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Occupational Ergonomics: Design, Development, and Usability Evaluation of Ergonomic Products for Application in Various Industries

A special issue of International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (ISSN 1660-4601). This special issue belongs to the section "Occupational Safety and Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (1 November 2022) | Viewed by 50311

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Yong-Ku Kong

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Industrial Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, South Korea
Interests: WMSD analysis; ergonomic designs; biomechanical hand/finger modeling; motion and time study
Dr. Jay Kim

E-Mail Website
Assistant Guest Editor
Environmental and Occupational Health Program, College of Public Health and Human Sciences,Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, Oregon, USA
Interests: occupational ergonomics; biomechanics
Dr. Jaejin Hwang

E-Mail Website
Assistant Guest Editor
Department of Industrial and Systems, College of Engineering, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, Illinois, IL 60115-2828, USA
Interests: healthcare ergonomics; office ergonomics; occupational biomechanics; neuroergonomics; learning science
Prof. Dr. Sangeun Jin

E-Mail Website
Assistant Guest Editor
Department of Industrial Engineering, College of Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, South Korea
Interests: biomechanics and measurement of workload; ergonomic product design and evaluation; industrial safety engineering and management

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

It is our pleasure to announce the launch of a new Special Issue on “Occupational Ergonomics: Design, Development, and Usability Evaluation of Ergonomic Products for Application in Various Industries” in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (IJERPH).

As many researchers recognize, work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) have become a significant issue due to increased social overall interests in the safety and health of working places at various industrial sites and changes in working consciousness.

In-depth understanding and study of physical/cognitive ergonomics and their interactions with industrial safety and health would be needed to improve the safety and convenience of various workers and users using different types of products, tools, devices, and systems in the industrial fields.

To reach this goal, the research scope in this Special Issue is the study of the development and usability of “wearable robots”, “medical appliances”, and “rehabilitation aids” that have recently been actively researched around the world to prevent musculoskeletal diseases in industrial sites. In addition, other important ergonomic fields such as “aging ergonomics”, “safety and health”, “physical ergonomics”, and “human–machine interaction (HMI)” are also covered in this Special Issue.

Of course, we would like to say that we are not limited to the keywords listed in the scope of this Special Issue but are fully open to various research topics related to occupational ergonomics, safety, and health.

Prof. Yong-Ku Kong
Dr. Jay Kim
Dr. Jaejin Hwang
Prof. Sangeun Jin
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2500 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Occupational ergonomics
  • Exoskeleton
  • Industrial wearable robot
  • Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs)
  • Aging study
  • Safety and health
  • Physical ergonomics
  • Medical appliances
  • Rehabilitation aids
  • Human–machine interaction

Published Papers (19 papers)

