bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ageing and New Technologies in Data Processing
Authors: Miguel López Luis
Published: January 2012

Before, the new technologies stability in the work was requested, today in addition requests adaptation to the new technologies. We also observed that the wage-earners of age barely are represented in the formation, existing stereotypes on the part of the employers and even of such interested on the motivation and the capacity to learn. The people of greater age need more time to arrive at a comparable level of results to the one the young people, presenting/displaying difficulties to manipulate the abstract and space material. When the tasks are complex and/or when the progression of the learning is fast the difficulties happen, nevertheless the learning is superior for the people of greater age when this it rests previously on acquired knowledge. The phenomena of the aging on the learning remain moderate until (towards) the 60 years (during the period of professional activity) and the inter-individual variability increases with the age. Concerning the learning and the formation he is advisable to associate the wage-earners in the way of the change, to apply a indicated pedagogy and to tranquilize the people of greater age in relation to the use and the situation of learning. To avoid an extreme specialization that would lock up to them in its activities and to make the really continuous formation during the professional course. It would be necessary reflections on the versatility and the conception of new tools to maintain the capacity to learn. These and other investigations would allow to affirm with greater force than the age does not constitute handicap necessarily and that the age people are perfectly able to learn when the methods are adapted.
Learning New Maintenance Skills by Young and Older Workers
Authors: Delgoulet Catherine , Marquié Jean-Claude
Published: January 2012

This study is about the training of workers whose age was 25 and 49 years. It focused more especially on: learning anxiety, behavioral strategies and learning performance. It resulted that older trainees succeeded as well as their younger counterparts, but showed higher learning anxiety. Their learning behavior also differed in several ways. Such differences must be taken into account in designing training courses.
A Decision Making Model of the Allocation of Blame in Product Liability
Authors: Resnick Marc L.
Published: January 2012

There has been a great deal of research recently into the allocation of blame in product liability cases. Studies have investigated how blame is allocated in a broad variety of situations among parties such as consumers, manufacturers, retailers, children, employers, and others. These studies have provided companies with guidance on how to maximize the effects of their safety efforts and attorneys with advice on how to select jurors and how much information to provide during trial. However, none of these studies has generated a general cognitive model that describes and can predict the allocation of blame. Such a model would enable more detailed analysis of the decision making process that underlies the allocation of blame. This paper will describe the elaboration of a naturalistic decision making model applied to the allocation of blame. The results of several research projects will be explained using this framework. Suggestions for future work that would refine the model are presented.
Designing for Medical Work Domains: Challenges, Directions, Opportunities
Authors: Hajdukiewicz John R.
Published: January 2012

This purpose of this panel is to debate the challenges, directions, and opportunities for design in medical work domains. One of the ultimate goals is to have the Human Factors community establish a leadership position in medical design practice. The panelists will discuss various perspectives and issues related to problem identification, data collection, analysis, design, and implementation. These views set the stage for creating recommendations that can be implemented and have real impact.
Reducing Sample Sizes When User Testing with People Who Have, and Who are Simulating Disabilities - Experiences with Blindness and Public Information Kiosks
Authors: Law Chris M. , Vanderheiden Gregg C.
Published: January 2012

Researchers have suggested running fewer subjects to reduce costs of usability testing of mainstream products (Virzi 1990, 1992, Nielsen and Landauer, 1993, Lewis, 1994). It has been demonstrated that, depending on the average probability of subjects revealing problems ( p), most of the problems inherent in an interface will be found in the first few subjects, and adding more subjects gives little return on investment. As part of an investigation aimed at reducing costs in user testing of people with disabilities, a user test was conducted to compare the differences between a group of 15 blind, and 15 blindfolded (sighted) subjects using a touchscreen public information kiosk that was intended for use by people who cannot see. The number and type of problems found by each group were compared, and it was found that the results between each group were mostly similar: the value of p was within 3% (blind p=0.31; blindfolded p=0.34); each group found 46 of a total 53 problems (and therefore did not find 7 problems that the other group found, 6 of which were low frequency problems); 80% of the problems were found by the first 6, and the first 5 subjects of the blind and blindfolded groups respectively; the number of problems found in four evaluation categories were also similar. The need for further study in this area, in terms of tests using different disability types and other types of subjective and objective measures, and possibilities for using mixed subject pools of people who have and people who are simulating disabilities, are discussed.
The Contribution of Ergonomics to the Design of Hospital Architecture
Authors: Villeneuve Jocelyn
Published: January 2012

