bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Muscular Activity at Low Level - Experience from Whole-Day Emg Field Recordings
Authors: Hansson G.-Å. , Asterland P. , Skerfving S.
Published: January 2012

Musculoskeletal disorders of the neck and shoulders is a major problem for both the individual and the society. The preventive actions have, so fare, seldom been successful, and further research on the relation between muscular activity and disorders are needed. It has been hypothesised that, even for the lowest activity of a muscle, the same fibres may always be activated (the Cinderella hypothesis). Thus, the relative duration of muscular rest is of special interest to study. Moreover, during prolonged activity at low levels, there might be a rotation of the activation between motor units, which coincides with the occurrence of short periods of EMG silence (gaps).

Hence, whole-day electromyographic recordings (EMG), especially from the trapezius muscle, and characterisation of the low-level activity during real work, is most relevant in studies of neck and shoulder disorders. However, since the signal is in the μV range and with a wide frequency content (≈10 to 1,000 Hz), it is hard to acquire and certify high quality data. The quality may be improved by use of preamplifiers and ambulatory data loggers. Moreover, by calculating, and screening, the power spectra of the EMG, the mean power frequency and an artefact index, remaining possible artefacts may be detected. By inspecting the digitised (raw) EMG, these possible artefacts are then considered, and if appropriate, rejected, thus assuring a high quality of the data.

In a study of cleaners and office workers - where we considered the statistical, rather than the physiological, properties of muscular rest and gap frequency - the optimal criteria for gap duration and threshold level were practically the same as the ones earlier used. As a general measure of task load, muscular rest is more suitable than gap frequency, and normalisation to a submaximal, rather than a maximal, reference contraction may be preferable.
Is Awareness an Important Factor in Learning Better Posture?
Authors: Ogawa Iiji
Published: January 2012

This study consisted of two (2) experiments. The objective of Experiment 1 was to observe changes in EEGs on learning a balanced sitting posture with/without “Relaxercise” while the objective of Experiment 2 was to study changes in EEGs periodically throughout an eye movement lesson. As a result of EEGs measurement and Emotion Spectrum Analysis of Experiment 1, four (4) out of ten (10) subjects showed the level of joy was the highest at instructed sitting after “Relaxercise.” The results of photo and video analysis in Experiment 2 showed that ten (10) out of thirteen (13) subjects improved sitting, standing, and walking postures after the lesson.
Ergonomics in Home Care
Authors: Proteau Rose-Ange
Published: January 2012

Home care workers are generally alone when they assist patients. They are often forced to work in uncomfortable and unsafe positions, because bathtubs and beds are too low. On average, work accidents involving workers in the home are more serious than those in institutions. In Quebec, (province in Eastern Canada), training and prevention programs have been implemented to improve these difficult working conditions in the past ten years.
Effect of the Number of Two-Wheeled Containers at a Gathering Point on Energetic Workload and Work Efficiency
Authors: Kuijer P. Paul F.M. , Frings-Dresen Monique H.W. , van der Beek Allard J. , van Dieën Jaap H. , Visser Bart
Published: January 2012

The effect of the number of two-wheeled containers at a gathering point on the energetic workload and the work efficiency in refuse collecting was studied. The results showed that the size of the gathering point had no effect on the energetic workload. However, the size of the gathering point had an effect on the work efficiency. This study shows that an increase in work efficiency does not directly imply an increase in workload.
Change Management as Risk Factor?
Authors: Grote Gudela , Künzler Cuno
Published: January 2012

Organizational changes that apparently are unrelated to risk and safety management may in fact be very relevant to the level of process and work safety, e.g. based on “objective” parameters like work load and “subjective” parameters like motivation. Therefore, assessments of an organization's risk quality should take into account the change management during major organizational changes. To help such assessments especially in insurance audits, three change scenarios were chosen (downsizing, mergers&aquisitions, business process reengineering) and parameters describing effective change management for these scenarios selected. The parameters and their rationale as well as the procedure for their use during audits are presented.
Toward Online Virtual Safety Training in the Manufacturing and Service Industries
Authors: Duffy Vincent G.
Published: January 2012

This paper describes the first in a series of studies aimed at understanding risk perception and decision-making in virtual environments. A test is done to determine if virtual reality training in the optimum cutting condition will allow subjects to determine the optimum ‘safe’ cutting condition on a real machine. This would imply that sound cues in the virtual environment can help operators train to correctly perceive a hazardous condition that is different from what one would predict based on psychophysics. It is believed that a better understanding of perception in virtual environments will allow better prediction of the impact on decision-making after virtual training. This can provide a clearer justification for virtual safety training, including remote and online Internet-based systems. Potential implications of these recent studies on the service industries are discussed.
Is Proficiency Eroding among U.S. Naval Aircrews? a Quantitative Analysis Using the Human Factors Analysis and Classification System
Authors: Shappell Scott A. , Wiegmann Douglas A.
Published: January 2012