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13 pages, 2622 KiB  
Article
3D Hand Scanning Methodology for Determining Protective Glove Dimensional Allowances
by Joanna Szkudlarek, Bartłomiej Zagrodny, Sandra Zarychta and Xiaoxue Zhao
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(3), 2645; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph20032645 - 01 Feb 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1717
Abstract
There are two types of dimensional allowance (inner and external) related to two distinct areas of occupational health and safety: those being a measure of fit of personal protective equipment (PPE) and those determining the safe and comfortable human interaction with tools and [...] Read more.
There are two types of dimensional allowance (inner and external) related to two distinct areas of occupational health and safety: those being a measure of fit of personal protective equipment (PPE) and those determining the safe and comfortable human interaction with tools and machines, e.g., the latter ones result from wearing PPE increasing the dimensions of the human body and generating limitations in the work environment. In this paper, they are taken to mean the difference between the dimensions of a bare and gloved hand (including glove construction and materials). Dimensional allowances are important in designing the work environment, e.g., machine control panels and tools. The absolute and relative maximum values of dimensional allowances determined in this study for a hand in a firefighter’s protective glove for the main anthropometric data are: 16.90 mm (5.90%) for length, 12.00 mm (13.77%) for width, and 15.70 mm (7.96%) for circumference. The obtained results are useful for designers, and especially for designing keys on control panels and LCD touch displays and monitors integrated with machines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Ergonomics: Design, Development, and Usability Evaluation of Ergonomic Products for Application in Various Industries)
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17 pages, 3871 KiB  
Article
Comparison of the Physical Care Burden on Formal Caregivers between Manual Human Care Using a Paper Diaper and Robot-Aided Care in Excretion Care
by Jeong-Bae Ko, Yong-Ku Kong, Kyeong-Hee Choi, Chang-Ki Lee, Hyun-Ji Keum, Jae-Soo Hong and Byeong-Hee Won
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(2), 1281; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph20021281 - 10 Jan 2023
Viewed by 1649
Abstract
Although the older population has been rapidly growing, the availability of formal caregivers remains limited. Assistance provided by care robots has helped lower this burden; however, whether using a care robot while providing excretion care (EC) is quantitatively increasing or decreasing caregivers’ physical [...] Read more.
Although the older population has been rapidly growing, the availability of formal caregivers remains limited. Assistance provided by care robots has helped lower this burden; however, whether using a care robot while providing excretion care (EC) is quantitatively increasing or decreasing caregivers’ physical care burden has not been extensively studied. This study aimed to quantitatively compare the physical burden experienced by caregivers while providing manual excretion care (MC) using a paper diaper versus robot-aided care (RC). Ten formal caregivers voluntarily participated in the experiment. MC and RC tasks were structuralized according to phases and classified by characteristics. The experiment was conducted in a smart care space. The physical load of formal caregivers was estimated by muscular activity and subjective rating of perceived physical discomfort. The results demonstrated that although the physical load on the lower back and upper extremities during the preparation and post-care phases were greater in RC than MC, RC markedly alleviated caregivers’ physical load when performing front tasks. In the preparation-care phases, the physical loads on the lower back and upper extremities were approximately 40.2 and 39.6% higher in the case of RC than MC, respectively. Similar to the preparation-care phases, the physical loads on the lower back and upper extremities during post-care phases were approximately 39.5 and 61.7% greater in the case of RC than MC, respectively. On the other hand, in the front-care phases, the physical loads on the lower back and upper extremities were approximately 25.6 and 34.9% lower in the case of RC than MC, respectively. These findings can quantitatively explain the effectiveness and features of a care robot to stakeholders and provide foundational research data for the development of EC robots. This study emphasizes the implementation and promotion of the dissemination, popularization, and development of care robots to fulfill formal caregiving needs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Ergonomics: Design, Development, and Usability Evaluation of Ergonomic Products for Application in Various Industries)
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17 pages, 4646 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of the Efficacy of a Lift-Assist Device Regarding Caregiver Posture and Muscle Load for Transferring Tasks
by Yong-Ku Kong, Kyeong-Hee Choi, Sang-Soo Park, Jin-Woo Shim and Hyun-Ho Shim
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(2), 1174; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph20021174 - 09 Jan 2023