While the contribution of architecture to construction projects is not in doubt, that of ergonomics raises a number of questions. What does ergonomics have to do with architecture? How does its contribution add value to a project? What does the ergonomist do that an architect cannot do? To answer these questions, the shared ground and exclusive fields of the two disciplines need to be defined. In this paper, the specific contribution of ergonomics is illustrated by the results of an intervention in a new hospital construction project.
Developing a Technique to Measure Anesthesiologists' Real-Time Workload
Authors: Vredenburgh Alison G. , Weinger Matthew B. , Williams Kevin J. , Kalsher Michael J. , Macario Alex
Published: January 2012

Workload is a construct used to describe the extent to which an operator has engaged the cognitive and physical resources required for task performance. As task difficulty increases, operators allocate more resources to maintain acceptable performance. The purpose of the present study is to develop a technique to measure workload continuously, with high-resolution in real-time, and in a way that accounts for the contribution of multiple individual task components of the job of administering anesthesia. Workload associated with 51 clinical tasks performed by anesthesiologists was assessed using a written survey instrument, developed for this study. Participants were 241 anesthesia providers. Interval scale values were computed for each of the tasks using direct estimatation procedures. These values were then used to produce workload density maps for actual anesthesia cases by weighting the tasks performed during the case by their workload scale values. Moment-by-moment data on the specific tasks performed by anesthesiologists were obtained in real-time by trained observers during actual anesthetic cases. This type of analysis can be used to evaluate the costs associated with technical anesthesia procedures, increase our understanding of the anesthesiologist's job, and guide rational optimization of procedures, equipment, scheduling, and training.
Early Return to Work of Injured Workers: Organizational Facilitators and Obstacles in Quebec Companies
Authors: R Baril , D Berthelette , C Ross , D Gourde , P Massicotte , A Pajot
Published: January 2012

The objectives of the present exploratory study were to identify the components of interventions that promote early return to work (early-RTW) and establishing a theoretical model capable of explaining variation in the way early-RTW measures are implemented.
Reported Behavior to Hypothetical Hurricane Warnings: Examining the Importance of Warning Content
Authors: Hitt James M. , Mouloua Mustapha , Morris Christina
Published: January 2012

The current study examined the factors of importance when deciding actions to take when a hurricane warning has been issued. Self-reports were made by participants related to predicted behavior to each of 16 vignettes describing a hurricane scenario. In addition, reports of what each participant felt others would behave were also collected. Results showed four variables (strength of storm, estimated time of arrival, current weather, and number of false alarm warnings) were significant predictors of all three self-reported behaviors (evacuate, prepare but don't evacuate, and do nothing) and two of the predicted behavior of others (evacuate and do nothing). The results are discussed in terms of hurricane warning content.
Effects of Warning Symbol Explicitness and Warning Color on Behavioral Compliance
Authors: Shaver Eric F. , Braun Curt C.
Published: January 2012

Previous research has shown that signal words, warning colors, and symbol explicitness can affect warning effectiveness and hazard perceptions. This study assessed the impact of two warning colors, two warning sign types, and two levels of symbol explicitness on college student behavior. Scaffolding was erected in front of a building to simulate a construction area, and warning signs were placed on one door instructing individuals to use an alternate exit. Warning effectiveness was assessed by comparing transformed proportion data based on the number of people exiting the building. The presence of a sign significantly altered traffic patterns. The traffic patterns did not vary as a function of warning color, sign type, or symbol explicitness.
Development, Validation, and Limiations of an Expert System for Safety and Health Concerns in Technology Development
Authors: McMullin Dianne L. , Akladios Magdy , Gopalakrishnan B. , Myers Warren R. , Becker Paul E.
Published: January 2012

Hazardous waste remediation projects, like many other technologies, are experiencing a rapid change in technology triggered by the continuous demand for better, faster, and cheaper cleanup technologies. TEXPERT, a web-based expert system for safety and health, is beginning its third year of development. The goal of the project was to provide appropriate worker safety and health information to technology designers during the design process. A group of ergonomists, safety engineers, and industrial hygienists and a group of computer systems specialists first produced a prototype of an evaluation system for a single, simple technology. Armed with this success and lessons learned, the developers expanded the system to allow evaluation of an almost endless number of technologies. The developers determined that the majority of technologies contain a finite number of components (e.g. compressors, storage tanks, etc.). Rules and knowledge bases were then developed for each component. The components act as building blocks that can be assembled by the designer into a representation of his/her technology. Each component has design questions that result in a list of probable safety/health events, recommendations and standard operating procedures to lessen the risk of the events, and probabilities and severities associated with the events. Considerations undertaken by the TEXPERT development team were the human-computer interface, the safety/health knowledge level of designers, the interaction between components, the interface between databases and the expert system shell, the time required vs. detail level of the expert system, and the vast array of technologies that could be evaluated.
Application of the Case-Crossover Design to the Study of Occupational Acute Traumatic Hand Injury
Authors: Sorock Gary S. , Lombardi David A. , Hauser Russ B. , Eisen Ellen A. , Herrick Robert F. , Mittleman Murray A.
Published: January 2012