With shrinking military budgets and the inevitable drawdown after the Cold War, the potential erosion of aircrew readiness/proficiency has been a source of concern within the U.S. Department of Defense. Unfortunately, it has been difficult to quantify proficiency using traditional performance measures. However, an analytic tool, the Human Factors Analysis and Classification System (HFACS) was recently developed that has enabled those within the Department of Defense and civilian aviation communities to examine pilot proficiency using accident data. An analysis of U.S. Navy/Marine Corps Class A aviation accidents occurring between fiscal years 1991 and 1998 was conducted using HFACS to determine what, if any, trends were evident that would indicate an erosion of pilot proficiency. Notably, a steady increase in the percentage of accidents associated with skill-based errors was observed beginning in 1991. To the degree that skill-based errors reflect a lack of proficiency, they provide an objective indicator of pilot ability. Several explanations have been suggested for this apparent trend including a reduction in flight hours, changes in aircrew training, and/or pilot retention. By employing HFACS, safety professionals can gain a better understanding of previously nebulous topics such as pilot proficiency.
Data Bases with Hazardous Situations in Woodworking Machinery Design
Authors: Myrcha K. , Wrobel J. , Gierasimiuk J.
Published: January 2012

In this paper problems of engineering data bases creation for design of woodworking machines are considered. The specially organised computer aided design system is created for this purpose. Different engineering data bases are designed for this task. This system can run on the AutoCAD system and works on an IBM PC computer. MS ACCESS is applied for data bases creation. System Anthropos 5 is applied for men modelling. Some design results are presented in the paper as well.
Using Collaborative Information Technology Learning More about Saftety-Critical Events
Authors: Szameitat Steffen
Published: January 2012

Common accident and near miss analysis systems (ANMAS) often fails to transfer safety-related knowledge, which match to the demands of technicians in operating, maintaining and designing technical components in high hazard industries. This paper emphasis on problem solving processes in safety-critical event analysis teams, which are identified as key units for the transfer and storage of implicit knowledge in ANMAS. Computer-mediated communication is evaluated in terms of considered event information, the quantity of identified causal relations and learning gains through the analysis. Results indicate a acceleration in collecting information and a suppression of the learning success in computer-mediated event analysis teams. No significant differences were found between FTF and CMC were found for the conceptualization of causes and contributing factors. Results are discussed according to current issues of computer-supported ANMAS.
A Field Study on Photoluminescent Signage Used to Guide Building Occupants to Exit in Complete Darkness
Authors: Proulx Guyléne , Creak John , Kyle Brian
Published: January 2012

A field study was conducted in an office building to assess the effectiveness of photoluminescent material to facilitate occupant evacuation. The office building's four identical stairwells were set with different conditions; one had full lighting, one had reduced lighting, another one had reduced lighting with photoluminescent wayguidance signs and one had photoluminescent wayguidance signs with no other lighting output. Non-informed occupants evacuated through the 4 stairwells. Speed of movement recorded using video cameras showed a similar speed of movement when considering the different density of the 4 stairwells.
Perceived Hazardousness of Warning Messages
Authors: Chen Jessie Y. C. , Gilson Richard D. , Wang Morgan C.
Published: January 2012

Baseline rankings of warning messages according to their levels of perceived hazardousness were determined in order to study the interactions among the number, order, and criticality of warning messages in a systematic fashion. Thirty-three warning messages normally appearing on consumer products were rated and then ranked according to an odds ratio analysis. The order in which warning messages were presented was randomized to observe the effect of presentation order on hazard ratings of the messages. It was found that, for certain messages, very different hazard perceptions were observed for different survey versions, indicating an effect of order of presentation for these messages.
Evaluation of Occupational Exposure to Noise in Portuguese Industrial Companies
Authors: Barroso M.P. , Arezes P. , da Costa L. Gomes , Miguel A.S.
Published: January 2012

This study analyses the developments occurred with regard to occupational noise exposure in industrial companies, over a period of three years. Data has been gathered in a total of 121 companies, involving 1753 different workplaces from different industrial sectors. Results indicate a slight decrease on the number of operators exposed to Daily Exposure Levels above the maximum threshold set. A discussion is included on the type of measures implemented for noise control at the companies visited.
Lead Exposure Assessment in Industries of Lead Components of Small Enterprises: Study of Cases
Authors: Araujo U.C. , Mattos U.A O , Fortes J.D.N. , Nascimento A. R. , Santos L.S.C. , Moreira F.
Published: January 2012

