bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Validation of a Dynamic Biomechanical Model for Power Hand Tool Torque Build-up Reaction Force
Authors: Lin Jia-Hua , Radwin Robert G. , Richard Terry G.
Published: January 2012

This study models the human power hand tool operator as a dynamic single degree of freedom mechanical system for predicting the response to torque reaction forces produced by rotating spindle tools such as nutrunners or drills. The model represents the hand as mass, spring and damping elements that are dependent upon the posture used and the individual operator. It therefore considers tool shape (i.e., in-line, pistol, right angle), tool orientation (i.e., horizontal or vertical), horizontal location from the ankles, and vertical location from the ankles, in addition to gender. The apparatus used to quantify these elements measured the vibration frequency and amplitude change after an initial disturbance to a defined mechanical system. Twenty-five subjects (13 female, 12 male) participated in the experiment. A repeated measures design tested the effects of gender, work location, tool shape, and torque direction on the three passive elements in the model. The results show that stiffness for pistol grip and right angle handle used on a horizontal surface changed by 12% ( p<.01) and inertial mass parameter changed by 29% ( p<.001). Horizontal location was a significant factor for stiffness and inertial mass parameter for all four handle conditions.
Field Evaluation of the Revised Niosh Lifting Equation
Authors: Dempsey Patrick G. , Sorock Gary S. , Cotnam John P. , Ayoub M.M. , Westfall Peter H. , Maynard Wayne , Fathallah Fadi , O'Brien Niall
Published: January 2012

The preliminary results of a prospective epidemiological study of the revised NIOSH lifting equation are presented. The baseline evaluations included assessment of lifting and lowering tasks with the revised NIOSH equation, as well as a questionnaire regarding personal variables. Subject follow-up was primarily accomplished through postal questionnaires, telephone interviews, and surveillance for workers' compensation claims for low-back disorders. The preliminary results reported are based on approximately 375 person-years of exposure; however, the follow-up period is still in progress. Important findings related to the usability of the revised NIOSH equation across several types of common exposures are also discussed.
Ergonomic Approach of Cutting Process for Semiconductor Packaging Plants
Authors: Lu Chihwei , Ou Y.
Published: January 2012

The objective of this study is to develop a prevention program by means of ergonomic job analysis to find the potential ergonomic hazards of copper-slice cutting procedure in the IC packaging factory, the ergonomic job analysis method, moment and time measure, BRIEF ergonomic checklist and have been used to identify whether this cutting procedure is an ergonomic hazard process or not. The anthropometry data of operators has been collected and the maximum muscle forces of fingers and hand have been measured. The layout of copper-slice cutting procedure was measured. The job activities have been recorded by Camcorder V8 for analysis. There are highly repetitive activities in copper-slice cutting procedure. These layouts need to be redesigned and reengineered. Work standing-chairs are recommended to install in the work zone for the rest of operators.
Ergonomics and Safety Checklist Evaluation for Semiconductor Manufacture Workers
Authors: Lu Chihwei , Chang Chingjong
Published: January 2012

Semiconductor industries have rapidly become one of the most important industries in Taiwan. Due to the technology promotion and productivity growth, operators have to move more quickly and handle more heavy material in new plants than they did in old plants. Ergonomics checklists were generated for in plant survey. Equipment Safety checklist have been developed to survey facilities or machines in chip fabrication Plants. Moreover, Equipment Safety checklist will be a tool to help IC plants to pass the quality of SEMI-S validation. The results show that SEMI-EC is an appropriate checklist to detect most kinds of ergonomic hazards in semiconductor plants and BRIEF is an appropriate checklist for the operators' musculoskeletal problems investigation.
Human Factors in Assembly Process
Authors: Kawecka-Endler Aleksandra
Published: January 2012

Quality at every stage its formation through contact with man, who directly or indirectly takes part in this process, is inseparably connected with ergonomics. It is a result of exact connection and correlation, which appear between forms of work organization, ergonomics of work condition and quality, which is received in these conditions. The real part in formation of high level of quality has system, which controls the production quality.
The Set of Ergonomic Design Criteria
Authors: Tytyk Edwin
Published: January 2012

Traditional design methods do not ensure obtaining the required high level of machines ergonomicity since they treat the designed object as a technical production. Ergonomic design is a variant of engineering design in which ergonomic criteria are the decisive and superordinated ones and at same time the system: man - machine - environment is the object of design. It results from the above mentioned assumptions that traditional engineering design processes may prove to be inadequate to realize a new and wider purpose. That is why, it is necessary to elaborate such design method which would offer the greatest probability of obtaining a high level of ergonomic quality of design.
Assessment of Muscle Fatigue during Load Carrying
Authors: Bonato Paolo , Kothiyal Kamal , Roy Serge H.
Published: January 2012