We conducted a case-crossover study of transient risk factors for occupational acute traumatic hand injury in 232 subjects recruited from occupational health clinics in New England. The a priori hazard period was 10 minutes before the injury. The control period for each subject was the total work-time exposed in the previous month. The relative risk for using malfunctioning or different from usual equipment or tools in the hazard period was 21.2 (95% confidence interval = 15.7–28.6). Relative risks were also significantly elevated for performing a task using an unusual work method, doing an unusual task, being distracted, or being rushed. Wearing gloves was protective (relative risk = 0.6, 95% confidence interval = 0.3–0.9). We conclude that the case-crossover design is an appropriate method for studying transient risk factors for sudden-onset occupational injury.
An Exploratory Analysis and Comparison of Railroad Employee Injuries on Rights-Of-Way and in Yards
Authors: Reinach Stephen J. , Popkin Stephen M.
Published: January 2012

The railroad industry is one of the oldest transportation industries in the United States, and until the late 20th century, it was also considered one of the most dangerous. Although this industry has made vast safety improvements in the last 20 years, railroad employees continue to be exposed to hazardous working conditions. Railroads are required by law to provide the Federal Railroad Administration with monthly summaries of injuries and illnesses that occur on railroad property. However, only in 1997 were railroads first required to report the specific railroad location where the injury occurred. Research was conducted to examine whether there were differences between injuries occurring in yards and those occurring on rights-of-way. Comparisons of these data indicate that, although railroad yards appear to be more dangerous in terms of the injury rate and resulting number of lost workdays, there are a lot of similarities in the characteristics of the injuries occurring in both locations. These results can be used to structure cost-effective safety and training programs that are appropriate to both environments.
Occupational Accidents Related to Permanent Stairs, Stepladders and Working Platforms at Two Large Process Industry Sites in Finland
Authors: Sinisammal Janne , Väyrynen Seppo , Saaranen Petri
Published: January 2012

This paper describes the study design and gives the first results of a project in which occupational accidents related to permanent means of access - stairs, stepladders and working platforms - are investigated carefully. The study began on the 1st of June 1998 and is planned to be continued at least for five years to get enough cases for statistical analysis. The results of the first twelve months are reported.
Conceptual Modeling of Intelligent Databases for Safety Applications in Offshore Industry
Authors: Vidal Mario Cesar , de Souza Almeida Carlos
Published: January 2012

The present poster derives from research and developments in cognitive engineering issues to accident prevention in diving activities for maintenance of offshore petroleum exploitation in Campos, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Its inspection and specific maintenance intervention enhances the deep diving at 300–400m and in high saturation, leading to a complex and dangerous activity needing to be supported by cognitive and organizational support at the diving vessel. We present a part of this research, focusing the cognitive support for deep diving maintenance in the accident and loss prevention perspective.
An Ergonomic Evaluation of Cleco Pliers
Authors: Chao Anjen , Kumar Anil J. , Emery Cam T.N.D. , Nagarajarao Kumar , You Heecheon
Published: January 2012

Repetitive use of a hand tool requiring large forces along with unnatural postures can cause musculoskeletal disorders in the upper extremity. Cleco pliers are used to install fasteners to sheet metals in aircraft manufacturing. The present study compares two types of mechanical Cleco piers in terms of repetition, grip force, posture, and discomfort and identifies their major design features which affect the ergonomic interface between the hand and the tool.
An Integrative Approach to Warnings Research
Authors: Edworthy Judy
Published: January 2012

This article provides a broad and general framework for warning research. It combines a traditional cost/benefit utility model of decision making with research concerned with warning design, showing how the two can complement one another. The main elements of the framework are discussed and the central research tasks which need to be carried out in order to elucidate the model and framework are summarised.
Determining Warning Label Content and Format Using Emea
Authors: Lehto Mark R.
Published: January 2012

Error Modes and Effects Analysis (EMEA) is a recently developed procedure intended to help practitioners systematically apply cognitive guidelines regarding the appropriate content and format of a warning sign or label. The EMEA procedure includes elements of Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA), task analysis, and Rasmussen's SRK levels of performance taxonomy. The first step in EMEA is to identify inappropriate or missing responses within particular stages of user or purchaser interaction with the product. Focus then shifts to identifying the frequency and effect of each inappropriate or missing response, its behavioral basis stratified by the level of task performance at which it might occur, and existing and potential intervention strategies. Two case studies are presented illustrating the application of this approach.
Effects of the United States Alcohol Warning Label on Adolescents
Authors: MacKinnon David P. , Nohre Liva
Published: January 2012