This paper presents technical improvements, inside the manufacture, in the place of work of small enterprises. These techniques are been applied to contaminated inhabit of work in factories, battery recovery companies and lead foundry. The contamination was verified by clinical and ambient evaluation. Lead exposure investigation and contamination of workers accomplished it so as ambient contamination of surrounding areas around those enterprises. This paper was generated by a project under development in CESTEH/ENSP/ FIOCRUZ with two main objectives: a) to develop a biological indicator of effect, in order to prevent possible health damages to the workers; b) to identify low cost techniques looking for air quality improvement around works place of those enterprises.
A Computer-Based Job Analysis System Designed to be Used by Operational Personnel in Warehousing Operations
Authors: Johnson Steven L.
Published: January 2012

Many people of different background and skill sets are becoming involved with the application of occupational ergonomics. These individuals range from health care professionals with little or no interest or understanding of the operational environments to manufacturing engineers that have had no training or experience in considering the relationship between human operators and the equipment that they design. The person who has both a first-hand understanding of the task requirements and the individual operator's capabilities and limitations is the first line supervisor. The objective of the computer-based system described in this paper is to provide operational personnel with a tool that will allow them to evaluate the workplace layout, work methods, tools and equipment to improve efficiency and product quality, as well as reduce the risk of work-related disorders.
Setting Standards for Packing
Authors: Freivalds Andris , Jang Hyunkook , Kong Yongku
Published: January 2012

The retrieval, packing and shipping of products from a warehousing organization can be a complex operation with little apparent standardization. To insure cost effective and efficient operations, timely shipping, and customer satisfaction, it is important to set proper standards. Through an orderly process of breaking the jobs down into tasks, tasks into elements, time studying and rating the elements, and applying allowances, a set of standards for packing were established. In general, it was found that the operators were up to 30% underutilized, i.e. there were too many operators. This was primarily due to the skewed distribution of work, with mornings being very quiet and customer orders picking up during the afternoon. The best solution would be to utilize fewer full-time workers and bring in several part-time workers for the rush period.
The Effects of Familiarity and Risk Perception on Workplace Warning Compliance
Authors: Ortiz Julio , Resnick Marc L. , Kengskool Khokiat
Published: January 2012

Consumer products cause millions of injuries every year at a total cost of billions of dollars in medical costs, lost wages and reductions in quality of life. To prevent injuries, manufacturers often place warnings on dangerous products and materials with information about proper handling and possible injuries. In order for a warning to be effective, it must be seen, read, comprehended, and followed. A breakdown in any of these stages will hinder the warning from preventing an injury. This study is a naturalistic investigation of warning compliance behavior. It evaluates the effects of a user's perceptions of the product risk and his/her familiarity with the product and brand on the nature of his/her behavior. Products were pretested to determine the familiarity and perceived risk of the products with the general user population. This data was verified with the participants in the data collection phase of the study to insure the validity of the results. Participants' familiarity with the product and their perceptions of the product's inherent risk had a significant effect on the number of safe behaviors from the warning with which they complied. Users complied with more safe behaviors when using products that were perceived as risky compared to other products of the same class that were perceived as less risky. Similarly, users complied with more safe behaviors when using brands with which they were more familiar compared to those of the same product class with which they were less familiar.
Multi-Point Characterization of Tribometric Test Results
Authors: Marpet Mark I.
Published: January 2012

As with measurements in general, there is inherent variability in tribometric test results. This paper discusses the limitations of using single-point characterization in setting tribometric Acceptance Thresholds. A useful technique for explicitly accounting for the variability in a given tribometer/test foot/test surface combination is frequency-based characterization. This paper will discuss weaknesses of single-point characterization of tribometric results and, briefly, how to set two-point Acceptance Thresholds for slip-resistance.
Pedestrian Slipping - A Risk Assessment Based Approach
Authors: Thorpe S , Lemon P
Published: January 2012

Pedestrian slipping involves a number of factors including the nature of the floor and whether it is contaminated, the type and condition of footwear and environmental conditions as well as the physical and mental capabilities of the individual who slips. It is the interaction of all these different factors which will determine whether a slip accident is likely to occur.

This paper will develop a risk assessment based approach to slipping so as to give due regard to all the important contributory factors. Worked examples of risk assessments will be presented to demonstrate ways of assessing and controlling the slip potential of any given situation. These examples will be used to show that quick, easy and inexpensive interventions are often capable of significantly reducing the likelihood of a slipping accident.
The Effects of Surface Roughness and Contaminants on the Dynamic Friction between Porcelain Tile and Vulcanized Rubber
Authors: Chang Wen-Ruey
Published: January 2012