Viewed by 1349
Abstract
The aim of this study was to confirm the effect of a lift-assist device when performing a patient-lifting task. Ten working caregivers participated in this experiment, and lifting patients from bed to wheelchair (B2C) and wheelchair to bed (C2B) was performed for manual [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to confirm the effect of a lift-assist device when performing a patient-lifting task. Ten working caregivers participated in this experiment, and lifting patients from bed to wheelchair (B2C) and wheelchair to bed (C2B) was performed for manual care (MC) and lift-assist device (robot) care (RC). EMG sensors and IMU motion sensors were attached as indicators of the assistive device’s effectiveness. EMG was attached to the right side of eight muscles (UT, MD, TB, BB, ES, RF, VA, and TA), and flexion/extension angles of the neck, shoulder, back, and knee were collected using motion sensors. As a result of the analysis, both B2C and C2B showed higher muscle activities in MC than RC. When using a lift-assist device to lift patients, the RC method showed reductions in muscle activities compared to MC. As a result of the work-posture analysis, both the task type and the task phase exhibited pronounced reductions in shoulder, back, and knee ROM (range of motion) compared to those of MC. Therefore, based on the findings of this study, a lift-assist device is recommended for reducing the physical workloads of caregivers while performing patient-lifting tasks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Ergonomics: Design, Development, and Usability Evaluation of Ergonomic Products for Application in Various Industries)
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12 pages, 3487 KiB  
Article
Study of Anthropometry, Range of Motion, and Muscle Strength of Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury or Amputation for the Design of a Driver’s Seat in Large Agricultural Equipment
by Yeongjeong Park, Soyoung Yoo, Hyunjoong Kim, Jungkab Choi, Byungchang Son and Juhye Yook
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(23), 16025; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph192316025 - 30 Nov 2022
Viewed by 1035
Abstract
This study aims to check and compare the anthropometry, range of motion, and upper limb muscle strength of individuals with spinal cord injury or amputation in order to design a driver’s seat in a large farming machine for them to operate. We analyzed [...] Read more.
This study aims to check and compare the anthropometry, range of motion, and upper limb muscle strength of individuals with spinal cord injury or amputation in order to design a driver’s seat in a large farming machine for them to operate. We analyzed previous studies and derived 24 measurement items essential for designing the driver’s seat. For data collection, we recruited 78 people with spinal cord injury and 46 people with amputation. The collected data were classified into 5th, 25th, 50th, 75th, and 95th percentile groups by disability type and gender, before conducting a comparative analysis. For an in-depth analysis, we performed an independent t-test on the samples to compare the individuals with spinal cord injury and the individuals with amputation in terms of disability type and gender. The results showed statistical differences as follows. In the same disability category, male subjects surpassed female subjects. In the same gender category, individuals with amputation surpassed individuals with spinal cord injury. Based on this study’s data and analysis, large farming machines can be designed by reflecting the characteristics of a wide variety of disability types. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Ergonomics: Design, Development, and Usability Evaluation of Ergonomic Products for Application in Various Industries)
22 pages, 6068 KiB  
Article
Model-Based Biomechanical Exoskeleton Concept Optimization for a Representative Lifting Task in Logistics
by Jonas Schiebl, Mark Tröster, Wiem Idoudi, Elena Gneiting, Leon Spies, Christophe Maufroy, Urs Schneider and Thomas Bauernhansl
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(23), 15533; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph192315533 - 23 Nov 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2832
Abstract
Occupational exoskeletons are a promising solution to prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). However, there are no established systems that support heavy lifting to shoulder height. Thus, this work presents a model-based analysis of heavy lifting activities and subsequent exoskeleton concept optimization. Six motion [...] Read more.
