bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Anatomical Representations of the Trunk Muscles in EMG-Assisted Spinal Load Models
Authors: Marras W S , Davis K G , Jorgensen M J
Published: January 2012

This study evaluated the differences in biomechanical model performance and predicted spinal loading on L5/S1 for controlled sagittally symmetric lifting exertions, utilizing three different EMG-assisted biomechanical models comprising different torso anatomical inputs. The first model was based on muscle lines-of-action and prediction of cross-sectional areas from an historical biomechanical model. The second model was based upon observations from an MRI study on torso geometry. The third model consisted of a hybrid approach, where geometric inputs from MRI observations were supplemented with lines-of-action observed from cadaver studies, where necessary. To evaluate the models, spinal loading and model performance was evaluated for thirty-five males performing sagittally symmetric lifting tasks starting from 55 deg trunk flexion to upright neutral. All three models resulted in comparable and acceptable model performance. However, differences were observed in predicted spinal loading. The hybrid model resulted in smaller compression force and sagittal plane shear force when compared to the MRI-only model, and smaller sagittal plane shear forces when compared to the historical biomechanical model. These results indicate that the geometric representation of the torso anatomy needs to be considered when evaluating spinal loading predicted from different biomechanical models for comparison to tolerance estimates in attempts to evaluate risk of injury.
A Review of Biomechanical Studies on Stoop and Squat Lifting
Authors: Van Dieën Jaap H. , Van Hoozemans Marco J.M. , Van Toussaint Huub M.
Published: January 2012

To assess the rationale of advocating the squat as opposed to the stoop technique, biomechanical studies comparing the two were reviewed. With the exception of some specific lifting tasks, net moments and compression forces were estimated to be equal or higher in squat lifting. Shear force and spinal bending moments appeared lower in squat lifting. Net moments and compression forces probably can cause injury, whereas the other load components remain below injury threshold. In conclusion, the literature does not provide support for advocating squat lifting.
Minimization of Pressure and Shear Load in Sitting and Lying, Based on Biomechanical Modeling
Authors: Snijders C.J. , Goossens R.H.M. , Van Dijke G.A. Hoek
Published: January 2012

Human body-product interaction is, next to clothes, most intensive and prolonged in beds and seats. In ergonomics this is a classical antropometric issue which emphasizes on standards for sizes which accommodate different body measures. However, biomechanics of lying and seating got less attention. As an introduction to the papers in this symposium three basic biomechanical models will be described. The first model describes how pressure and shear on the ischial tuberosities is related to the position of seat and backrest. The choice of foam, fluid or gas for body support is another basic issue for minimization of pressure and shear. The next biomechanical topic is load on internal body structures in (quasi-)static postures. This issue is of great interest because of related neck, low back and other complaints. The model on transfer of lumbosacral load to iliac bones and legs explains that in sitting, even with the use of backrest and armrests, muscles in the abdominal wall must be continuous active to form a deep muscle corset for stability of joints in the lumbopelvic region. One conclusion is, that leg crossing is functional and should be implemented in ergonomics.

With the help of biomechanics and related verification measurements a list of design criteria is formulated. Often body support contravenes with basic biomechanical design criteria. Examples are office chairs, cockpit chairs and wheel chairs but also (hospital) beds.
Dynamic Usability Principles in Rehabilitation, Work and Communication
Authors: Venda Valery F. , Venda Nadia I. , Trybus Raymond J. , Fisher Michael B.
Published: January 2012

Existing static methods of usability are not effective in application to the dynamic processes like rehabilitation, work safety, implementation of new work and communication technologies including e-business. Joint and independent work of eyes and arms in manual assembly was experimentally studied as a factor of usability and occupational safety. Principles of a dynamic usability are suggested. Application of the principles is demonstrated with invention and usability testing of assembly workstations with indirect observation of operations and negative tilt of work surface.
The Need to Conduct Ergonomic Analyses of Working Conditions in Poland's Industrial Plants
Authors: Grzybowski Wieslaw , Gorny Adam
Published: January 2012

The paper discusses selected arguments for conducting working condition surveys in Poland's industrial plants.
Ergonomic Restrictions Due to Inadequate Facilities for Nursing
Authors: Tamminen-Peter Leena
Published: January 2012

A survey was carried out to evaluate the restrictions placed on ergonomic patient handling by inadequate facilities and technical equipment in Finnish health centre wards. Lack of space in patient rooms and toilets constituted the biggest problem observed. Inadequate equipment was common. In most wards there were 1/2 to 1/3 of the beds adjustable in height. Half of the wards had assistive devices sufficiently, but they were not used on a regular bases.
Productivity Improvement for Optimum Utilization of a Worker's Capabilities in Repetitive Lifting Tasks
Authors: Mahajan J. M.
Published: January 2012