This paper presents preliminary results of a study to assess localized muscle fatigue during load carrying. The assessment procedure is based on parameters of the surface electromyographic (EMG) signal that allow one to measure changes in the amplitude and frequency content of the EMG data. Subjects were instructed to walk on a treadmill at 1.3 mph for approximately 10 minutes, carrying a standard box containing a weight equal to 10% of the subject's body weight. Foot switches and a two-camera motion analysis system were used to record walking cadence and kinematics of the task. EMG data were recorded bilaterally from the multifidus muscle at L5, the latissimus dorsii muscle at T10, the upper trapezius muscle, and the biceps brachii muscle. Preliminary analysis of the mechanics of movement indicated that only minor changes took place during the task. These changes appear to be mainly related to the observed decrease in stride length. Analysis of the EMG data showed that a considerable load was applied to the multifidus and the latissimus dorsii muscle as indicated by the amplitude of the EMG data that reached about 20 % of the EMG amplitude recorded during a maximum voluntary extension of the torso. The time-course of the root mean square (RMS) value of the EMG signal demonstrated an increase in the activation of the upper trapezius muscle during the task, indicating either increased force production or compensation for localized fatigue. Alternate phases of increase and decrease of the instantaneous median frequency (IMDF) was observed. This phasic behavior may reflect a load-sharing mechanism among muscle groups to minimize fatigue that is characterized by alternate phases of fatigue and recovery.
Palliative Interventions for Sedentary Low Back Pain: The Physiotherapy Ball, the Kneeling Chair and Conventional Ergonomics Compared
Authors: Bridger Robert S , Kloote Catherine , Rowlands Bronwyn , Fourie Gyn
Published: January 2012

Fifty four female secretarial/clerical workers volunteered to participate in a seating trial. All complained of chronic low back pain associated with sedentary work. An independent randomised groups design was used to compare three seating interventions aimed at reducing low back pain. Remedial ergonomics was carried out at all workstations. In the control condition, the existing chairs were adjusted to fit the users and footrests were supplied. In two experimental conditions, subjects used either a kneeling chair or a physiotherapy ball as a seat. Overall, reductions in self- rated low back pain were observed in the experimental but not the control group. The interpretation of the findings is, however, complicated by severe methodological challenges facing trials of this kind, not least of which is the differential subject response in the experimental groups. These challenges are summarised and some suggestions for overcoming the difficulties are made.
Detailed Physical Exposure Assessments in Ergonomics Field Studies
Authors: Bao Stephen , Silverstein Barbara , Spielholz Peregrin
Published: January 2012

One of the major ergonomics activities in SHARP is to identify risk factors which may cause work-related musculoskeletal disorders in workplaces and recommend effective solutions to help industries to improve their work conditions. Effective identification of risk factors and provision of specific solutions require a sensitive, valid and reliable measurement system. A continuous effort in SHARP has been to develop such a system to fulfill our goals. This paper discusses some major elements in the system, i.e. measurement of physical exposures of the operators, quantification and documentation of task distribution of jobs, and establishment of relationships between physical exposure measurement and task operations. Three field applications (wood processing, poultry processing and data entry jobs) of this measurement system are presented in this paper.
Direct Measurement Error Identification and Reporting for Upper Extremity Exposure Assessment
Authors: Spielholz Peregrin
Published: January 2012

Electrogoniometers currently represent the most feasible way of obtaining direct measurements of wrist and forearm posture and motion in varied work environments. Researchers have shown that a significant amount of error may be present in the recordings from these instruments (Buchholz and Wellman, 1997; Armstrong et al., 1993). This study showed that even with “state of the art” correction methods, wrist flexion/extension and wrist deviation duration measurements may still vary by as much as 100% plus or minus the measured result in the 95% confidence interval. Forearm extreme posture duration intervals were equal to or less than 40% of the calculated values. Wrist flexion/extension and forearm rotation repetition measurements were more accurate, giving confidence intervals plus or minus less than 25% of the resulting values. Wrist deviation repetition confidence intervals were wider, at plus or minus 100% or greater and generally including zero. These results highlight the need to address accuracy when reporting measurements of the upper extremities and to promote further research into the development of accurate measurement methods.
Biomechanical Analysis of Cashiers in Seated and Standing Postures
Authors: Lehman Katherine R. , Psihogios Jennie P.
Published: January 2012

A laboratory experiment was conducted to understand the effect of posture on the entire body during checkout work. This research provides a biomechanical and physiological evaluation of the cashier while working at a recommended checkstand in two different postures, sitting and standing, in order to provide recommendations for minimizing MSD risk potential for cashiers. Results showed higher muscle activity for the left and right deltoid, left and right levator scapulae, and left trapezius. A general trend followed such that sitting produced higher levels of muscle activity than standing for neck, shoulder, and back muscles. Static levels of muscle activity (p=0.1) were above recommended values of 2–5% MVC. Posture results showed that shoulder abduction was reduced when standing, although neck flexion increased. Recommendations for cashier workstations include centering the scanner relative to the cashier's mid-sagittal plane, while providing postural relief and the opportunity for the cashier to stand.
Trapezius Muscle Activity of Cash Register Work Compared to Department Work in the Supermarket
Authors: Sandsjö Leif , Melin Bo , Rissén Dag , Dohns Ingela , Lundberg Ulf
Published: January 2012