Occupational exoskeletons are a promising solution to prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). However, there are no established systems that support heavy lifting to shoulder height. Thus, this work presents a model-based analysis of heavy lifting activities and subsequent exoskeleton concept optimization. Six motion sequences were captured in the laboratory for three subjects and analyzed in multibody simulations with respect to muscle activities (MAs) and joint forces (JFs). The most strenuous sequence was selected and utilized in further simulations of a human model connected to 32 exoskeleton concept variants. Six simulated concepts were compared concerning occurring JFs and MAs as well as interaction loads in the exoskeleton arm interfaces. Symmetric uplifting of a 21 kg box from hip to shoulder height was identified as the most strenuous motion sequence with highly loaded arms, shoulders, and back. Six concept variants reduced mean JFs (spine: >70%, glenohumeral joint: >69%) and MAs (back: >63%, shoulder: >59% in five concepts). Parasitic loads in the arm bracing varied strongly among variants. An exoskeleton design was identified that effectively supports heavy lifting, combining high musculoskeletal relief and low parasitic loads. The applied workflow can help developers in the optimization of exoskeletons. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Ergonomics: Design, Development, and Usability Evaluation of Ergonomic Products for Application in Various Industries)
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20 pages, 3859 KiB  
Article
Development of a New Procedure for Evaluating Working Postures: An Application in a Manufacturing Company
by Davide Gattamelata and Mario Fargnoli
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(22), 15423; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph192215423 - 21 Nov 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2163
Abstract
Musculoskeletal diseases represent a constant phenomenon in occupational health and safety (OHS) despite the large effort at governmental and technical levels. In the industrial context, numerous studies have dealt with the evaluation of the physical demand of workers. Moreover, numerous studies have investigated [...] Read more.
Musculoskeletal diseases represent a constant phenomenon in occupational health and safety (OHS) despite the large effort at governmental and technical levels. In the industrial context, numerous studies have dealt with the evaluation of the physical demand of workers. Moreover, numerous studies have investigated the problem, providing tools for ergonomics analysis. However, practical approaches aimed at integrating ergonomics issues in risk assessment activities are still scarce. To reduce such a gap, the current study proposes a procedure for the evaluation of the static working postures of workers to be included in the risk assessment activities. Such an approach is based on the ISO 11226 standard, providing a practical checklist that can be used both at the workstation’s design stage and during risk assessment activities. Its effectiveness was verified through a case study at a manufacturing company. The results achieved showed that as well as the non-conformity of the workstations’ design, the lack of training of the operators on how to maintain a neutral posture while working can also lead to awkward postures of the trunk and head. Additionally, the proposed methodology allowed us to verify the correctness of each workstation based on the physical characteristics of the workers, providing a useful guideline for the company managers on how to properly assign working tasks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Ergonomics: Design, Development, and Usability Evaluation of Ergonomic Products for Application in Various Industries)
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18 pages, 26818 KiB  
Article
Analysis of the Reduction of Ergonomic Risks through the Implementation of an Automatic Tape Packaging Machine
by Ruan C. M. Teixeira, Walter P. S. Guimarães, Josiel G. Ribeiro, Rubens A. Fernandes, Lennon B. F. Nascimento, Israel G. Torné, Fábio S. Cardoso and Gabriella R. Monteiro
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(22), 15193; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph192215193 - 17 Nov 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2095
Abstract
Many industrial sectors still lack automation resources to optimize their production processes, aiming to make manufacturing leaner and offer better working conditions to operators. Without these improvements, workers can suffer physical and even psychological damage from the ergonomic risks of the activities performed. [...] Read more.
Many industrial sectors still lack automation resources to optimize their production processes, aiming to make manufacturing leaner and offer better working conditions to operators. Without these improvements, workers can suffer physical and even psychological damage from the ergonomic risks of the activities performed. Thus, the aim of this paper is to present the ergonomic evaluation of packaging tapes workstation before and after the implementation of an automatic packaging machine, called Guzzetti. In the Guzzetti context, the paper shows the implementation of an electrical system based on controlling a mechanical device powered by servomotors and controlled by a PLC is necessary. For ergonomic evaluation, the paper presents the application of three methods: Suzanne Rodger, Strain Index, called Moore and Garg and REBA (Rapid Entire Body Assessment). With the results collection, was possible to obtain improvements in ergonomic risks that changed from the intermediate level to low level in all methods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Ergonomics: Design, Development, and Usability Evaluation of Ergonomic Products for Application in Various Industries)
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25 pages, 3382 KiB  
Article
Effects of a Passive Back-Support Exoskeleton on Knee Joint Loading during Simulated Static Sorting and Dynamic Lifting Tasks
by Mona Bär, Tessy Luger, Robert Seibt, Julia Gabriel, Monika A. Rieger and Benjamin Steinhilber