In spite of a high degree of mechanization and automation found in industries, it has been observed that repetitive manual lifting jobs involving the handling of loads varying from a few hundred grams to as much as about fifty kilograms continue to be undertaken manually by industrial workers. One of the major and most inescapable of all tasks on an industrial shop floor is frequent manual material handling. A large number of industrial workers suffer from various types of cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs) due to ill designed manual lifting jobs and processes. A physically stressful and sustained manual lifting job needs to be viewed ergonomically in the light of workers' capabilities and after-effects of such jobs on the workers in the long run. In this paper, an attempt has been made to identify important factors that have a bearing on the capabilities of an industrial worker involved in such repetitive manual lifting jobs. This paper focuses on the ergonomics aspects of the manual lifting with particular reference to physical capabilities and limitations of a worker. Critical factors such as age, weight, height, oxygen up take, heart rate (HR), pulse rate (PR), electromyographic measurements (EMG), loads (weight of the material), distance of the load from the operator, posture, frequency of lifts, etc. have been considered. Aspects such as operational process sequence or the exact nature of the load to be lifted is situation specific in an industry. Some of the industries that may benefit from this work are tire manufacturing, railroad, automobile, chemical, ceramic, brick and pottery, glass, cement, steel and iron, building and construction, and defense related industries. An integrative ergonomic approach for evaluating a worker's capabilities for the job requirements has been developed. It is important to consider all approaches such as physiological, biomechanical, psychophysical, psychological and biochemical to optimize the worker's capabilities in such types of physically demanding jobs. In order to optimally utilize a worker's physical capabilities in such tasks an integrative systematic approach is recommended so that a worker's physical capabilities are correctly matched and production is optimized benefiting both the worker and the organization.
The Measures of Occupatioanl Health Care to Affect Health Promotion in Construction
Authors: Kaukiainen Anneli
Published: January 2012

The strain of work conditions in construction industry is focused on musculoskeletal system. The objective of the Occupational Health Care Act is to prevent occupational health risks by improving work conditions and removing healthy hazards from the work and work environment. The occupational health services deal with a process that begins with a need for assessment and continues with the planning and implementation of activities (prevention, improvement, service and promotion) for improvement and then calls for the verification and evaluation of the results.
A Modular Intranet-Based Ergonomics Training Programme for Levi Strauss Europe, Middle East and Africa
Authors: Nicholson A.S. , Hopper J. , McNeice B. , Neyts P.
Published: January 2012

A comprehensive ergonomics training programme has been developed as part of a wider ergonomics strategy for Levi Strauss Europe Middle East and Africa. The background to the programme and an overview of the course is reviewed in this paper
An Ergonomic Analysis of Waste Container Handling: Part II
Authors: Tittiranonda Pat , Das Rajiv , Martin Bernard , Zalk David , Barsnick Lance , Burastero Stephen
Published: January 2012

This study examined the effects of waste container handling on surface electromyographic activity of the erector spinae, infraspinatus and upper trapezius muscles, trunk kinematics (position, velocity and acceleration) measured in three planes (lateral, sagittal and transverse), spinal loading at the L5/S1 region and low back disorder (LBD) risk. Eleven field technicians at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) were asked to manipulate 30 and 55 gallon waste drums and carry a 5 gallon carboys in their workplace. Results showed that there was a statistically significant difference in muscle load on the erector spinae during drum handling activities. Loading and unloading the 55-gallon drums required more force from all muscle groups than the 35-gallon drums. Muscle peak load did not show a significant difference between 35 and 55 gallon drum rolling. For carboy transport, peak muscle activity is greater for all muscle groups with the two carboy carry. The calculated LBD risk also recognized the same activities as being most “at risk.” This data was used by the participatory team to focus their interventions and determine handling limits.
Electromyographic Investigation of the Seated One-Handed Manual Materials Handling Activities
Authors: Kothiyal K. , Kayis B.
Published: January 2012

This study was designed to investigate the relationship between workplace layout and muscular strain in one-handed manual materials handling activities repetitively performed at high rates in the horizontal plane. Ten subjects participated in the study. The task consisted of moving a 1 kg weight over a distance of 38 cm from three different directions set at 45°, 90° and 150° from the body plane. Subjects worked at work rates of 10 movements/Min and 20 movements /Min. Electromyographic (EMG) activities were recorded from five muscles of the dominant hand-arm-shoulder region.*** Root mean squared values of the EMG signals were computed. Static and dynamic components of the EMG signals were also calculated. Results of the study show that muscular strain as measured by EMG activity was in general sensitive to the variation of work rate. The total muscular load imposed by the task showed dependence on movement direction.
Glove Comfort vs. Discomfort: Are They Part of a Continuum or Not? A Mulit-Dimensional Scaling Analysis
Authors: Cherry Jennifer , Christensen Adam , Bishu Ram
Published: January 2012