Surface roughness affects friction, but it is not clear which surface roughness characteristics are better correlated with friction. The dynamic friction between porcelain tiles and vulcanized rubber under four different mixtures of glycerol and water as contaminants was correlated with the surface parameters generated from the tile surfaces. The results showed that dynamic friction decreased as the glycerol content in the contaminant was increased due to the lubrication effect. The correlation coefficient between the surface roughness parameters and the measured friction was affected by the glycerol ratios. However, the skewness of surface heights ( Rsk), the arithmetical average and root mean square of surface slope (Δ a and Δ q) and the kernel roughness depth ( Rk) had the highest correlation with dynamic friction.
Some Medical Issues and Technologies for Preserving Human Performance during Long-Duration Spaceflight
Authors: Holland Dwight , Kemmerling Col Paul T.
Published: January 2012

This panel presentation will highlight several of the crucial areas that impact astronauts' ability to carry out mission tasks during long-duration spaceflight. We review some of the physiologic changes which occur during long-duration spaceflight, highlight how those changes may impact human performance, and note some of the technologies and countermeasures that will be required to combat these deleterious effects. As the missions become longer, medical and psychosocial/group dynamics issues become increasing important as potential “trouble spots” for disrupting mission operations. These important attributes that relate to human performance must be considered by mission architects, management, ground controllers and the astronauts themselves for safe, effective long-duration mission completion. An integrated systems engineering approach is urged as an important conceptual framework for addressing how to apply a wide variety of new medical, telemedicine, and informatics technologies to the various challenges that will be posed on long-duration spaceflight missions.
Evaluation of the Manual Workload in Repetetive Wrist and Finger Motions
Authors: Kwon Ochae , Eoh Hong Jun , Yun Myung Hwan , Han Sung H.
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the manual workload on repetitive wrist and finger motions. To evaluate the manual workload, angular displacement of the joint, EMG of the muscle and subjective rating were studied. A screw-driving task was used for the wrist motion experiment. A keyboard-typing task was used for the finger motion experiment. Repetition rates of 0.5, 1, 2 motions per second were used with each task. As a result, manual workload increased with increasing repetitiveness. Peak spectral magnitude and frequency components corresponded closely with joint angular displacement amplitudes and repetition rates. Results of the correlation analysis showed that there were significant correlations among EMG, frequency-weighted filtering and subjective measurement. Both EMG and frequency-weighted filtering showed consistent workload estimation with increasing task frequency. Subjective ratings showed a slight over-estimation of the workload as the task frequency is increased.
Empirical Evaluation of Models Used to Predict Torso Muscle Forces
Authors: Perez Miguel A. , Nussbaum Maury
Published: January 2012

Risk factors associated with low back pain (LBP) have been identified by previous epidemiological research. Among these factors, the type and amount of loading required by a work task exhibit a direct relationship with the occurrence of LBP. Based on these findings, biomechanists have attempted to model the behavior of the lumbar region of the spine, with the objective of determining the distribution of loads on the different tissues of the region, especially in the muscles surrounding the lumbar spine. Knowledge of the loads in these tissues would allow for subsequent contrast against estimated tissue tolerance levels. The prediction of muscle forces is of particular importance given their large estimated magnitudes and contribution to spine loads. Two different approaches have historically been taken to predict muscle forces. The first relies on electromyography (EMG), while the second attempts to predict muscle responses using mathematical models. Three such predictive models are compared here: optimization-based Sum of Cubed Intensities, Artificial Neural Networks, and Distributed Moment Histogram. These three models were adapted to run using recently published descriptions of the lower back anatomy. To evaluate their effectiveness, model predictions were compared to a database of muscle activations obtained from 14 muscles of 8 participants (4 male and 4 female) with similar height and weight. The participants resisted loads applied to their torso via a harness. Eleven different 3-dimensional static loading conditions were applied, with associated magnitudes of 50% and 90% of each participant's maximum torso strengths. Results showed the models performed poorly (average R2's on the order of 0.4), and that none of the models was clearly superior in terms of predictive ability. Interpretation of the models' output in their present state should be made cautiously when evaluating loading conditions that exceed 50% of an individual's torso strength. Discrepancies that were found between internal moments (at L3/L4) determined empirically and moments measured with a force plate suggest possible inaccuracies in model parameters including maximum muscle stress and/or anatomy.
Prediction of Low Back Pain Reporting in Industry from Estimates of Cumulative Loading on the Spine
Authors: Norman R.W. , Frazer M.B. , Wells R.P. , Neumann W.P. , McGill S.M.
Published: January 2012

Adverse effects of excessive accumulative loading on spinal structures, from either high repetition or prolonged static loading of even relatively low loads, have been known from in vitro studies for many years. However, cumulative compression and shear on low back tissues, although suspected to be risk factors for the reporting of low back pain at work, have been epidemiologically confirmed only relatively recently. Software has been developed which combines a quasi-dynamic biomechanical spine model and dose-response curves from epidemiological data to estimate a predictive index. In this paper, a method is described for estimating cumulative spinal loading and other risk factors and using the data to predict the probability of reporting low back pain in the workplace.
Under the Constraints of Societal Changes, Media, Ethics and a More Top-Down Approach: What Does Prevention Research Have to Offer the Working Environment?
Authors: André J.C.
Published: January 2012