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 9965; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph19169965 - 12 Aug 2022
Viewed by 1842
Abstract
Due to the load shifting mechanism of many back-support exoskeletons (BSEs), this study evaluated possible side effects of using a BSE on knee joint loading. Twenty-nine subjects (25.9 (±4.4) years, 179.0 (±6.5) cm; 73.6 (±9.4) kg) performed simulated static sorting and dynamic lifting [...] Read more.
Due to the load shifting mechanism of many back-support exoskeletons (BSEs), this study evaluated possible side effects of using a BSE on knee joint loading. Twenty-nine subjects (25.9 (±4.4) years, 179.0 (±6.5) cm; 73.6 (±9.4) kg) performed simulated static sorting and dynamic lifting tasks, including stoop and squat styles and different trunk rotation postures. Ground reaction force, body posture and the force between the chest and the BSE’s contact interface were recorded using a force plate, two-dimensional gravimetric position sensors, and a built-in force sensor of the BSE, respectively. Using these parameters and the subject’s anthropometry, median and 90th percentile horizontal (HOR50, HOR90) and vertical (VERT50, VERT90) tibiofemoral forces were calculated via a self-developed inverse quasi-static biomechanical model. BSE use had a variable effect on HOR50 dependent on the working task and body posture. Generally, VERT50 increased without significant interaction effects with posture or task. HOR90 and VERT90 were not affected by using the BSE. In conclusion, utilizing the investigated exoskeleton is likely to induce side effects in terms of changed knee joint loading. This may depend on the applied working task and the user’s body posture. The role of these changes in the context of a negative contribution to work-related cumulative knee exposures should be addressed by future research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Ergonomics: Design, Development, and Usability Evaluation of Ergonomic Products for Application in Various Industries)
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19 pages, 21780 KiB  
Article
A Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs) Risk-Assessment System Using a Single-View Pose Estimation Model
by Young-Jin Kwon, Do-Hyun Kim, Byung-Chang Son, Kyoung-Ho Choi, Sungbok Kwak and Taehong Kim
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 9803; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph19169803 - 09 Aug 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2374
Abstract
Musculoskeletal disorders are an unavoidable occupational health problem. In particular, workers who perform repetitive tasks onsite in the manufacturing industry suffer from musculoskeletal problems. In this paper, we propose a system that evaluates the posture of workers in the manufacturing industry with single-view [...] Read more.
Musculoskeletal disorders are an unavoidable occupational health problem. In particular, workers who perform repetitive tasks onsite in the manufacturing industry suffer from musculoskeletal problems. In this paper, we propose a system that evaluates the posture of workers in the manufacturing industry with single-view 3D human pose-estimation that can estimate the posture in 3D using an RGB camera that can easily acquire the posture of a worker in a complex workplace. The proposed system builds a Duckyang-Auto Worker Health Safety Environment (DyWHSE), a manufacturing-industry-specific dataset, to estimate the wrist pose evaluated by the Rapid Limb Upper Assessment (RULA). Additionally, we evaluate the quality of the built DyWHSE dataset using the Human3.6M dataset, and the applicability of the proposed system is verified by comparing it with the evaluation results of the experts. The proposed system provides quantitative assessment guidance for working posture risk assessment, assisting the continuous posture assessment of workers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Ergonomics: Design, Development, and Usability Evaluation of Ergonomic Products for Application in Various Industries)
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16 pages, 5553 KiB  
Article
Biomechanical Analysis of Stoop and Free-Style Squat Lifting and Lowering with a Generic Back-Support Exoskeleton Model
by Mark Tröster, Sarah Budde, Christophe Maufroy, Michael Skipper Andersen, John Rasmussen, Urs Schneider and Thomas Bauernhansl
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(15), 9040; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph19159040 - 25 Jul 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3611
Abstract
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) induced by industrial manual handling tasks are a major issue for workers and companies. As flexible ergonomic solutions, occupational exoskeletons can decrease critically high body stress in situations of awkward postures and motions. Biomechanical models with detailed anthropometrics and motions [...] Read more.