Whether comfort and discomfort are part of the same continuum or separate continua has been disputed for a long time. The purpose of this study was to examine the factors that mediate comfort and discomfort. Fifty-eight University of Nebraska - Lincoln students (40 females, 18 males) volunteered to participate in the study. Participants took part in anthropometric measurements, sorting tasks, and attribute ratings in either the Comfort or Discomfort condition. Anthropometric measures revealed males and females were relatively equivalent and therefore were not separated in further analyses. MDS supported the use of a four-dimensional solution to depict the similarities and differences among the sixteen gloves for both comfort and discomfort conditions. Further analyses of the regression weights revealed that for some dimensions participants used different criteria for comfort and discomfort judgments. While dimensional analyses and stimuli positions indicated comfort and discomfort are part of the same continuum, attribute analyses provided conflicting evidence that “same continuum” descriptions of comfort and discomfort are too simplistic.
Ergonomic Change Processes in the Production of an Industrial Company
Authors: Odenrick Per , Arvidsson Inger
Published: January 2012

A change process in a Swedish industrial company has been followed during five years. In order to decrease the negative effects of the repetitive manual work, the objective of the change was to achieve more variation in the work activities. A detailed investigation of the work activities and of the musculoskeletal load during work activities was performed. The results were presented for the operators and discussed together in the team. The operators presented many suggestions for improvements. It was decided that a team of three operators should work with a project aimed at designing a new workplace in which one operator could perform all assembly work. Observations, questionnaires and interviews evaluated the change process.
Decreasing Workload by Increasing Workers – The Effect on Discomfort, Heart Rate and Muscle Activity
Authors: McRobbie Helen , Wells Richard
Published: January 2012

As a temporary measure to reduce the risk of injury at the Chipping Line in a foundry, the number of workers was increased from three to four per shift. To examine the effects of the intervention, electromyography (EMG), heart rate, and questionnaire measures were taken eight months before the intervention and four months after the intervention. Questionnaire measures were repeated approximately every two months throughout the year. Decreases in discomfort were found in most body parts in the intervention group, but not in the comparison groups (p<0.10 for the left shoulder and wrist between groups). There was a decrease in absolute heart rate in the intervention group (p<0.05). Changes in forearm muscle activity were not apparent.
A Simple Method to Quantify 3-D Working Postures for Biomechanical Analysis
Authors: Peter Vi , Marks Nadine , Broadhurst Chris
Published: January 2012

A new method to quantify working posture is proposed in this study. The new method is a modified Liu et al (1997) procedure. However, instead of matching the working posture with a photograph next to the manikin, the new method allows the investigator to superimpose a manikin stick figure over top of the photograph of the worker. To test the accuracy of this new proposed method, a controlled experiment was conducted. The results of this study indicate that the new method is a valid approach to quantify working postures. An overall average of 6.7 degrees posture specification errors were found. The smallest posture errors and posture specification time occurred at the camera perspective between 0 and 90 degrees and when the task action was a symmetric posture.
Direct Measurement of Exposures to the Upper Extremity during Automobile Manufacturing
Authors: Buchholz Bryan , Punnett Laura , Park Jung-Soon
Published: January 2012

This paper explores the measurement of wrist posture and motion on workers in two jobs at a plant that stamps sheet metal parts to be used in automobile assembly. It was hypothesized that the welding assemblers would have more wrist motion than the large press operators, who performed primarily manual material handling activities. Wrist posture was ascertained using a biaxial flexible wire electrogoniometer. Numerical differentiation was performed to calculate angular velocity and acceleration from the posture data. No significant differences were found for the wrist posture or motion data between the jobs.
Comparison of Force Output and Muscle EMG during Use When Using a Sit/Stand Stool versus Standing
Authors: Smith Samantha , McMullin Dianne L.
Published: January 2012

Sit/stand stools are often recommended for workers that exhibit lower leg strain or report pain in the legs and feet. This study was conducted to determine if workers are able to produce the same level of hand and arm force while using a sit/stand stool as while standing. Sixteen right-handed, male college students participated in this study. The forearm flexor and extensor muscle activity was monitored using surface electromyography (EMG) during static maximal exertions as well as the force output via a screwdriver attached to a load cell. Force output and the ratio of the EMG activity to force ratio was calculated for the dependent variables. The independent variables were orientation of the screwdriver (horizontal plane vs. vertical plane), body position (leaning against a sit/stand stool vs. standing), muscle (forearm flexors vs. forearm extensors) and trial (three exertions of each combination of body position and screwdriver position); the subject variable was used as the error term in the ANOVA calculations and all combinations were sequenced in a Latin Square design. The results indicated that only the screwdriver position had a significant effect upon the generated maximal force. For the EMG to force ratio where muscle was used as an independent variable, only the interaction between the muscle group and screwdriver position was significant. The use of the sit/stand stool had no significant effect on either maximal force output or on the EMG/force ratio indicating that the use of a sit/stand stool to alleviate leg stress does not effect the work output of the upper limb for tasks similar to the ones described in this study.
Reduction in Laceration Injuries in Meat Workers Through Introduction of Cut Resistant Cotton Gloves
Authors: Caple David C
Published: January 2012