This article summarizes research on the effects of the United States alcohol warning label on adolescents. Most research evaluating alcohol warning effects on adolescents is from a study consisting of repeated cross-sectional samples of tenth and twelfth graders starting before the warning was required in 1989 and collected each year until 1995. There were substantial changes over time in awareness of and memory for the content of the warning label, but these effects leveled off after a few years. There was not convincing evidence of changes in alcohol-related beliefs, alcohol use, or risky alcohol-related behaviors as a result of the warning. Laboratory studies of the alcohol warning label explored issues regarding the optimal warning label content. These results were generally consistent with other research with adult participants.
A Retrospective Study of Occupational Slips, Trips and Falls across Industries
Authors: Cotnam John P. , Chang Wen-Ruey , Courtney Theodore K.
Published: January 2012

This paper investigates the significance of occupational injuries related to slips and falls on the same level and from elevation based on claims data collected over a six-year period by a major U.S. workers' compensation insurer. The relative percent of claims and claim costs associated with slips and falls varies by industry sector. Construction industry proportions of claims and claim costs associated with falls from elevation ranked first compared with all other industries examined. The claim and claim costs proportions associated with falls on the same level were highest in the retail industry. Despite the significance of the problem, there has been no significant change in the proportion of fall related claims (either on the same level or from elevation) compared to all reported claims by industry type from 1993 to 1998. Results suggest the need for increased research activity to explore the causes and identify interventions which can reduce the sizable losses in industry.
Validity and Reliability of Transitional Floor Friction Tests: The Effect of Normal Load and Sliding Velocity
Authors: Grönqvist Raoul , Chang Wen-Ruey , Hirvonen Mikko , Rajamäki Erkki , Tohv Asta
Published: January 2012

The capability of a test method to estimate slip resistance depends on its validity and reliability, i.e., lack of systematic and random errors in the measurement process. A prototype portable slipmeter was used to study the sensitivity of transitional friction tests for predicting floor slipperiness. The effects of normal load and sliding velocity on the validity and reliability of the test method were assessed in particular. A lower sliding velocity (0.15 m/s) in combination with a higher normal load (200 N) led to optimum validity and reliability. For this optimum set of parameters, the Spearman's rank correlation coefficient with respect to subjective paired comparisons was 0.74 (p < 0.05) in the wet test condition.
Heel Contact Dynamics during Slip Events
Authors: Cham Rakié , Musolino Mark , Redfern Mark S.
Published: January 2012

Slips and falls are a major cause of injuries. In order to measure slip resistance under biomechanically relevant conditions, foot forces and motion from actual slip events must be known. This study recorded such biomechanical data. Six subjects walked on a level and 10° ramp with 2 possible contaminant conditions (dry, oil). Foot forces and motion were recorded at 350 Hz. Heel contact (HC) dynamics were compared among no-slip, slip-recovery and slip-fall events. Walking on oil generated patterns of backward/forward sliding foot motion similar to that on dry surfaces, but with higher peak velocities and more movement. Shear forces generated by the foot at HC were delayed on the oily surface compared to the dry surface.
Handling of Use Errors with Medical Devices
Authors: Wallroth Carl F.
Published: January 2012

In overview on emerging process standards is presented which are streamlining the handling of use errors by industry and a proposal to regulatory authorities is outlined on how to handle use errors under adverse event reporting procedures.
Hand Ergonomics Symposium
Authors: Hallbeck M. Susan
Published: January 2012

The primary objectives of this multi-session symposium are to 1) bring together professionals in the many areas of hand ergonomics, 2) highlight the current state of research in the field of hand ergonomics and 3) to focus on the direction for future research. The area of hand ergonomics encompasses anthropometry, strength, biomechanics, and cumulative trauma disorders in the hand and wrist. The hand and wrist strength, biomechanics, and potential cumulative trauma disorders are influenced by tools such as hand tools and input devices, by personal protective equipment such as gloves, or by tasks which induce fatigue, repetition and awkward postures. The researchers must be joined by practitioners using case studies from the field. By grouping the hand and wrist ergonomics under a unified multi-session symposium the presenters and attendees can put all the subsets of hand ergonomics together and focus on the future needs in hand ergonomics.
Assessing Ergonomics Maturity Level
Authors: Gibson Sheree L.
Published: January 2012

Many companies have attempted to integrate ergonomics into their operations, but have failed to achieve the success they wanted. Often people don't realize that such a change does not happen suddenly, but usually occurs over a period of years. Most companies begin learning about ergonomics when an injury occurs. They follow a recognizable maturation process, becoming more effective in using ergonomics with each successive level. These levels of ergonomic maturity are easily identified through a supervisor or manager's verbal response to an injury. Recognizing the maturity level of the company can help the consultant (or company personnel) realize what needs to be done in order for the organization to mature and to utilize ergonomics more effectively.
Biomechanical Analysis of Low - Back Load during Materials Handling and its Whole - Shift Monitoring within the Dortmund Lumbar Load Study - Dolly
Authors: Jäger Matthias , Luttmann Alwin , Jordan Claus , Laurig Wolfgang
Published: January 2012