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) induced by industrial manual handling tasks are a major issue for workers and companies. As flexible ergonomic solutions, occupational exoskeletons can decrease critically high body stress in situations of awkward postures and motions. Biomechanical models with detailed anthropometrics and motions help us to acquire a comprehension of person- and application-specifics by considering the intended and unintended effects, which is crucial for effective implementation. In the present model-based analysis, a generic back-support exoskeleton model was introduced and applied to the motion data of one male subject performing symmetric and asymmetric dynamic manual handling tasks. Different support modes were implemented with this model, including support profiles typical of passive and active systems and an unconstrained optimal support mode used for reference to compare and quantify their biomechanical effects. The conducted simulations indicate that there is a high potential to decrease the peak compression forces in L4/L5 during the investigated heavy loaded tasks for all motion sequences and exoskeleton support modes (mean reduction of 13.3% without the optimal support mode). In particular, asymmetric motions (mean reduction of 14.7%) can be relieved more than symmetric ones (mean reduction of 11.9%) by the exoskeleton support modes without the optimal assistance. The analysis of metabolic energy consumption indicates a high dependency on lifting techniques for the effectiveness of the exoskeleton support. While the exoskeleton support substantially reduces the metabolic cost for the free-squat motions, a slightly higher energy consumption was found for the symmetric stoop motion technique with the active and optimal support mode. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Ergonomics: Design, Development, and Usability Evaluation of Ergonomic Products for Application in Various Industries)
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15 pages, 4943 KiB  
Article
Ergonomic Assessment of a Lower-Limb Exoskeleton through Electromyography and Anybody Modeling System
by Yong-Ku Kong, Kyeong-Hee Choi, Min-Uk Cho, Seoung-Yoen Kim, Min-Jung Kim, Jin-Woo Shim, Sang-Soo Park, Kyung-Ran Kim, Min-Tae Seo, Hye-Seon Chae and Hyun-Ho Shim
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(13), 8088; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph19138088 - 01 Jul 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2938
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the muscle load reduction of the upper extremities and lower extremities associated with wearing an exoskeleton, based on analyses of muscle activity (electromyography: EMG) and the AnyBody Modeling System (AMS). Twenty healthy males in their [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to determine the muscle load reduction of the upper extremities and lower extremities associated with wearing an exoskeleton, based on analyses of muscle activity (electromyography: EMG) and the AnyBody Modeling System (AMS). Twenty healthy males in their twenties participated in this study, performing bolting tasks at two working heights (60 and 85 cm). The muscle activities of the upper trapezius (UT), middle deltoid (MD), triceps brachii (TB), biceps brachii (BB), erector spinae (ES), biceps femoris (BF), rectus femoris (RF), and tibialis anterior (TA) were measured by EMG and estimated by AMS, respectively. When working at the 60 cm height with the exoskeleton, the lower extremity muscle (BF, RF, TA) activities of EMG and AMS decreased. When working at the 85 cm height, the lower extremity muscle activity of EMG decreased except for TA, and those of AMS decreased except for RF. The muscle activities analyzed by the two methods showed similar patterns, in that wearing the exoskeleton reduced loads of the lower extremity muscles. Therefore, wearing an exoskeleton can be recommended to prevent an injury. As the results of the two methods show a similar tendency, the AMS can be used. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Ergonomics: Design, Development, and Usability Evaluation of Ergonomic Products for Application in Various Industries)
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12 pages, 353 KiB  
Article
Comparison of LEBA and RULA Based on Postural Load Criteria and Epidemiological Data on Musculoskeletal Disorders
by Dohyung Kee
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(7), 3967; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph19073967 - 26 Mar 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1869
Abstract
Various observational methods have been developed and applied in industrial settings with the aim of preventing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). This study aimed to compare the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), a representative observational method, and the Loading on the Entire Body Assessment (LEBA), [...] Read more.
Various observational methods have been developed and applied in industrial settings with the aim of preventing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). This study aimed to compare the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), a representative observational method, and the Loading on the Entire Body Assessment (LEBA), a newly developed tool for assessing postural loads and their association with MSDs. The two methods were compared in various categories, including general characteristics, risk levels, postural load criteria, association with MSDs, influencing factors, and inter- and intra-rater reliabilities based on relevant previous studies. The results showed that compared to the RULA, the LEBA was better at evaluating various factors affecting postural loads and assessing musculoskeletal loadings, was better correlated with various postural load criteria, could predict the association with MSDs more accurately, and had higher inter- and intra-rater reliabilities. Based on these comparisons, it seems that the LEBA may be better than the RULA for estimating postural stress and predicting the association with MSDs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Ergonomics: Design, Development, and Usability Evaluation of Ergonomic Products for Application in Various Industries)