Laceration injuries to fingers, hands and arms represent 30% of all workers compensation injuries in the Australian Meat Industry (South Australian WorkCover 1999). These injuries result from razor sharp knives, used in the slaughtering, boning and packing of beef, sheep, poultry, pigs and kangaroos. Whilst meat workers have been provided with woven wire mesh gloves to wear on their non knife hand, it is evident that many workers choose not to wear this form of hand protection thus increasing their risk of laceration injuries. It is also evident that the knife hand is totally unprotected in the event that the hand slips off the handle across the razor sharp blade of the knife.

This project involved a 6 month evaluation of wearing cut resistant cotton gloves in the slaughtering and boning processes of the read meat industry in South Australia. These field trials indicated a range of benefits from the wearing of these gloves as well as identifying a number of design issues to be addressed by the manufacturers before full adoption of these gloves could be possible by meat workers in this industry.
Owas Revised: Biomechanical Calculations and time Aspects of Loading
Authors: Takala Esa-Pekka , Freund Jouni
Published: January 2012

A 3-D biomechanical human model using OWAS codes of working postures as input was developed. The output gives biomechanical load on the shoulder and low back as a function of time. This new approach enables the simple postural observations to be analyzed in a biomechanical way with concerning the different body parts simultaneously in sequential time.
Computer Workplaces for Primary School Children - What about Ergonomics?
Authors: Berns T , Klusell L
Published: January 2012

Computer related RSI before 20 years of age? This rather provocative question put focus on the increasing number of children and young people requiring treatment for muscular problems, particularly from the shoulder and arm region, problems that are related to the use of computer mouse and keyboard.

The usage of computers has increased during the last years and particularly in the ages from 7 to 10. Young children are using computer in schools, in spare time activities outside schools and in the homes. The number of hours that children are using computers will most probably increase even further as many schools are prioritising investments in this area.

The objectives with this study were to create a survey of computer work place design in the school environment and to evaluate this from an ergonomic and physical point of view, regarding the situation for both pupils and teachers.

The study has pointed out that there is a limited ergonomic knowledge among teachers and other responsible people working in schools. This lack of awareness among the majority of teachers is affecting two different problems; firstly the physical strain children are exposed to when using computers due to bad workplace design and secondly it gives the children a lack of awareness of the importance of ergonomic aspects in workplace design. The saying “We do not train for school, we train for life” is very true, particularly in this case.

To support teachers and other people in the schools, responsible for the use of and training with computers, a hand book, based on the outcome of the study, has been produced. The handbook contains headlines as Computer ergonomics in the school environment; To the teacher; To the student; Checklist and finally a short chapter: To you that only have the time to read two pages. The handbook should be distributed free of charge to all Swedish schools.
Stadiometer Measurements of Driver'S Spinal Response to Steering Force and Vibration
Authors: Haslegrave Christine M. , Mellor Myles A.
Published: January 2012

The effects on spinal loading of two aspects of the driving task - force exertion while steering and exposure to 4 Hz 1ms−2 peak vertical seat vibration - were investigated with a group of six male subjects seated in a driving simulator. In addition, the effect of the combination of the two aspects was tested. Spinal shrinkage was measured with a precision seated stadiometer over a 40 minute period. Analysis of variance showed that both steering actions and vibration had a significant effect on spinal loading (p<0.05 and p<0.025 respectively), even though the steering torque (5Nm) was moderate. The response was significantly greater in all three experimental conditions than in static sitting (in the same posture). There appeared to be a tendency for the mean spinal shrinkage to increase from 6.0 mm when steering to 7.1mm under vibration and 8.7mm when steering and vibration were combined, but the only difference which was statistical significant was that between the combined condition and steering alone (t test, p<0.01).
A Comparison of “Case Definitions” to Estimate Prevalence of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Hospital Laundry Workers and the Influence of Psychosocial Variables
Authors: Village Judy
Published: January 2012