In the so-called Dortmund Lumbar Load Study (DOLLY), the load on the lumbar spine was quantitatively monitored for complete shifts in diverse fields, i.e. for the materials handling tasks in construction and metal-processing industries as well as in a meat-processing factory and for dustbin removal. Video recording of 8 shifts was performed, actual posture was described and the action forces applied at the hands were determined for each work situation. Based on the respective data for posture and handforces, lumbar load was calculated applying the 3D biomechanical model The Dortmunder for each working situation, in total between approx. 4 and 22 thousands per shift. Shift-monitored temporal profiles for several load indicators - trunk flexion and torsional moments, compression and shear forces with respect to the lumbosacral joint - describe the load on the lumbar spine. Comprehensive results with regard to posture, handforces and lumbar load are available. Several load indices regarding load level, duration and the cumulative effects were defined and applied for assessing the analysed jobs.

In relation to recommended limits for the maximal disc compression, lumbar load is exceeded in numerous situations during a shift, in particular, with regard to persons of higher age. In a “dose model” developed in this study, the cumulative effect of single-task exposures was considered by superproportional weighting of the compressive force with respect to the corresponding duration of a working task, based on the higher injury potential of high loads compared to - although longer effective - low loads.
Trunk Modelling Procedures and Errors in Net Lumbar Loading
Authors: Gagnon Denis , Larivière Christian
Published: January 2012

The use of 3D upper body link models to estimate net lumbar loading requires adequate modelling of the trunk segment. Various methods to obtain body segment parameters and partition the trunk were contrasted to evaluate their impact on L5/S1 net joint moments for some simple and complex lifting tasks. Appropriate combinations of body segment parameters and trunk partitioning reduced L5/S1 net joint moment errors, especially for subjects characterised by a larger abdomen. Trunk modelling procedures considering the variability inherent to trunk morphology and non-rigidity should be preferred for inverse dynamic analysis of lifting through an upper body link model.
Effects of Trunk Muscle Fatigue on Spine Mechanics during Repetitive Asymmetrical Lifting
Authors: Fraser Derek , Potvin Jim , Jones Jeff
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of repetitive lifting on trunk muscle activity and spine kinematics during an intense, forty minute, asymmetrical lifting and lowering task. Contrary to many previous sagittal plane materials handling studies, the asymmetrical task did result in differences in kinematics between lifting and lowering. Further, there were few consistent effects of fatigue on trunk muscle activity and only spine flexion was observed to decrease over the course of the trials. However, some individual subjects did demonstrate fatigue related changes that may have increased their risk of injury if performed over prolonged periods.
Job and Workplace Design – Applying Occupational Ergonomics in Heavy Industry
Authors: McPhee Barbara
Published: January 2012

In the application of ergonomics for the prevention of illness and injury in the workplace, ergonomists must be an agent of change. As well as the physical design of the workplace there are other essential elements in good work design, which often allude managers, and maybe, sometimes, ergonomists. These include work organisation; job content; balancing work demands and control over workload, support and training. Often these aspects are difficult to identify simply using traditional ergonomics assessment methods.

In Australia managers are expected to consult with employees and to encourage them to participate in designing work to minimise risks to health and safety. This participative process is likely to improve the outcome but is also a legal requirement.

Participative risk management techniques, now commonly used in safety management systems, are a good method for systematically addressing workplace ergonomics issues. They can provide simple, effective methods for identifying problems and developing solutions.
Company Strategies and Program for Implementing Ergonomics
Authors: Aarås Arne
Published: January 2012

Three periods of work environmental activity in the company will be presented. 1. A period without a work environmental organization and an environmental budget. 2. The period when an environmental organization with a separate work environmental budget was established. 3. A period when the company was divided in three companies without a separate work environmental budget, but still an environmental organization.
A Software Tool That Provides Guidance on Thermal Comfort Conditions for People with Physical Disabilities
Authors: Webb Lynda H. , Bailey Adrian D. , Parsons Kenneth C.
Published: January 2012

This paper describes a computer model that provides guidance on the thermal comfort responses and preferences of people with physical disabilities.

The model uses data gathered during a three year project funded by the United Kingdom Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council. 150 subjects spent three two hour sessions in a thermal chamber where they were exposed to three environments: 18.5°C PMV=-1.5 (slightly cool to cool); 23°C PMV=0 (neutral); and 29°C, PMV=+1.5 (slightly warm to warm). Ten categories of disability are presented in the model they are: cerebral palsy, spinal injury, spinal degeneration, Spina bifida, hemiplegia & Stroke, Polio, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, head injury and multiple sclerosis.