15 pages, 703 KiB  
Article
Measuring User-Perceived Characteristics for Banking Services: Proposing a Methodology
by Olga Vl. Bitkina, Jaehyun Park and Hyun K. Kim
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(4), 2358; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph19042358 - 18 Feb 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2280
Abstract
With the continuous technological enhancement of banking services, customers can avail of better, more secure services which present improved opportunities and convenience. Of the many methods available to perform banking operations, customers commonly use traditional banking, online banking, and mobile banking. Each of [...] Read more.
With the continuous technological enhancement of banking services, customers can avail of better, more secure services which present improved opportunities and convenience. Of the many methods available to perform banking operations, customers commonly use traditional banking, online banking, and mobile banking. Each of these existing methods has advantages and limitations that affect customer experience, trust, satisfaction, and continued intention to use such services. In this study, an attempt was made to develop and fit a model to evaluate and measure the effect of perceived characteristics on banking services. To this end, a questionnaire was administered to 91 participants in Korea to investigate their experiences in the three types of services: offline banking (traditional banking), online banking, and automated teller machines (ATM). The factor design for evaluating the user experience through the perceived characteristics of the banking system was performed by conducting exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. The proposed model exhibited validity and reliability to evaluate the user experience in the banking system. The results obtained can help banking specialists and professionals increase the level of customers’ trust, loyalty, and intention to use their services. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Ergonomics: Design, Development, and Usability Evaluation of Ergonomic Products for Application in Various Industries)
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14 pages, 2358 KiB  
Article
Biomechanical Exposure to Upper Extremity Musculoskeletal Disorder Risk Factors in Hospital Laboratories
by Jung-Keun Park, Jon Boyer and Laura Punnett
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(1), 499; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph19010499 - 03 Jan 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1860
Abstract
Exposure to ergonomic risk factors has been reported for laboratory workers over decades. However, these exposures are not well characterized with respect to the type of laboratory or work organization. This study compared biomechanical exposure to upper extremity (UE) postures and hand activity [...] Read more.
Exposure to ergonomic risk factors has been reported for laboratory workers over decades. However, these exposures are not well characterized with respect to the type of laboratory or work organization. This study compared biomechanical exposure to upper extremity (UE) postures and hand activity levels (HALs) in general hospital laboratories by job, work, and laboratory type. The study used observational data gathered using a revised version of the Posture, Activity, Tools, and Handling (PATH) method, generating frequencies of categorized exposures. Eighteen workers were observed in 11 job titles (seven laboratories) in a single hospital by two investigators over a 7 month period. A taxonomy was constructed to categorize the extent to which the laboratory operations were automated. Overall, there were markedly high exposures to postural strain for the distal UE, especially wrist/forearm deviation (73% of observations), gross grasp (71%), and pinch grip (49%). For the HAL categories, 61% of the observations were in the moderate range (3.3–<6.7). Shoulders and elbows tended to remain in the neutral postural range. Posture frequencies were similar among the job categories studied and laboratory types. HAL was higher when the hand was in a pinch grip. Manual operations represented a higher proportion of work time than semi-automated or automated operations. Biomechanical exposure can be documented more extensively and diversely when using the revised PATH approach along with the taxonomy, with respect to exposure variables, such as the type of job, work, or organization in the industry including the hospital laboratories. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Ergonomics: Design, Development, and Usability Evaluation of Ergonomic Products for Application in Various Industries)
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8 pages, 702 KiB  
Article
Use of a Spinal Traction Device during Work Shift in Assembly Line Workers
by Juan Rabal-Pelay, Cristina Cimarras-Otal, Mónica Macia-Calvo, Carmen Laguna-Miranda and Ana Vanessa Bataller-Cervero