The MyoElectric (ME) activity from the trapezius muscle in 24 female supermarket employees doing cash register work were evaluated and compared to department work in the supermarket. The result shows that the cash register work typically is of a more static nature than the other tasks tested. Contrary to what was anticipated there were no major difference in the subject's ability to find muscle rest when doing work at the various departments at the supermarket compared to working at the cash register, however large individual differences were observed. The results indicates, that by introducing job rotation, where the cash register work is mixed with other work in the supermarket, the cashiers may be able to break the long-standing static activation of the neck and shoulder region and possibly prevent neck and shoulder pain to develop.
Lifting Limits of Rice-Bag-Carrying Tasks Using a Work Physiological Approach
Authors: Intaranont Kitti , Wiengpon Anakapon
Published: January 2012

An experiment was designed and conducted to accomplish the following objectives:

Comparison of the physiological responses, as measured during carrying activities in different sizes of rice-bags and in different types of carrying tasks. Development and testing of a mathematical model for the prediction of the acceptable weight of rice-bags carrying using the criterion of an individual's VO2 value at 30%VO2max, A sub-maximal exercise protocol was applied to predict the aerobic capacity (VO2max) using a bicycling exercise protocol. The physiological responses were heart rate (bpm) and oxygen consumption (1/min). The individual safe weight was considered as the dependent variables from the criteria 30%VO2max, and age, anthropometric data and strength data were used as the independent variables.

Ten male workers, 25–42 years of age, were paid to work as subjects of the experiment. All were employed to carry rice bags as their primary job.

The results of the experiment were analyzed using the analysis of variance procedure. The predictive models of the safe weight was developed using a backward multiple linear regression technique. The model was validated using 3 extra subjects. It was concluded that the model could reasonably predict the safe weight based on the 30%VO2max. It was suggested that the safe weight for the rice-bag be about 100 kg.
A Comparison of Males and Females during Asymmetric Lifting
Authors: Davis K.G. , Marras W.S. , Young D.P.
Published: January 2012

This study evaluated the differences in spinal loading between males and females while performing complex free-dynamic whole body lifts. Twenty males and twenty-five females performed sagittally symmetric and asymmetric lifting tasks from mid-shin and knee height origins. Only minor differences between males and females were found in three-dimensional spinal loads. The compressive loads for the females appeared to be independent of the experimental condition (e.g. lifting task or velocity). Females adopted a different kinematic pattern compared to males as well as recruited more antagonistic muscles when performing similar tasks. When spinal tolerance differences are considered, females would be expected to be more at risk of injury during typical lifting tasks.
Ventilation Challenge in Lifting with and without a Belt
Authors: Lee Yung-Hui , Lu Jam-Fu
Published: January 2012

The hypotheses tested in this research are: (1) does the frequency and the volume of ventilation increases when lifting with a belt; (2) does the frequency and the volume of ventilation increases more when wearing a belt with a larger tension. The result of this study indicated a significant increase in breath-by-breath respiration (difference between the post-lifting and the pre-lifting ventilation) while wearing the belt during low workload and repetitive lifting task. There are also evidence showed that the mechanism responsible for modulating the breath was different when lifting with and without the belt.
Ergonomics in the Execution Stage of the Work: What Can Be Done between Design and Use of the Work Environment?
Authors: Duarte Francisco José de Castro Moura , Cordeiro Cláudia Vieira Carestiato
Published: January 2012

The participation in the project of the work environment in the Integrated Control Center (ICC) of a brazilian petrochemical industry leads us to discuss the reconception that takes place during the construction stage and the role of an ergonomics team in this stage of the projet process.
Effective Reduction in Workplace Injuries Through Implementation of Integrated OH & S Management Systems
Authors: Caple David C
Published: January 2012

The long term sustained reduction in all injuries, including musculo-skeletal disorders, was assessed in this study through a series of intervention programs in large government and private employers.

The study included two large government employers with 8,000 and 10,000 employees working out of 150 and 200 geographically spread workplaces respectively. It also included a network of public hospitals, and a series of 20 case studies involving private companies who participated in an OH & S management system auditing program. A financial incentive was provided by the workers compensation insurer to those companies who scored well in this audit.

The studies found that a range of key imperatives were common amongst those workplaces where sustained reductions in reported injuries was achieved.