The model contains the raw data from the study and with a user friendly front end can produce a variety of graphical data analysis charts and summary information including sensation, preference and satisfaction. Disabilities can be investigated singularly or grouped. The model runs on versions of Excel 3 or above.
Thermal Comfort of Severely Disabled Children in Nursery Schools in Japan
Authors: Yoshida Joseph Akira , Nomura Midori , Mikami Kosei , Hachisu Hiroo
Published: January 2012

In 1979, primary and secondary school education has become the duty for every disabled child in Japan and government should prepare schools even for the most severely disabled ones. Thus, in Yokohama city, today they have five special schools for children each of whom suffers severe combined physical and mental disabilities. Such combined disabilities were usually thought to be a kind of severe cerebral palsy. However, teachers in these schools have observed these children have some severe thermo-regulatory disorders which are not usually found in cerebral palsy adults. In 1997–8 we executed a questionnaire to teachers on observed thermal responses about all school children and behaviour observations by our staff in these five special schools. Nearly 40% of school children suffer thermo-regulative disorder. Wide variations were found in the symptoms of thermo-regulative disorder even in air-conditioned school rooms. This paper reports statistical analysis of the results of the questionnaire and observations, and discusses future problems.
Supporting the Forearms in a Neutral Position when Doing VDU Work. Primary Prevention of Musculoskeletal Pain
Authors: Aarås Arne , Ro Ola , Horgen Gunnar
Published: January 2012

Giving VDU (Visual Dispaly Unit) operators the possibility to support the forearms on the table top in front of them and operate the mouse with a more neutral position of the forearm, reduced the muscle load significantly. This was true for extensor digitorum communis, extensor carpi ulnaris and musculus trapezius. When applying this ergonomic solution, a corresponding reduction of pain in the upper part of the body was found.
Physiological Response to Submaximal Contractions of the Paravertebral Muscles
Authors: Jensen B.R. , JØrgensen K. , Hargens A. , Nielsen P.K. , Nicolaisen T.
Published: January 2012

The aim was to evaluate paravertebral EMG (electromyography) and intramuscular pressure as indicators of force development and to evaluate the relationship of tissue oxygenation with intramuscular pressure and force development during brief and prolonged paravertebral muscle contractions. Brief (30 s) trunk extensions were performed at 5, 20, 40, 60 and 80% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). Prolonged contraction (3 min) were performed at 20% MVC.

The RMS-amplitudes of the paravertebral EMG and the intramuscular pressure measured at L4 level increased with greater force development in a curva-linear manner. A significant decrease in the oxygenation of the lumbar vertebral muscle in response to muscle contraction was found at an initial level of 20 %MVC. This corresponded to a paravertebral intramuscular pressure of 30–40 mmHg. However, during the prolonged trunk extension, no further decrease in the tissue oxygenation was found compared to the tissue oxygenation level at the end of the brief contractions, indicating that homeostatic adjustments over time were sufficient to maintain paravertebral muscle oxygenation levels.
Validation of a Low-Back Disorder Risk Model in a Prospective Study of Ergonomic Interventions into Manual Materials Handling Jobs
Authors: Marras William S. , Allread W. Gary , Burr Deborah L. , Fathallah Fadi A.
Published: January 2012

Few tools used to evaluate the low-back disorder (LBD) risk of manual materials handling (MMH) tasks have assessed their predictive ability. Only valid and accurate tools can reliably determine if an ergonomic intervention will reduce injury. This study evaluated how well a LBD Risk model predicted LBD rate changes of modified jobs. A prospective cohort was used to study 36 repetitive, MMH jobs (32 having had an ergonomic intervention and four comparison jobs having no such change). Employees' trunk motions and work place factors were observed pre- and post-intervention, and the jobs' LBD rates were recorded for these periods. Results indicated a significant correlation between changes in the jobs' predicted LBD Risk values and changes in their actual LBD rates. Linear and Poisson regression models predicted a change in a job's LBD rate and the number of LBDs, respectively, as a function of the job's risk change. This prospective study also showed which ergonomic interventions reduced the jobs' mean LBD rates. This study supports use of the LBD Risk model to accurately assess a job's potential to produce LBDs.
Trade-offs between Trunk Flexion, Hip Flexion, and Knee Angle in Lifting below Waist Level
Authors: Splittstoesser R.E. , Davis K.G. , Marras W.S.
Published: January 2012