As part of an intervention study in 3 hospital laundries, 157 workers (83.5% response) completed questionnaires about musculoskeletal symptoms and psychosocial factors. Symptom prevalence was compared using 3 “case definitions“. Prevalence rates varied depending upon the “case definition” with 73% reporting “any” pain, 71% reporting pain ≥3 time in the year or ≥5 days duration (Hunting), 57% reporting pain in the last 7 days (Nordic-week) and 54% reporting pain ≥12 times or ≥7 days in the last year and ≥mod***erate intensity (NIOSH). When compared with psychosocial scores, there were significant differences for all body parts using the Nordic-week and NIOSH definition. For the upper limbs, only the Nordic-week was significant and for the back, the Hunting and NIOSH were significant with psychosocial scores. Analyzed individually, variety in work tasks and mental exhaustion after work were significantly different between “cases” and “non-cases”. The “case definition” used determines not only prevalence of MSD, but significance of psychosocial variables as well.
Relationship of Psychophysical Ratings of Ergonomic Exposures with In-Plant Medical Visit Rates for Musculoskeletal Disorders in Automibile Manufacturing
Authors: Park Jung-Soon , Punnett Laura
Published: January 2012

This study was conducted to examine the relationship of ergonomic exposure to medical visits for musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) at the job level. Ergonomic exposure index score was constructed at the job level based on individual workers' psychophysical ratings of multiple ergonomic exposures (1992) and medical visit rates (1989–1993) were calculated. A positive association was found between the two. As well as physical ergonomic exposure, level of psychosocial job control seemed to play an important role, possibly due to its determination of workers' accessibility to the medical department.
Production Strategies and Cumulative Trauma Disorders
Authors: Camarotto João Alberto , Menegon Nilton Luiz , Vanalle Rosangela Maria
Published: January 2012

This poster reports on an exploratory survey carried out in an industrial company with the purpose of establishing the relations between different forms of work reorganisation, based on strategies to improve productivity and competitiveness, and the evolution of incidences of Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTDs) in the reorganised sectors of the company. The ultimate objective of the survey was to increase our understanding of the reasons for the appearance and incidence of these disorders and, thus, contribute to the study of preventive models.
Manual Handling in Nursing Jobs: An Ergonomic Study of a Patient Transferring Aid
Authors: Kothiyal K. , Yuen T. W.
Published: January 2012

This study presents the results of an ergonomics evaluation of a patient handling aid commonly used for transferring patients. The results of the study showed that use of the patient handling aid (Medesign) increased the rate of perceived exertion at the lower back and the shoulder but did not indicate any significant difference in the muscular activity in the regions. It is suggested that users' anthropometry should be considered in designing a patient handling aid.
Ergonomics and economics, dilemma's and chances
Authors: Koningsveld Eur Ernst A.P. Erg , Thé Kiem A.
Published: January 2012

Ergonomists aim to prevent occupational injuries and to improve workers' well being and their performance. Many ergonomists feel the need to prove the benefits of their work. Next to evaluation with questionnaires, economical benefits of their work should be most welcome to demonstrate their positive contribution. However, mathematical models are scarce, and calculations are not as simple as they should like.

In the Netherlands two studies were carried out to estimate the macro costs of (poor) working conditions. Macro costs are considered to be the total of all costs for employers, employees and costs to society. The latter ones are the costs for social insurances and the government. The first study focused at all workers nationwide, the second one at the building and construction industry only. These studies taught us a lot about the feasibilities and impossibilities to make calculations.
Developing Reliable Ergonomic Exposure Assessment Strategies for Construction Work
Authors: Paquet Victor , Punnett Laura , Woskie Susan , Buchholz Bryan
Published: January 2012

The objective of this research was to provide guidelines for the reliable assessment of ergonomic exposures in construction work. Using a modified work-sampling approach, two or three observers collected a total of 4852 observations on tasks performed by three trades (iron workers, carpenters and laborers) for periods of several weeks. At each observation, recorded exposure variables included non-neutral trunk posture, trunk flexion, lateral bending or torsion, arm(s) at or above shoulder height, kneeling, squatting or leg bending, load handling, manual materials handling, hand-tool use and power-tool use. The frequency of exposure was calculated for each worker during each of the tasks on each of the days. ANOVA was used to assess the importance of task, between-worker variability and within-worker variability on exposures across days. A statistical resampling method (bootstrap) was then used to evaluate the reliability of exposure estimates for groups of workers performing the same task for different sampling periods. Most ergonomic exposures were found to vary significantly among construction tasks. In most cases, the between-worker component of variance within task was overshadowed by a large within-worker component of variance*** thought to consist largely of day-to-day differences in exposure and measurement error. When the average frequency of the ergonomic exposures was bootstrapped, the reliability of the most variable exposures tended to improve as the assessment periods approached 5 to 6 days, with marginal improvements for assessment periods longer than 6 days. Reliable estimates for the least variable exposures were obtained with 1or 2 days of observation. Based on this study, a task-based approach for classifying ergonomic exposures may benefit epidemiologic research and the evaluation of controls in construction work. A preliminary analysis of exposure variability is recommended when determining sampling strategies, and when multiple exposures are assessed simultaneously, sampling periods exceeding 6 days may be required for reliable measures.
An Ergonomics Training Intervention with Construction Workers: Effects on Behavior and Perceptions
Authors: Hecker Steven , Gibbons Wilhette (Billy) , Rosecrance John , Barsotti Anthony
Published: January 2012