The rapid change in the world of work requires permanent revision of research strategies in the field of occupational risk prevention. These must take the following factors into account:

- technological development and development of linked organisations, - the reinforcement of the relations between individuals and their “bodies”, - the shift from the causal to the probable not to say the possible with regard to increasingly multifactorial occupational risks, - exploration of the effects of standard deviations (and not only statistical averages) on the harmful consequences of work, - links between work and the environment.
Cognition of Hazard Levels with Safety Signs and Pictograms in Korea
Authors: Lim Hyeon K. , Kim Dong H. , Ko Byung L.
Published: January 2012

In Korea, most pictograms and sign words were mainly adopted from foreign countries, so that it is now in doubt whether they are in accordance with cognitive characteristics of the Korean people who communicate in their own unique language, Han-Geul. Thus, this research was aimed to investigate cognitive usability of foreign safety signs and pictograms now being used in Korea. For that purpose, a set of safety signs was randomly presented to the Korean people, and their cognition of hazard levels were rated by virtue of subjective scales and selective alternatives. In addition, safety sign words written in various colors were shown to the subjects, and their meanings as well as preference were asked.

According to the results, correct cognition rates to most pictograms were lower than the acceptance criterion of ISO, 66%. Out of the illustrated pictograms, only one sign standing for ‘No-Smoking’ was acceptable. In the meanwhile, the higher the hazard level, the lower subjects' cognition of the contingency. Besides, results of the Quantification Method showed that Koreans associated ‘Danger’ with colors of Red, Orange, or Yellow subsequently, whereas ‘Warning’ with Red or Purple.

Consequently, it is concluded that safety sign words and pictograms now being used in Korea fail to transmit hazard levels to the Korean people appropriately, and that it is quite urgent to develop a brand new set of safety sign words and pictograms based upon emotional characteristics of the Korean people, in Korea.
On Site Analysis of the Muscular Load during Three Car Assembly Tasks
Authors: Seghers J. , Ponnet H. , Spaepen A. , Moons K.
Published: January 2012

This study describes the on site analysis of the muscular load during car assembly operations which involve opening or closing the bonnet. Car assembly involves 21 of these operations but three were selected as representative for analysis of muscular load of the lower back and shoulder muscles. Each cycle of a task lasted about 50 seconds, but was subdivided into a number of subtasks. Subjects were asked to report the most annoying and most strenuous subtasks.

The first task was mounting the support bar for the bonnet of the car, and was subdivided into eight smaller operations. The second task was mounting the windscreen wipers and was divided into 6 subtasks. The third task, mainly involving adjusting the lights, was divided into five parts.

Two subjective screening methods (NIOSH 1991, RULA) and two objective methods (EMG processing and video digitalisation) were used for data analysis. Due to the limitations of the NIOSH 1991 equation in these situations, we determined a Recommended Weight Limit (RWL) of 12 kg. Although the weight of the bonnet did not exceed the RWL, varying between 10.5 and 11.5 kg depending on the quantity of noise-insulation material, this did not guarantee acceptable postures or movements.

The results from RULA indicated that work postures had a harmful effect on the musculoskeletal system. Electromyographic registrations indicated that the shoulder muscles (M. Trapezius and M. Deltoideus) work more dynamically relative to the back muscles (Erector Spinae bilaterally). There were high dynamic peak values for Deltoideus and Trapezius muscles, but long periods of static effort for the low back musculature. Both types of muscle activity are damaging for the musculoskeletal system, and this was confirmed by employees' subjective complaints regarding the back and shoulders.

There were clear differences between the three tasks analysed. Peak values for the first task (mounting the support bar for the bonnet) varied between 60 and 85% of the MVC bilaterally for the shoulder muscles. A static load of 15 to 40% MVC was exerted on the low back musculature. For assembly of the windscreen wipers, effort of the shoulder musculature was relatively low (50% MVC) but there were peaks in activity for the Erector Spinae muscles (80–90% MVC). There were relatively few peak efforts while opening the bonnet during adjustment of the lights in the third task, with some above 70% MVC in the back muscles.