This study quantified trunk, hip and knee kinematics during realistic lifting to determine the influence of origin height on lifting style. Ten male participants lifted boxes from several origins ranging from the floor to waist height. The three-dimensional motions of the trunk, hip and knee were recorded. Maximum trunk flexion, knee flexion, and hip flexion increased as lift origin decreased (closer to the floor). Back, knee and hip sagittal angles showed significantly increased correlations as the origins became closer to the floor. Subjects appeared to coordinate their hips, back and knees during the lift for origins below knee height. For lifts above knee height, the lifting style resembled more of a stoop lift while lifts originating below knee height were more of a squat lift. As none of the conditions resulted in pure squat or stoop lifting, discretion is needed in applying the results of pure squat or pure stoop lifting studies to the workplace.
Exposure to Forceful Exertions and Vibration in a Foundry
Authors: Marshall Matthew M. , Armstrong Thomas J. , Martin Bernard J. , Foulke James A. , Grieshaber D. Christian , Malone Gwen
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this research is to describe the results of a study that investigated the exposure of workers in a foundry to ergonomic risk factors. This presentation describes the characteristics of the tools investigated during this research with respect to physical work factors such as muscle activity, upper extremity posture, hand repetition, and exposure to hand/arm vibration. The analysis is based on the use of instrumentation as well as the use of observational methods to quantify these physical work elements.
Studies for the Evaluation of Human-Body Exposure to Whole-Body Vibration at Very Low Frequencies
Authors: Uchikune Masashi , Shirakawa Sachiko
Published: January 2012

There was the International Standard for a resident on the reaction of horizontal vibration from a traffic system and building and structure of ocean and so on. These effects were not evaluated yet by physiological method for the present. It showed, however, that the criterion curve evaluated a psychological method on the basis of the comfortable and uncomfortable feelings and did not establish by using the physiological data up to now. In this study, it tested the low frequency vibration to find the mutual effects by the physiological and psychological measuring method for fore-and-aft below 0.1Hz. The study has adopted a physiological measuring method of reflex of the autonomic nervous system and has adopted a psychological measuring method of evaluation of the introspective five and seven grades according to the twenty items. The result of this study has been used for the establishment of health guidance caution on the various transportation systems and structures, including occupational health. Furthermore these new data have made it possible to exhibit the applicability to the standard for the evaluation of a lower range.
Ergonomics and Human Reengineering of Work
Authors: Grozdanovic Miroljub , Obrenovic Jovisa
Published: January 2012

Concept human reengineering defines fundamental reexamination and radical redesign of human and technologic systems for the purpose of “dramatic” raise where is itended work satisfaction of people by using new skills, knowledges and abilities to achieve that aim.
Effects of Grip Span and Shoulder Posture on Endurance Limit of Force
Authors: Eksioglu Mahmut
Published: January 2012

This study investigated the effects of shoulder posture and grip span on endurance limit (EL) of continuous isometric hand-grip force. The results indicate that grip span, thus, muscle contractile length is an important parameter that should be considered in modeling of EL and relaxation allowances in addition to hand tool design.
Cost-Effective Alternative Methods for Office Workstation Measurements: Self-Assessment and Partnered-Assessment
Authors: Joines Sharon M. B. , Sommerich Carolyn M.
Published: January 2012

In office settings with a large number of employees, workstation measurement can be a time consuming task for an ergonomist. In seeking ways to reduce the time scheduled for this task, a study was designed to determine if anthropometric and workstation information could be accurately collected by employees themselves or by two-person teams consisting of an employee and a co-worker. An iterative process was used to develop a method that would: 1) require a minimum number of measurements to be made by the employees, 2) produce an acceptable level of accuracy, and 3) provide complete and useful information to an ergonomist. Results of the study show acceptable accuracy when using a combined assisted and unassisted data collection approach.
Lower Extremity Pain Assessment during the Use of Custom Built Foot Supports in the Workplace – A Proactive Ergonomic Approach
Authors: Bacon Todd
Published: January 2012