A two-hour ergonomics and body conditioning training module was presented to construction workers on a large building site as part of a program to prevent musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Topics covered included spine physiology and common work-related MSDs, potential benefits of prework stretching and body conditioning, body mechanics, ergonomic risk factors in construction, modifications that could reduce ergonomic risk factors, and overcoming obstacles to implementing such changes. Participatory methods and video from the site was used in the training. As an adjunct to the training an ergonomist worked with foremen and crews on the site to identify specific ergonomic risks and develop control measures. Training effects were assessed using questionnaires administered immediately following training and at a subsequent point in the project, and observation of ergonomic modifications by an ergonomist… 407 construction workers completed the questionnaire immediately after training (82% response) and 183 (71%) completed a follow-up instrument five months after training commenced. Respondents reported high incidence of ergonomic risk factors (87%) and musculoskeletal symptoms (78%) related to work. Workers applied more of the stretching and lifting practices information than the ergonomic information, but almost two-thirds of the trained workers named specific ergonomic changes they had made. Several crew-initiated task interventions emerged following the training. The paper discusses implications for construction worker training and ergonomic changes at multiple levels of the construction industry.
Re-Designing Concrete Cellular Blocks to Reduce the Risk of Low-Back Injury
Authors: Vi Peter , Marks Nadine , McCusker Michael
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of weight and grip design of concrete cellular blocks on the risk of injury to the lower back. To evaluate the proposed new design, five male participants were asked to perform simulated block laying tasks using the old-design (no grip) and the new-design (with grip). In this study, peak trunk moment, cumulative moment across experimental trial, trunk flexion angle and time required to perform the task were used as dependent variables. Results from the experiment demonstrated that weight of the block and grip/handle designs are both statistically significant (p<0.05) main factors affecting peak and cumulative moment, as well as trunk flexion angle. The time required to perform the task was not found to be a significant variable. Based on these findings, it is concluded that the proposed new design with either the grip located at the top of the concrete block or lowering the weight of the block is safer and easier to handle than the old design consisting of no grip and heavier weight.
The Ocra Index for Risk Assessment of Wmsds Risk with Repetitive Movements of the Upper Limbs: Further Validation Data
Authors: Occhipinti E. , Colombini D.
Published: January 2012

This paper proposes a method for calculating a concise index of exposure to repetitive movements of the upper limbs.

The proposal, which is now validated by more studies and applications, is conceptually based on the procedure recommended by the NIOSH for calculating the lifting Index.

The OCRA Index in this case is based on the relationship between the daily number of actions performed by the upper limbs in repetitive tasks and the corresponding number of recommended actions, calculated as a function of the presence of risk factors. The new epidemiological studies carried out, quantifying the prevalence of WMSDs and exposure index OCRA in different tasks, confirm a significant association between OCRA and the prevalence of upper limb disorders.
A New Check List Model, Set with the Ocra Index, to Evaluate Exposure to Repetitive Movements of the Upper Limbs
Authors: Colombini D. , Occhipinti E. , Baracco A.
Published: January 2012

When it is necessary to start the first evaluation of the presence of upper limb risk factors in a company, it is useful to adopt a simple method to value quickly their levels.

For this purpose, our research team proposes a new model of check list (set with OCRA Index) to evaluate the exposure to repetitive movements of the upper limbs.

This check list includes the evaluation of all the risk factors (frequency, force, posture, recovery periods and other additional risk factors): for each risk level, a fixed score is predeterminated.

