different sectors in the air space are shown to make it easier for the air traffic controller to build a mental picture of a sector. In a training package the user can fly around in the sector and see how traffic passes through.

These introductory studies indicate the usefulness of new ways to present the third dimension in a variety of air traffic situations. The tools can be used to visualise a three dimensional situation and help the air traffic controller to build a mental model. The most obvious application area is in training and education of air traffic controllers but other applications such as an explanation and communication tool in the investigation after an incident are of interest.
The Human-Machine Paradigm Paradox and Limitations in Equipment Design
Authors: Yap Boi Leong
Published: January 2012

The ergonomics and design disciplines, together with technology have continued to produce complex systems and equipment that are more compatible to the abilities of its users. The human-machine system which is firmly rooted in ergonomics implies an interdisciplinary “science-design paradigm” for the ergonomic design of systems and equipment. This paper argues that the human-machine paradigm that underpins fundamental ergonomics principles and system theory for equipment design is incongruous to the design process at the cognitive, process and practical levels. Some of the major problems and conflicts encountered by product designers in the application of ergonomics data in the design process and the incompatibilities between the scientific methods of ergonomics and the subjective methods of design are discussed. A paradigm shift to a design-led approach for equipment design is proposed along with case studies (presented at the Congress), to demonstrate the nature and effectiveness of the new quasi-science paradigm.
Some Causes of Errors Using Anthropometric Data when Designing Products and Workstations
Authors: Quaresma Manuela , de Moraes Anamaria , Cardoso Vânia Maria Batalha
Published: January 2012

When we mention anthropometry nowadays it looks a pre-historian subject. Nevertheless people complains about dimensional errors in products and workstation with problems to the user comfort and to the system safety. The data are available - a lot of research with different population -; what is the problem? In this paper the results of interviews with designers are presented as an attempt to explain the reason for the misuse of anthropometric data and the most common errors applying anthropometry to design of products and workstation.
A Study on Range of Joint Movement for Korean Adults
Authors: Yoon Hoon-Yong , Lee Sang-Do , Lee Dong-Choon
Published: January 2012

This study was performed to determine the voluntary range of movements for Korean adults at the age between 18 and 60. Three hundred and eighteen males and 260 females participated for this study. Twenty-seven body movements at various joints were conducted to measure the range of movements. Subjects were grouped by age into three to analyze the differences of range of movements due to the aging. The age ranged for the first group was from 18 to 29. The second group ranged from 30 to 39, and the last group ranged from 40 to 60. The data were also analyzed to see the differences of range of movements between sexes. The results show that female subjects have larger range of movements than male subjects in hip movement (hip adduction and abduction), knee movement (knee rotation medial and lateral), neck movement (right flexion, dorsal flexion, right rotation), wrist movement (wrist extension and adduction), elbow flexion and shoulder extension (p<0.05). On the other hand, male subjects have larger range of movements than female subjects in wrist abduction, wrist flexion, forearm supination, shoulder rotation (lateral), shoulder adduction, knee flexion (standing), ankle flexion, hip flexion, and hip rotation medial (sitting). (p<0.05). Generally, the range of movements decrease with ages, however, some range of joint movements such as wrist flexion and extension show increase with ages for both male and female subjects. To apply these data in designing products or workplace, the designers may need serious consideration to the limiting factor of incidence of arthritis due to the aging.