Such imperatives provided a foundation for the identification and implementation of prevention initiatives to address MSD's. The ad hoc approach to introducing ergonomics workplace modifications, on a case by case basis was found to be less effective when compared to this approach as part of an integrated OH & S management system.
The Biomechanical Evaluation of Biomedical Products Assembly Process
Authors: Guimarás C. P , Naveiro R. M. , Pereira J. E. A.
Published: January 2012

This paper adresses the topic of assembly process evaluation using biomechanical criteria in order to assess the posture and work load of operators involved in the assembly of small plastic products. The labor activity will be recorded using a videocinematography system called Biomec which is capable to capture the human movements and map the data acquired to biomechanical parameters. A pilot study will be conducted in advance, to analyse the planes of movement and the number of cameras that will be necessery for the study. The captured image is freezed and digitalized by the software Biomec into a human model composed of wire framed segments that represent the human segments The biomechanical model is treated by Biomec in order to calculate the biomechanical parameters involved in the assembly work. The methodology of getting data is composed of the following steps: a first shot of the situation is performed in order to raise the initial problems. In sequence the relevant data is identified and it is proceeded the constrution of the biomechanical model of the human segments involved. A second shot is undertaken to treat the data using the Biomec capability in order to evaluate the stresses involved and postural constraints. The final result is the analysis of the work situation and recommendations to improve the workstation.
Key Elements of an Ergonomics Process: Developing Surveillance Tools to Evaluate Risk Factors
Authors: Joseph Bradley S. , Reeve Gordon , Kilduff Helen A. , Hall-Counts Joyce , Long Mickey , Long Mickey
Published: January 2012

Risk is defined as the exposure to the chance of injury or loss. Developing models or methods to evaluate the level of risk for a particular exposure comes from controlled experimentation. Cumulative trauma disorders are one type of loss that contributes to significant pain and suffering for people and for the industry in which these people work. However, no simple model exists which show how physical risk factors may contribute to the development of cumulative trauma disorders. This paper concentrates on efforts to evaluate ergonomic risk and associated outcomes on manufacturing and assembly jobs using existing ergonomic assessment tools to accurately assess risk. This paper concentrates on preliminary results as it relates to the upper extremity.
A Neuro-Fuzzy Model for Predicting EMG of Trunk Muscles Based on Lifting Task Variables
Authors: Lee WookGee , Karwowski Waldemar , Marras William S.
Published: January 2012

This paper discusses development of a neuro-fuzzy expert model for predicting electromyographic (EMG) responses of trunk muscles in manual lifting based on task. The model utilizes two task variables, i.e. trunk moment and trunk velocity, as inputs, and ten muscle activities as outputs. The input and output variables are represented using the fuzzy membership functions. Initial fuzzy rules are generated by neural networks using true EMG data. The refined fuzzy rules are used to derive the prediction model. The model was developed based on EMG data for 8 subjects, and validated using the EMG data for another 4 subjects. The model allowed to predict the normalized EMG values with the mean absolute error ranging from 4.97% to 13.16% (average = 8.43%, SD=2.87%), and average value of the mean absolute difference between the real and predicted EMG of 6.4% (SD=3.39%). It is concluded that prediction of EMG responses in manual lifting tasks is feasible, and that model performance could be improved by increasing the number of lifting task variables.
Estimation of Manual Work and Moment / Force at Joints in Load Lifting in Sagittal Plane by Different Paths
Authors: Bepari Bikash , Banerjee Sushanta , Tibarewala D. N. , Lahiri B. N.
Published: January 2012

This paper suggests action cost as a better parameter to analyse human factors. Vertical load lifting in sagittal plane has been studied extensively with different models and are available in literatures (Chaffin, 1982 Helander 1996). In this paper a specific load of given dimension is considered and is lifted from ground to a table of waist height. Five different paths of lifting are considered using a manikin model of a particular stature, avoiding interference of the load with the body. The task time for lifting the load from initial to final state is the same (5.5 sec) for all the paths. Static equilibrium is assumed to be maintained at all the configurations to calculate moments at different joints. Action is defined as the cumulative work being done by one subject over the task duration time and is measured from the area under the cumulative work-time plot. The action involved in performing the task in different paths is taken as the cost function for the analysis.
Exploring the Optimum Train Seat Dimensions for Passengers' Comfort Postures
Authors: Lee Hyun Young , Park Se Jin , Kim Han Kyung , Kim Chul Jung , Koo Jea Kwang
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the train seat dimensions suitable for keeping comfortable postures. We designed a special experimental seat of which the lengths and angles are adjustable separately. Seat dimensions keeping subjects comfortable were measured for the restricted posture and the extended posture. The differences of dimensions for the two postures and the body sizes of subjects were statistically analyzed. The correlation coefficients between seat dimensions and subjects' heights and weight were also calculated.
Improvement of Working Capacity and Well-Being in a Small Electronic Enterprises
Authors: Anttonen Hannu , Kopperoinen Iiris
Published: January 2012