At the end of the task observation, it is possible to obtain a risk index, summing the partial scores of each risk.
Quantitative Assessment of Upper Extremity Capacity and Exposure
Authors: Dempsey Patrick G. , Ciriello Vincent M. , Clancy Edward A. , McGorry Raymond , Pransky Glenn S. , Webster Barbara S.
Published: January 2012

The classical ergonomics approach to workplace assessment includes consideration of the relevant task demands and characteristics of human capacity. In the case of the upper extremity, the primary exposure parameters measured often include force, posture, repetition, duration and environmental variables (i.e., vibration and temperature). Assessment is often best accomplished through direct measurement. The use of position, force and torque transducers, and electromyography electrodes provide the foundation for a direct measurement strategy that has been used to quantify these demands. The development and refinement of apparatus and approaches in our Research Center will be discussed, including specific laboratory and field applications. Similarly, methods for quantifying the typical capacity of the upper extremity, variations in capacity, and methods of relating capacity to performance requirements will be discussed.
Musculoskeletal Disorders in Cleaning Personnel – Interventions for Prevention and Rehabilitation
Authors: Luessenhop Stefan , Krueger Detlef , Huth Elke
Published: January 2012

Presently and traditionally medical rehabilitation is mostly medically oriented, i.e. treating the client for his/her physical deficits based on a medical diagnosis. The current occupation of the rehab candidate is considered to be important when a social-medical appraisal is prepared to the candidate's future ability to work. Occupation related advice and treatment is missing most of the time. The goal of the presented concept is to improve both the immediate and long-range outcome of rehabilitation by teaching the principles of working techniques and the effects of work equipment and materials.
Upper Limb Risk Assessment According to ISO/CEN Standards
Authors: Delleman Nico J.
Published: January 2012

This paper describes the current status, general content, and application of the standards EN 1005, ISO 11226, and ISO 11228–3 concerning upper limb risk assessment.

Various CEN/ISO standards provide essential elements for a risk assessment procedure concerning upper limb repetitive movements. Application in the field led to a promising result for health and safety professionals, ergonomists, etc.
A Longitudinal Study of Workers with Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disease after Relocation to Redesigned work Stations
Authors: Colombini D. , Occhipinti E. , Battevi N. , Menoni O. , Ricci M.G. , Pancera D. , Augenti M. , Girola C.
Published: January 2012

This paper presents a longitudinal study on the return to the workforce of employers with WMSDs of the upper limbs and their reallocation to jobs with “low exposure”. The study started 5 years ago with 100 workers affected by WMSDs and includes now 180 affected workers operating in the same factory. The trial involved: definition of criteria for characterising jobs for affected workers; classifying WMSDs workers according to the type and severity of the disorders. The results, 5 years after the start of the trial, are encouraging and show that when the affected workers return in jobs that full meet the defined criteria, a significant prevalence of improvements are reported.
The Mechanical Loads on the Low Back during Different Patient Handling Tasks
Authors: Schibye B. , Skotte J. , Hye-Knudsen C.T. , Hansen A. Faber , Essendrop M.
Published: January 2012

High prevalence rate of low back disorders (LBD) is found among nursing personnel. To get a more detailed knowledge concerning the risk factor in the health care sector, the working postures and the mechanical load of the low back were measured during nine commonly used patient handling tasks. Further the variation in the load between the different tasks was compared with the variation between subjects when they perform the same tasks. The study includes 10 female nurses with no special education or course in patient handling technique and a male stroke patient. The load during the different tasks were quantified from the net moment at L4/L5 joint calculated by use of a 3D biomechanical dynamic multi-segment model, the measured muscle activity (EMG) in erector spinae muscles and the kinematics of the low back. Significant differences in the mean values for all the dependent variable both between tasks and between subjects were found. The highest moment was found during the two tasks typically involving a lifting procedure of the whole bodyweight of the patient. High moment was however also found during tasks where the patient is “only” being repositioned in the bed. The position data measured for the low back are more difficult to interpret since no recommendations for limits are available in the literature. A high intersubject variation is found for all the outcome variables for a given task. This emphasizes the importance of an exposure assessment including individual measures. Otherwise, the risk for misclassification may be high and a detailed task description less effective for recommending prevention strategy.
Capturing Image Capture Behavior: An Analysis of Consumer use of Video and Still Camera Combinations
Authors: Watts-Perotti Jennifer , Muszak Jerry
Published: January 2012

Many consumers use both still and video cameras to capture memorable events. The purpose of this research is to determine why consumers choose to use both kinds of cameras to capture these events. To explore this issue, we conducted an ethnographic study combining semi-structured interviews with questionnaires and observations of events that consumers captured with still and video cameras.
A Suitable Prescriptive Exercise Equipment for Aged Person in Taiwan
Authors: Kang Yen-Yu , Lin Rungtai
Published: January 2012