For each of the tasks analysed, recommendations were given to the company to reduce the risks of back and shoulder complaints, addressing the arrangement of the work area and how the tasks are carried out. We will monitor the applications of our recommendations in future research.
Physiological Effects of Rehabilitative Trunk Muscle Training with Focus on Low Back Trouble Prevention
Authors: JØrgensen Kurt
Published: January 2012

The aim of the paper is to show the physiological effects and effects on selected health variables caused by work site trunk muscle training in vocational groups with a large work related mechanical exposure of the back. A total of 10 male hospitalporters and 23 female nurse assistents and home helpers paticipated bi-weekly - one hour per session - in a 12 weeks submaximal(50–55% MVC) muscle training programme. The main findings was that the endurance capacity of the trunk extensor muscles increased by 50%, while their strength only increased marginally Moreover was the pain level of the lumbar back reduced significantly. Minimizing muscle fatigue of the paravertebral muscles is probably one relevant way to to reduce the magnitude of occupational elated low back problems. This goal can be obtained by using two different but equal important concepts: Ergonomic (including work organization) changes and maintenance of the strength and endurance of the trunk muscles of the working force.
Changes in Quality of Life and Health following Preventive and Rehabilitation Physical Training
Authors: Grunnet Kai
Published: January 2012

The aim of the project was to improve shoulder-neck-back health, give an understanding for coping with pain and keep the participants in the workforce.

126 participants followed an intervention (physical training and relaxation) 2 hours twice weekly for 3 month. Before and after the training period a questionnaire was filled in with questions of among other life style, self-rated health and symptoms from muscles and joints.

The main results were a drop in pain within the last week in 8 of out of 9 regions of the body, decrease in reports of sickness and improvement in self-rated health after the intervention as well as self-rated health compared to last year.
Surface Pressure in the Hand When Holding a Drilling-Machine under Different Drilling Conditions
Authors: Björing Gunnar , Johansson Lena , Hägg Göran M
Published: January 2012

Six male and six female subjects performed simulated drilling tasks using an ordinary impact drilling-machine. Meanwhile the pressure on the hand was measured in 16 points. The influence on the pressure distribution and the total pressure level from changes in feed force, working direction, vibration level, balance, number of handles, gloves, handle material and handle width, was studied. The results showed that the pressure was in all situations highest on the web between the index finger and the thumb. The pressure on this part of the hand increased with increasing feed force and also with increasing handle size. The total pressure level increased, as expected, with increasing feed force compared with the reference sessions. Using a supporting handle, gloves or softer handle material decreased the total pressure level. Working direction, vibrations, balance and handle width, however, did not influence the total pressure level.
Development of a Suitability Evaluation Method for a Comfortable Seat
Authors: Kim Jin Ho , Park Soo Chan , Shin Mi Kyung , Choi Kyung Joo
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study was to develop systematic methods for evaluating the suitability of a seat and building an empirical model for predicting the suitability of a seat. We uncovered six dominant suitability dimensions for the design of a comfortable seat that is related to the physical dimension of a body. Here, six suitability dimensions were identified as the dimensions representing the human sensitivity and psychological feeling on comfortable seats. Also, 43 human-interface elements such as seat height, seat surface etc. were established for evaluating seat comfort. In this study 63 subjects participated in evaluating six suitability dimensions for 52 different seats. The model for evaluating suitability was also developed.
Ergonomization of Stations of Work of CAD in the Section of Modeling of the Industry Footwears
Authors: Schiavini Reginaldo
Published: January 2012

The main objective of this research is to study the ergonomic factors which can provide a better comfort to the CAD shoe modeling operator and, consequently, improve quality and productivity of the system as a whole. Firstly, the workstations were observed in order to obtain a ergonomic diagnosis of the tasks performed. This study began with the systemic approach in order to understand the ergonomic aspects of the human-task-machine system on the CAD sections on teaching institutes related to the leather and shoes industries in Vale dos Sinos, in Novo Hamburgo. Asystematic and systematic observations of the different tasks involved on the process followed. Half structured and structured interviews with CAD operators and their supervisors were also held. What we can conclude is that there is the necessity of an ergonomic intervention on these workstations due to manipulation, postural and environmental problems.
Change and Learning Processes When Implementing Total Productive Maintenance – A Case Study in the Food Processing Industry
Authors: Kilenstam Joakim , Odenrick Per
Published: January 2012

Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) is a manufacturing strategy that aims to eliminate equipment loss in the manufacturing process. Our case study examines a food processing company in Sweden where implementation of TPM was begun but has not gone as smoothly as expected. The principal problem appears to have been around a resistance to change among the personnel due to a variety of unknown factors. The aim of our study was to identify the causes of the resistance and to offer recommendations on how to accelerate the implementation of TPM. The research used qualitative interviews with a large cross section of employees within the organization. One of the principal conclusions of the research is that successful implementation of TPM requires support from senior management within the organization, and should involve the people who will be affected by TPM in its planning and implementation.
The Ergonomic Action at a Chemical Industry Introduction New Technologies
Authors: Santos Paulo José Pereira dos , Garcia Katia Cristina , Dockhorn Nestor de Carvalho , Duarte Francisco
Published: January 2012