It has been estimated that more than 20 % of GDP is lost each year as a result of illness and accidents. Losses caused by illness on a national scale can be prevented by influencing the health and working capacity of employees. Better health and working capacity reduce personnel costs. In 1996 our experts contracted with the 12 SME -enterprises including 500 workers. The aim of the study was to improve workers health ability. The questionnaires distributed in this project to the employees comprised questions (80) aimed at charting their professional expertise, their working environment and their physical and mental welfare. After two years many-sided intervention by training and psychological activities the questionnaire was made again. In this way the employees evaluated the improvements and changes. During the project 4 500 personal training days were given, 500 work place survey were occurred and 2 000 telephone calls were done by consultants. The most common harmful impact factors in the working environment were soldering fumes, bad smells, dust, and cold or draft. All these factors related to the level of physical well-being experienced by individuals. The most desired courses related to development of work community, psychosocial support, professional competence, work environment especially work conditions and ergonomic, ADP and languages. About 50% of workers informed about positive changes mostly related to ergonomic, work community and lifestyle. The response was also very clear, which kinds of interventions are effective.
Patient Transfers and the Preventive Effects for Over-Exertion Back Injury of Training and use of Transfer Devices among Nursing Personnel
Authors: Engkvist Inga-Lill , Hjelm Ewa Wigaeus , Hagberg Mats
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND: Nursing personnel have a high prevalence of occupational back injuries compared to other occupational groups.

AIM: The aim of this study was to investigate the preventive effects of training and use of transfer devices for reported over-exertion back injuries among nursing personnel involved in patient transfer.

RESULTS: Nurses who transferred patients once or more per shift had an increased relative risk (RR=3.3, 95%CI=2.2–5.1). Nurses who had got training in how to use the transfer devices on their own ward showed a lower relative risk for patient transfer (RR=1.6, CI=0.9–2.8) compared to nurses without training (RR=6.0, CI=3.0–12.0). Also the use of transfer devices in ≥1/4 of all patient transfers, reduced the relative risk (RR=1.5, CI=0.6–3.4) compared to nurses who seldom used devices (RR=3.9, CI=2.3–6.6)

DISCUSSION: The results show the importance of training the nurses in how to use the transfer devices on their wards and to encourage the nurses to use the transfer devices frequently during patient transfer. This presupposes that necessary and good transfer devices are available on all wards.
Endurance time as a Function of the Percentage of Maximum Voluntary Contraction and Upper Extremity Posture in Healthy Females
Authors: Garg Arun , Hegmann Kurt T.
Published: January 2012

Endurance times were measured on 12 female subjects for seven different %MVCs and five different shoulder postures. Endurance time decreased nonlinearly with an increase in %MVC. It decresed with an increase in shoulder flexion angle up to 120° and then it increased. This study does not support the recommendation that weights corresponding to 5% of MVC, much less 20% of MVC as suggested by Rohmert, can be held indefinitely.
European Criteria Document for Evaluation of the Work-Relatedness of Upper Extremity Musculoskeletal Disorders
Authors: Sluiter Judith K. , Rest Kathleen M. , Frings-Dresen Monique H.W.
Published: January 2012

A European consensus criteria document for diagnosing Work-Related Upper Extremity Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRUEMSDs) was developed with the main purpose being prevention. The project was guided by a selection of European experts on the field of upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders and work factors and based on a systematic literature search. The criteria were discussed in a consensus workshop attended by participants of 14 European countries.
Developing and Updating the Provincial Musculoskeletal Disorders Prevention Program
Authors: Courville Julie , Archer Ketty M. , Sauvage Josée
Published: January 2012

In light of the growing number of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), the Commission de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CSST) of Québec has established a number of MSD guidelines. An inspection-prevention program was then developed to implement these guidelines. Throughout the program development process, the CSST relied on the cooperation of various occupational health and safety partners in Québec. An expert, participatory or mixed approach to ergonomics was used, depending on the organizational context, and the tools were adapted to suit each context. To ensure continuous improvement, the CSST has undertaken to update the program and tools. At the same time, the program continues to be assessed, a process which should be completed sometime during the year 2000.
Employer Survey on Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders, Risk Factors and Prevention Steps in Washington State
Authors: Silverstein Barbara , Foley Michael
Published: January 2012

A survey of Washington State employers was conducted in 1998 to ascertain employer perceptions about the presence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders, risk factors, measures taken to address these problems, their benefits and where employers turned for help on these issues. Almost 5,000 employers responded to the survey (75% response rate). About one-third reported experiencing musculoskeletal disorders in the workplace, 56% reported employees exposed to at least one risk factor more than 2 hours per day. Of those who reported taking steps to prevent WMSDs, most were successful in reducing WMSD incidence or severity and experienced collateral benefits.
The Development of a European Union Topic Centre Good Practice at Workplace Level Musculoskeletal Disorders
Authors: Buckle P , David G.
Published: January 2012