The overall aim of this project focused on the suitable prescriptive exercise equipment for aged person of the future. With the changing of the trends, it stems from the fact that with the changing of the trends, the development or suitable prescriptive exercise equipment design for aged person should also strive to accommodate to such a change. The assertion in this project has been concentrated mostly on the likely increase of the aged person in the future. In relation to that, the suitable prescriptive exercise equipment, serving as a facility and a social tool used for common purpose, is the consideration for the establishment of a design model to suit factors in cultural phenomena, social trends and ergonomic issues. In consideration of ergonomic issues, first, to define “what is prescriptive exercise equipment” for aged person. Second, to identify the needs for aged person using the prescriptive exercise equipment is not only in physical abilities but also the consideration of internal psychological demands. Influences by the use of lifestyle tools were also considered, and therefore in the structure of this document, the issues within the whole structure will be dealt with by turns. After the structure has established, a design approach and study will be apply in this project.
A Systematic Accident Scenario Analysis of Child Nursery Equipment: Stroller Case Study
Authors: Lee Dong Hoon , Byun Seong Nam
Published: January 2012

Despite the improvements in child safety products with better government regulations, children continue to be victims of defective or improperly used child nursery equipment. According to the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), an estimated 80,000 children under age five are treated every year in U.S. hospital emergency rooms for injuries related to child nursery equipment. Among child nursery equipment, stroller-related accidents caused the most serious injuries to children along with baby walkers and child safety seats. As such, an in-depth accident investigation was needed to find ways to reduce the number of injuries and provide more stringent safety specifications in the design of the stroller. The objective of this study is to identify the accident mechanisms and patterns of stroller-related injuries for designing safer products. In this study, we proposed a Systematic Accident Scenario Analysis (SASA) method, which provides a formal and systematic scheme to devise accident scenarios while maintaining objectivity.
Is British Police Uniform Adequate for the Task?
Authors: Hooper Robin H
Published: January 2012

Each of 43 Police Forces in Britain test and supply their own uniform ensembles. Whilst sharing similarities, the ensembles differ. A national Uniform Project Group was established to evaluate current uniform so as to develop future provision of a uniform ‘menu’. An ergonomics contribution is presented.

A range of data sources were tapped, the main one being uniformed patrol officers (UPOs) discussion groups. Seven Forces and 55 UPOs contributed.

UPOs undertake a wide range of tasks in many different circumstances. Uniform must provide protection, resist injury, accommodate body armour, offer unfettered access to safety equipment (communications, self-defence) and adapt to the elements. It must provide carriage facilities for up to 21 items. Review of these is needed. Other issues included: recognisability, smartness, public perceptions and ease of care (issues raised by 51, 34, 44 & 27 participants respectively).

Design specifications resulted: a layered system giving freedom of movement, minimised ‘grab’ points, allowance for body armour and utility belt providing unfettered equipment access and further carriage facilities. Quality/cost issues were addressed. Novel uniform ensembles were designed and are being evaluated.

In addition to presenting summarised data and identifying tasks, responsibilities and activities of UPOs, the paper identifies consequent system and job design issues.
Resonance Imaging in Hospital Work System Layout
Authors: Held Jürgen , Krueger Helmut
Published: January 2012

Context is the layout of a new multidiscipline facility with approx. 25 operating rooms (OR's). Focus lies on the question whether to work with rooms for preparation/induction of the patient or to do these procedures in the OR. Method is the analysis of work procedures and expert-user interviews in the university hospitals in Switzerland (Zurich, Bern, Lausanne), Belgium (Leuven) and USA (MAYO-Medical Center/Rochester). Task analysis is done with the FIT-System. The interviews are carried out with the VALAMO (variable layout model). The user's statements are structured in a database called MEDINO (management, ergonomics and design information for organisations). In contrast to the Swiss hospitals (-8 OR's, induction rooms, no central holding areas), the MAYO-Clinic (45 OR's) as well as the hospital in Leuven (16 OR's) have central holding areas, an integrated post anaesthesia care unit. Both hospitals have induction rooms which are no longer in use due to cost constraints. The hospital in Leuven shows an efficient work in small teams without nurse anaesthetists and an OR layout which supports overview and supervision.
Work and Teamwork Transparency an Ergonomic Assessment in Operating Room Facilities
Authors: Held Jürgen , Krueger Helmut
Published: January 2012

The objective is to analyse anaesthesia workplaces in a multidisciplinary operating room facility, to understand the causes for problematic work procedures and to decide for improvements. The analysis include: observations, computerised recording of tasks and movements with the FIT-System, video and photo documentation. Documents are designed to confront the users with their own work situation and to support the explication of their knowledge in a semi-structured interview.

The results are important lacks in: the misplaced devices outside of the human's zones of reach and view, the difficult procedures to attach the lines between the patient and the devices and inconsistent workplace layouts. The causes therefore are design decision faults during the installation of the facility. The decisions for improvements are: the development of a new concept for a flexible equipment positioning and the design of a tool for cable handling.

The discussion is, that from the project's beginning the users mentioned the handling of the cables and lines as the mainly cause for work difficulties. But the outstanding ergonomist had a broader view of problems. The used method invokes a mutual (ergonomist and users) learn process and results in a common understanding of the problem's background.