This poster shortly shows the involvement of an ergonomics team in a technological modernization project, in a chemical plant in Brazil. Based on Ergonomic Work Analysis (EWA) an attempt was made to point out human aspects to be taken into the goal of reducing the impact caused by technological modernization on the work activity and contributing to better project management.
Sitting and Low Back Pain Sitting with Rotary Continuous Passive Motion a New Seating Concept
Authors: van Deursen Leo L.J.M. , van Deursen Dirk L. , Patijn Jaap
Published: January 2012

A static spinal load, such as during prolonged periods of sitting, seems to be a provocative factor in the development of Low Back Pain (LBP). Patients with LBP usually experience increasing pain during sitting. To investigate the negative influence of this static component during sitting we decided to examine the influence of dynamic rotary stimuli on patients during sitting. Three different investigations done with the minor stimulation of 1.2-degree cyclic rotation are described here.

I. 120 a-selective LBP-patients were asked to sit on an experimental chair for an unbroken period of one hour. They were randomly divided into two groups. One group was subjected to dynamic stimuli which were generated by alternating rotations in the horizontal plane of the seat of the chair, with the back and arm rests in fixed position. Two different frequencies of rotation were applied to subgroups. The effect on low back pain was measured by an open visual analogous scale (VAS). There was a significant difference on pain experience in these two groups. Rotary dynamic stimuli especially of the lower frequency, reduced pain in prolonged sitting.

II. In a second investigation 60 a-selective LBP-patients were tested in the same way on two other frequencies. In this investigation the results of 21 patients, who were in the control group of the first trial, proved very interesting. There was a significant improvement and none of these patients had a higher individual score than in the previous test.

III. In a third investigation, the time-related response of swelling in the lower extremities was investigated in the normal static sitting condition during three hours and in sitting with continuous low-frequent rotary movements. A significant difference was found for lower leg swelling between the static and dynamic situation.

The authors concluded that rotary stimuli, especially at the lower frequency, reduce the development of pain in prolonged sitting. Dynamic sitting also results in a better blood circulation of the lower extremities. The use of dynamic stimuli could produce a new seating concept.
CTDs and Ergonomics in Ohio
Authors: Hamrick Christopher A.
Published: January 2012

The Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation (BWC) provides insurance to about two-thirds of Ohio's workforce. At $17.7 billion, Ohio's workers' compensation system has the largest exclusive state fund in the nation and is the second largest underwriter of workers' compensation insurance in the country. The purpose of this paper is to 1) describe the nature and costs of cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs) in Ohio and to 2) discuss BWC's programmatic efforts to reduce the incidence and severity of the State's CTDs.
Multimedia Video-Based Data Acquisition and Analysis Applications for Ergonomics Research
Authors: Yen Thomas Y. , Radwin Robert G.
Published: January 2012

Ergonomics field studies often require recording biomechanical data corresponding to kinematic, kinetic, or other physiologic records in relation to arbitrary events and human activities. These events are usually identified off-line from video recordings made of the action. An example is recording movements of an automobile assembly operator (See Figure 1) as the operator performs the various tasks of the job. Only by reviewing video records frame-by-frame, can the exact actions made by the operator at any point in time be identified. The biomechanics data corresponding with these actions can be obtained if the data is first synchronized with the video recordings. Multimedia video based data acquisition systems enable synchronization of the video and data records so that an analyst can randomly and interactively access sampled data corresponding to arbitrary events. Multimedia video-based systems are now available and are being used in a variety of ergonomics research applications for analyzing activities and conducting tasks analyses, quantifying temporal aspects of the task, and for synchronization of task elements with sampled data records. Some of these systems not only allow the analyst to visualize data associated with a specific video frame or event, but also to view the specific video frame that corresponds to a particular aspect of the data waveform. This symposium will present a variety of biomechanical and ergonomics research that uses multimedia video task analysis systems.
Macular Degeneration and Visual Search: What We Can Learn from Eye Movement Analysis
Authors: Jacko Julie A. , Barreto Armando B. , Chu Josey Y. M. , Scott Ingrid U. , Rosa Robert H. , Pappas Charles C.
Published: January 2012

Traditional approaches to the evaluation of a computer interface typically uses methods such as cognitive walk through, GOMs, task analysis, user's performance and self-report. These are effective approaches; however, they are more subjective than objective. Eye-movement analysis provides a unique and useful strategy for evaluating a computer interface. Additionally, it allows a quantitative approach to understand how users interact with the computer. In this paper, background color, icon size and number of icon presentation were tested on participants with Age-related Macular Degeneration. The experimental design is a matching to sample task where participants were presented with a sample icon and the task is to match the sample icon to a set of icons. Eye-movement data were recorded through video output and digitized for analysis. Results of the study showed that icon size and the number of icon presentation have a significant effect on the time participants took to search and identify the target icon.
Multimedia Video-Based Data Acquisition and Analysis Applications for Ergonomics Research
Authors: McGlothlin James D. , Vosicky John J. , Protopapas Eleni A.
Published: January 2012