The European Agency for Safety and Health at Work has established Topic Centres covering the key areas for the Agency's information provision activities. A Topic Centre has been developed to provide information on Good Practice - Musculoskeletal Disorders via the Internet. Procedures for data collection have been established and a data base structure developed for the storage and management of the information that has been gathered. Sites and source materials have been found that will provide practical guidance for the target population in their work.
Some Observations about Ergonomic Issues Surrounding Musculoskeletal Pain Cases
Authors: Ulin Sheryl S. , Armstrong Thomas J. , Franzblau Alfred , Haig Andrew J. , Keyserling W. Monroe , Levine Simon P. , Werner Robert A.
Published: January 2012

A study was conducted using patients with musculoskeletal disorders, to aid with the development of a model system for providing work place ergonomic accommodations for elderly and disabled workers. An ergonomic assessment module was added to the multi-disciplinary quantified functional assessment of patients with musculoskeletal disorders. Thirty-eight patients (22 female, 16 male) were interviewed by an ergonomist. All of these patients had chronic back pain and other musculoskeletal problems such as leg, head, neck, shoulder or hand pain. The ergonomics module was a 30-minute interview in which information on the current or previous work tasks, equipment, frequency, forceful exertions, and work positions was collected. Observations based on interactions with the medical team providing service demonstrated that data gathered during the ergonomics module resulted in substantially more information about a person's interactions within the work environment than the standard clinical team's assessment.
Musculoskeletal Ill Health in the Cleaning Industry
Authors: Woods V. , Buckle P.
Published: January 2012

There are reports from several countries that cleaners have a high risk of developing health problems, particularly musculoskeletal problems affecting the back, neck, shoulders, elbows and hands. This symposium draws together research that is currently being conducted on ill health amongst cleaners in Europe.
Recommendations for Reducing Musculoskeletal Health Problems among Cleaners
Authors: Woods V , Buckle P
Published: January 2012

A two year research study was undertaken to identify the extent and causes of musculoskeletal work related problems and discomfort among cleaners, to develop guidelines for machine design and to provide advice for supervisors and managers in the cleaning industry. The study highlighted that health problems amongst the UK cleaning population were significantly higher than for comparable working populations. This paper presents the recommendations put forward to try and reduce these health problems which are targeted at all interested parties in the cleaning industry i.e. employers, managers, supervisors, trainers, equipment suppliers and manufacturers. The recommendations focus on machine and equipment design, changes to work organisation and work schedules, formulation of training policies and programmes, development of local health policies and equipment maintenance programmes.
Cardiorespiratory Strain during Floor Mopping with Different Methods
Authors: Louhevaara Veikko , Hopsu Leila , Sjøgaard Karen
Published: January 2012

The cardiorespiratory strain of professional female cleaners was quantified as they used different floor mopping methods with respect to the amount of water ranging from dry to wet. The results of oxygen consumption, heart rate and the rating of perceived exertion indicated that the cardiorespiratory strain of dry mopping methods was systematically lighter than that of the more watery methods.
Muscular Strain during Floor Mopping with Different Cleaning Methods
Authors: Hopsu Leila , Toivonen Risto , Louhevaara Veikko , Sjøgaard Karen
Published: January 2012

Mopping is one of the most used cleaning methods. The aim of this study was to quantify and compare local muscular strain during floor mopping with seven different mopping methods with respect to the amount of water ranging from dry to wet. The results showed that the local strain measured with EMG from the trapezius and forearm muscles was higher with the use of wet and damp mopping methods than with the use of dry methods.
Questions to ask When Interpreting Surface Electromyography (SEMG) Research
Authors: Ankrum Dennis R.
Published: January 2012

Surface electromyography (SEMG) is widely used to evaluate muscle activity. In SEMG, researchers attach electrodes to the surface of the skin overlying a muscle and measure the amount of electricity it produces as muscle fibers contract. SEMG can determine which muscles are active, their degree of activity, and how active the muscle is compared to the subject's capacity. It can also be used to estimate muscle force. Properly employed, SEMG assists in evaluating the relative risk of a work task. As articles reporting SEMG results are often used by ergonomics practitioners as guidance in job design, the ability to interpret SEMG research is critical. Problems occur when researchers assume their readers have a greater familiarity with SEMG than actually exists, or when they make any of a number of SEMG-related research or interpretation errors. This paper suggests some questions that should be asked when evaluating a study that reports SEMG data.
Overview of Electromyography in Ergonomics
Authors: Marras William S.
Published: January 2012