This paper describes a statistical analysis of industrial workers' lower extremity pain levels during the use of custom built foot supports. Inferences were drawn from the results of the analysis of variance (ANOVA) to determine whether there is significant difference in pain levels between participants in the placebo group (PG) and foot support group (FSG). The resulting reductions in pain levels are presented. The difference between the PG and the FSG is marginally significant with a p-value of .063. The work environment can be an ideal setting in which to apply a proactive ergonomic approach to identify and understand ground reaction forces and pain levels of the foot and lower extremities.
Ergonomic Conditions of Material Handlers and Drivers Employed by a Truck Freight Transportation Company. Medellin, Colombia S.A., 1998
Authors: Piedrahita H. , Suratep S.A.
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this research was to identify and evaluate the degree of severity of unfavorable ergonomic conditions of 159 employees working for an over-land freight transportation company operating in Colombia. The objective of the study was to suggest comprehensive risk-factor control strategies. Suratep's “Workplace Comprehensive Ergonomic Profile” method was used to identify ergonomic conditions and rank the degree of “severity” of their effect. The above-mentioned method consists of the review of aspects related to workplace design, body handling, some environmental factors, and psycho-social variables inherent with the job. Aspects related to body handling were identified as the most affected in the material handler's position, especially those related to material handling and transportation. The leading cause of morbidity, as referred to by workers in the last year, had to do with the lower back region. Analysis of the results obtained in the research, establishes that aspects related to body handling are critical, and must be addressed with priority. Other aspects were also analyzed, and, though important, they were found to be within levels which are considered satisfactory by the research methodology but must be improved both in the short and long ranges.
A Study on Adaptive Action Development-Interference of Mood States with Perceived Performance and Perceived Efficacy
Authors: Saito M. , Ikeda M. , Seki H
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study was to identify the interdependent structure of endogenous variables representing internal world of human cognition and exogenous variables representing work and living environment in external universe by using male workers engaging beverage manufacturing plants. Major concern was placed on the interference of mood states at work with other endogenous variables representing perceived performance, perceived efficacy and perceived health. Significant difference in perceived performance, efficacy and health were observed among four group of mood states and an asymmetrical interference of mood states with the perceptions was observed between group 3 and group 4. The results suggested that vigorous mood plays an important role in promoting adaptive level to job environment. A moderated effect model in which the mood state representing T-***, D-D, F and C was dealt with as exogenous variable giving effects on perceived performance and directly and indirectly on perceived health was adopted as the most appropriate linkage to explain reality of workplace.
A Study of Biomechanical Measurement on the Lower Part of Body for Korean Adults
Authors: Kim Jin Ho , Kang Sheen Gil , Lim Hyun Kyoon , Park Soo Chan
Published: January 2012

A protocol to measure the dynamic characteristic of body in vivo was developed using the photogrammetry system. This system consisted of VICON 140, KRISSMAS, force platform, and auxiliary equipment that were implemented for this study. The program, KRISSMAS developed for motion analysis in the motion analysis laboratory, KRISS, was modified to analysis inertia data from this experiment. This system was very convenient for measuring dynamic anthropometric data such as mass, center of mass, and moment of inertia, etc.
Designing Trolleys for the New Millennia
Authors: Wilkinson W.S.
Published: January 2012

Trolley design has been of concern to industry and society for centuries, with trolleys used for ease of transportation of all types of materials. Perhaps one of the most infamous current examples is that of the shopping trolley or cart where multitudes of solutions have been developed. Little effective commercial result has been achieved due to complicated designs being unable to be manufactured in volume and often poor dynamic performance. User concerns relate to a number of Ergonomic factors including the difficulty associated with steering a trolley with all swivel castors or combinations of fixed wheels and swivel castors, resulting in excessive steering and operating forces, the inadequacy of the handles provided to interface with the user population and poor ergonomic design of the load space. Add irregular or carpeted surfaces, cost compromises, designer ignorance and the problems the end user experiences are significant and may result in injury in a high usage workplace application. This paper summarises our extensive research and development that has led to commercial manufacture of a range of ergonomically designed trolley products specifically aimed at eliminating injury and improving productivity in workplaces.
A Study of the Relationship between Personality and Risk Factors for Musculoskeletal Disorders
Authors: Allread W. Gary
Published: January 2012

Personality theory states that people perceive and react to life events differently. Situations stressful to some, due to their personality type, may be appealing to others. The goal of this research was to study if physical laborers whose personalities were better matched with the nature of their work exhibited less psychosocial strain and injury risk than those more of a mismatched. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator was used to assess the personality of 182 employees, who also answered questions about their work history, psychosocial environment, and work place. The job's physical demands also were recorded. Results indicated that interactions existed between employees' personalities, their responses to several psychosocial measures, and the job's physical requirements. Employees whose personalities were more mismatched with their work environment often exhibited higher psychosocial strain. These results provide an initial indication that use of personality theory can help us better understand the pathways by which individuals become injured while performing physical work. This research also aids ergonomists in designing the physical and psychosocial aspects of the work place to more completely match the capabilities, limitations, and preferences of people with their jobs.
Mood Ratings at Work and Job Strain and Their Relation to Neck and Shoulder Symptoms
Authors: Kjellberg Anders , Hanse Jan Johansson , Franzon Helena , Holmgren Charlotta
Published: January 2012

The relationship between the psychosocial factors at work (psychological demands, decision latitude, and social support) and two aspects of mental load (Stress and Energy) was studied among 179 employees in a car body factory (137 men, 42 women). Regression analyses showed that Stress was positively correlated with Psychological demands, and Energy with Decision latitude. Shoulder and neck symptoms were more common among those who reported high stress; shoulder symptoms were also associated with high Psychological demands.