Control of occupational exposures to hazardous chemical and physical agents costs industry more than 150 billion dollars per year. Development of a method to identify and control hazardous agents is a high priority for industry. The application of this method will save industry millions of dollars by pinpointing sources of exposure and enable them to invest in more cost/effective engineering and ergonomic solutions. The use of real-time instruments to measure and control hazardous agents is not new. However, the application of ergonomic principles and videographic techniques to link hazardous exposures to employee job functions is new. Such methods are particularly useful when the hazardous agents are highly toxic, have low regulatory limits (i.e., permissible exposure limits), and where changes in work organization and employee work practices can significantly increase or decrease exposure to such agents. This paper discusses how a system developed at Purdue University uses real-time instruments combined with videography to evaluate and control hazardous chemical and physical agents in the occupational environment.
A Participatory and Integrative Approach to Increase Productivity and Comfort in Assembly
Authors: de Looze Michiel , van Rhijn Gu , Tuinzaad Bert , van Deursen Jeroen
Published: January 2012

Manufacturers of manually assembled products are more and more forced to improve the flow of assembly orders together with a more efficient employment, in order to meet increasing demands on short delivery times, high product variety, good quality and low manufacturing costs. At the same time, the human factor is increasingly important, for a well-motivated work force is needed more than ever. To improve assembly processes, an approach was developed and applied in various assembly companies. Goals of this approach are both a lead time reduction and an improvement of the assembly tasks in an ergonomic sense. Main elements of the approach are the active participation of the companies, the integration of two basic disciplines: assembly engineering and ergonomics, and its stepwise nature. The initial steps of the approach include the analysis of the assembly process by setting up an ‘assembly process scheme’, and the analysis of bottlenecks with regard to the flow of orders and ergonomics. Latter steps include the selection of improving measures, the implementation of these measures and the evaluation of the effects. This paper describes this approach and its application in two assembly companies: one producing relatively small products (magnetic stop valves) and the other making relatively large products (office furniture). In both companies the approach lead to a new design of the assembly process, a new factory lay-out including new work places, and another involvement of people in the assembling process.
The Identification, Assessment and Impact of ‘Good Ergonomics Practices’ for Casual Apparel Manufacturing within Levi Strauss Europe, Middle East and Africa
Authors: Nicholson A.S. , McNeice B.
Published: January 2012

It has been recognised by ergonomists for some time that there are a number of risk reduction measures and controls that can be used to control the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (Buckle, P, 1988; Putz-Anderson, V, 1988. Their introduction into a casual apparel manufacturing environment where production is driven by incentive working presents particular challenges. The identification and promulgation of good practices is a key aspect being used in driving an ergonomics strategy in Levi Strauss Europe, Middle East and Africa (LSEMA) with the aim of reducing and controlling musculoskeletal risk.
Relationships between Cycle Time and Mechanical Exposure within and between Individuals in Repetitive Assembly Work
Authors: Möller Therése , Mathiassen Svend Erik , Franzon Helena , Kihlberg Steve
Published: January 2012

Cycle time is an important parameter for both the production engineer and the ergonomist. This study focused the relationships between cycle time and another ergonomic parameter, exposure level. Mechanical exposure was assessed with EMG and inclinometry on five operators at three workstations in an assembly plant. Average cycle time and exposure level did not differ between workstations. Significant relationships between cycle time and exposure level were found in some cases at an individual level. Large between operator variability was found for both exposure levels and cycle time while the within operator variability was smaller, even across stations. This indicates that the operators used individual working methods.
Occupational Exposure to Whole-Body Vibration among Bus Drivers
Authors: Melo Rui Bettencourt , Miguel Alberto Sérgio
Published: January 2012

An ergonomic analysis aiming at the identification of the main reasons for urban bus drivers' early retirement included the characterisation of the vibrations transmitted through their seat. The assessment was accomplished in terms of vibration magnitude, dominating frequencies and the most risky stimuli's direction. Due to the importance of vehicle-terrain interactions on the vibration transmission process, the road surface role was also investigated. This preliminary study involved a single brand of buses and is being extended to the entire bus fleet.

The first results revealed vertical solicitations to be the most intense, reaching acceleration values of 0.5 m s-2, and significant frequencies were located below 16 Hz, where the human's vulnerability to vibrations is high.

Apparently, horizontal vibrations may be neglected in comparison to the vertical ones and the seat pan is the principal vibration-transferring surface. The driving speed seems to have taken advantage over the road's roughness on the vibration level control.