Electromyography (EMG) is a tool that can be very valuable in ergonomic studies if it is used correctly and if the associated limitations are appreciated. An understanding of the use of EMG transcends many areas of knowledge including physiology, instrumentation, recording technology, and signal processing and analysis. This paper provides a general overview of these areas so that an appreciation for how these areas interact and impact on the effective use of EMG.
Low Back Pain as a Predictor of Sickness Absence due to Low Back Disorders
Authors: Häkkänen Marketta , Viikari-Juntura Eira , Martikainen Rami
Published: January 2012

The objective of the study was to investigate two types of self-reported low back pain, sciatic and local, as predictors of sickness absence due to low back disorders. The study population comprised 4265 workers in a large forestry company. The workers filled out a self-administrative questionnaire on musculoskeletal symptoms and potential risk factors. Sickness absence was followed for subsequent 12 months via medical records. Log-linear modeling was used to investigate the associations between the predictors and the number of days lost due to low back disorders. Sciatic and local low back pain were predictors of future sick leaves. Furthermore, their effects on sick leave were different, sciatic pain increasing the risk of sick leave remarkably. Other predictors were self assessed ability to work during the coming five years, job category, average hours per day of transportation work, and average hours per day of working kneeling or squatted. Our results suggest that it is beneficial to differentiate between sciatic and local low back symptoms in health examinations of workers as well as in etiologic studies on low back disorders.
Musculoskeletal Problems in Relation to Farming, Gender and Smoking
Authors: Björkstén M G , Rask-Andersen A.
Published: January 2012

The aim of the present study was to investigate if smoking habits covariated with musculoskeletal problems among a group of male and female farmers and a control group from the general population. A questionnaire was sent to all farms and to a group of controls from the general population in the county of Uppsala. It comprised questions about smoking habits and musculoskeletal problems. Crosstabulations and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. In the analyses we included smoking habits, age, gender and group belonging, e g farmers or controls. Age did not give a higher risk for musculoskeletal problems in any of the groups. The results showed that problems were related both to gender and group combined or not combined with smoking habits.
Potential Health Effects of Non-Keyboard Input Devices (NKID): Results of Manager and User Surveys
Authors: Woods V , Hastings S , Buckle P , Haslam RA
Published: January 2012

This paper reports the findings of two questionnaire surveys, the first distributed to IT and health and safety managers and the second to users of non-keyboard input devices (NKID). This is part of a two year study investigating the potential health effects of non-keyboard input devices.
Validation of the Strain Index in Manufacturing Facilities
Authors: Rucker Nathan P. , Moore J. Steven
Published: January 2012

The Strain Index is a semi-quantitative job analysis methodology developed on the basis of biomechanics, physiology, and epidemiology to predict jobs that place workers at an increased risk of developing a musculoskeletal disorder. Thirty jobs were classified based on the Strain Index score and morbidity. A comparison of the Strain Index score and the morbidity resulted in a sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 88%, positive predictive value of 67%, and negative predictive value of 100%. This suggests that the Strain Index is a valid tool to identify at risk jobs in industrial settings.
Computerized Ergonomic Field Analysis in the Meat-Processing Industry
Authors: Ellegast Rolf , Herda Christian
Published: January 2012

A new portable system consisting of sensors, which are attached to the worker's clothes, was used in an ergonomic field analysis in the meat-processing industry. Preventive recommendations for five different work places were derived from the recorded stress data (e.g. working postures and handled load weights). The method turned out to be a very efficient way for the investigation of characteristic strain profiles of specific working tasks.
Design of Ergonomic Intervention Studies Using Exposure Variability Data — An Example Based on Assembly Work EMG
Authors: Mathiassen Svend Erik , Burdorf Alex , Van der Beek Allard J
Published: January 2012

Statistical power was investigated in intervention studies using upper trapezius EMG, by means of variance partitioning. It was shown that common intervention effects can be detected only with study sizes in excess of what is usually considered feasible.
Participatory Approach to Ergonomic Risk Reduction: Case Study of Body Harnesses for Concrete Work
Authors: Gibbons Wilhette (Billy) , Hecker Steven
Published: January 2012

This project used a participatory process to develop a system for carpenters and laborers to obtain body harness equipment satisfying both safety and ergonomic concerns. Focus groups with workers identified poorly fitting and inappropriate body harnesses as one contributor to discomfort and pain among concrete form workers. An ordering system and selection guide was developed and implemented working with suppliers, the safety department, field crews and foremen. The system was piloted on a large high-rise project. Follow-up interviews and written surveys were conducted with 27 carpenters. The findings showed increases in participation, training, and interaction with foremen and crews regarding body harness fit, options, and safety. The findings further demonstrated perceived improvements in selection, fit, and overall body harness satisfaction. Workers who were present at the beginning of the project experienced better selection and training than those who arrived after the initial ordering efforts. The ordering system was more efficient for this site in the initial set up phase of the project when obtaining equipment for the job is the norm. After construction efforts were underway, less effort was put into participation and ordering system maintenance.
A Comprehensive risk Assessment Model for Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders of the Upper Extremities
Authors: Freivalds Andris , Kong Yongku , You Heecheon , Park Seikwon
Published: January 2012

A quantitative risk assessment model determining the likelihood of incurring work-related musculoskeletal disorders of the upper extremities has been developed based on grip force and hand motion data input from an innovative ‘touch glove’. This glove utilizes a commercial CyberGlove to measure hand and finger movements and UniForce pressure sensors to measure grip pressure during work. These are incorporated directly on-line to a laptop with the risk assessment model leading to a predicted incidence rate. The model explains 50% of the variance due to job stressors, with the remaining variability due to individual and psychosocial factors. These were examined in a pilot case-control retrospective epidemiological study of 97 participants, reducing the unexplained variability to almost less than 10%.
Guidelines for Designing Jobs Organization
Authors: Colombini D. , Occhipinti E. , Grieco A.
Published: January 2012

Preventive measures aimed at minimizing the occurrence of WMSDs of upper limbs can be divided into three categories: structural, organisational and educational. Organisational measures essentially relate to job design (i. e. distribution of tasks, speeds and pauses). They serve to alleviate problems connected with frequency and inadequate recovery periods. The objective of the study was to lower the frequency and to increase the recovery periods taking into due consideration the impact on the production levels (and costs). The authors illustrate in some detail a practical trial conducted in a major engineering firm.
The Re-Employment of Workers with CTD in a Metal-Mechanical Industry
Authors: Atsushi Sasaki Edson , LÓpes Antonio Remi
Published: January 2012

This paper has the aim of showing the procedures to change the work place of workers with musculo-skeletal disorders of the upper limbs in a company from the metal mechanical area. From 18 workers who presented lesions, 12 returned to their work places in compatible activities observing the OCRA risk index criteria (action frequency, posture, force, pause and risk additional factors). To define the new position for the worker with CTD, the work place must correspond to the labor capacity of this worker. They can choose from work places which will obey the medical and ergonomical assessment criteria. The performance of the activities of these workers will be periodically followed according to the Embraco ergonomical process. First of all, a meeting was set up with the workers with CTD and with the other workers in the department where they will develop their activities, everybody has to be aware of the process of changing work places. Supervisors and ergonomics team also take part in the meeting. In this meeting they receive information about the employee's labor condition so that everybody helps with operational difficulties and stimulating a quick reintegration. 15 days after the activities have been started, the worker is interviewed about the new work place and he (she) does an auto-assessment about the new activities which he (she) is doing, using a perceptive subjective scale with points from 1 to 10. The second assessment is done after six months. During this period the worker is followed fortnightly visiting his/her work place and he is invited to go to the health and working environment department, when it is necessary. The first results were positive. We got a significant improvement in the pathological situation of the workers with CTD, allowing the gradual return to their normal activities.
A Model System for Overcoming Physical Work Barriers
Authors: Armstrong Thomas J. , Ahuja Vinay , Franzblau Alfred , Haig Andrew J. , Keyserling W. Monroe , Levine Simon P. , Ulin Sheryl S. , Werner Robert A.
Published: January 2012

A model system is proposed to help understand the relationship between personal and work factors that affect participation in work. The proposed model includes a hierarchical open-ended format for considering worker and job properties with special emphasis on musculoskeletal disorders. The first level of the analysis is based on information that can be obtained from interviewing patients, workers, supervisors and health care providers, and provides broad categories of information that can be used to anticipate barriers to working and to plan further studies to evaluate and overcome barriers. The sequence and depth of subsequent analysis depends on the circumstances, e.g., finding a new job, returning to work following an injury, or a new job design. If the worker is undergoing medical treatment, the treating health care provider usually has final authority for the return to work decisions, although the decisions can be greatly influenced by job information provided. Two cases are presented to illustrate development and application of the model.
Use of the Ocra Index in Assessment of Repetitive Activities of Upper Limbs and Experiences in Re-Designing Work Places
Authors: Atsushi Sasaki Edson , LÓpes Antonio Remi
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this paper is to show the results and conclusions of the use of the OCRA methodology which was developed by Drs. Daniela Colombini and Enrico Occhipinti and applied at Empresa Brasileira de Compressores S.A. in two stator sections (Minis and Midis factories). Those sections presented high numbers of CTD operators with symptoms of upper limb disorders. After confirming that all work places presented high levels risk of injury, the re-designing of some work places was started in the company, as well as the re-training of employees; comforming to ergonomic modules in the CCQ (Quality Control Circle) course. In 1999 an experiment introduced stretching, pauses and changes in work places during the work shift. This allowed for alternative postures as well as reduction of force and frequency of such movements. As a result, a significant decrease in occupational disorders and better life quality of the employees was achieved.