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(14), 7708; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph18147708 - 20 Jul 2021
Viewed by 3131
Abstract
Increasing back discomfort and spinal shrinkage during the workday is a problem that affects assembly line workers. The aim of this research was to analyze the effect of a spinal traction system on discomfort, spinal shrinkage, and spinal sagittal alignment in assembly line [...] Read more.
Increasing back discomfort and spinal shrinkage during the workday is a problem that affects assembly line workers. The aim of this research was to analyze the effect of a spinal traction system on discomfort, spinal shrinkage, and spinal sagittal alignment in assembly line workers, who are in prolonged standing conditions during a workday. A total of 16 asymptomatic males were recruited to assess spinal shrinkage, spinal sagittal alignment, and back discomfort during the workday. The measurement was carried out in two days of work, a normal day, and the other using a spinal traction device utilized in two breaks during the workday. Assembly line workers lost height significantly on both control and intervention days. No differences were found between days. No changes were found in spinal sagittal alignment on the control day. Lumbar lordosis angle increased significantly at the end of the intervention day. The use of a spinal traction device during the workday in two breaks time did not significantly reduce the spinal shrinkage of healthy workers. Lumbar lordosis angle increased significantly at the end of the spinal traction intervention day. Prospective studies would be necessary to clarify the possible benefits of the traction device. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Ergonomics: Design, Development, and Usability Evaluation of Ergonomic Products for Application in Various Industries)
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12 pages, 3320 KiB  
Article
Guidelines for Working Heights of the Lower-Limb Exoskeleton (CEX) Based on Ergonomic Evaluations
by Yong-Ku Kong, Chae-Won Park, Min-Uk Cho, Seoung-Yeon Kim, Min-Jung Kim, Dong Jin Hyun, Kihyeon Bae, Jong Kyu Choi, Sang Min Ko and Kyeong-Hee Choi
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(10), 5199; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph18105199 - 13 May 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3188
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the muscle activities and subjective discomfort according to the heights of tasks and the lower-limb exoskeleton CEX (Chairless EXoskeleton), which is a chair-type passive exoskeleton. Twenty healthy subjects (thirteen males and seven females) participated in [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the muscle activities and subjective discomfort according to the heights of tasks and the lower-limb exoskeleton CEX (Chairless EXoskeleton), which is a chair-type passive exoskeleton. Twenty healthy subjects (thirteen males and seven females) participated in this experiment. The independent variables were wearing of the exoskeleton (w/ CEX, w/o CEX), working height (6 levels: 40, 60, 80, 100, 120, and 140 cm), and muscle type (8 levels: upper trapezius (UT), erector spinae (ES), middle deltoid (MD), triceps brachii (TB), biceps brachii (BB), biceps femoris (BF), rectus femoris (RF), and tibialis anterior (TA)). The dependent variables were EMG activity (% MVC) and subjective discomfort rating. When wearing the CEX, the UT, ES, RF, and TA showed lower muscle activities at low working heights (40–80 cm) than not wearing the CEX, whereas those muscles showed higher muscle activities at high working heights (100–140 cm). Use of the CEX had a positive effect on subjective discomfort rating at lower working heights. Generally, lower discomfort was reported at working heights below 100 cm when using the CEX. At working heights of 100–140 cm, the muscle activity when wearing the CEX tended to be greater than when not wearing it. Thus, considering the results of this study, the use of the lower-limb exoskeleton (CEX) at a working height of 40–100 cm might reduce the muscle activity and discomfort of whole body and decrease the risk of related disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Ergonomics: Design, Development, and Usability Evaluation of Ergonomic Products for Application in Various Industries)
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12 pages, 6466 KiB  
Article
Usability Evaluation of Slanted Computer Mice
by Miguel L. Lourenço, Fátima Lanhoso and Denis A. Coelho
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(8), 3854; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph18083854 - 07 Apr 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1790
Abstract
Prevention of musculoskeletal disorders is supported by use of slanted rather than horizontal pointing devices, but user acceptance of the former may be compromised due to lower perceived ease of use. This study compares subjectively rated usability (N = 37) for three sizes [...] Read more.
Prevention of musculoskeletal disorders is supported by use of slanted rather than horizontal pointing devices, but user acceptance of the former may be compromised due to lower perceived ease of use. This study compares subjectively rated usability (N = 37) for three sizes of slanted computer mice and includes a horizontal small conventional device as a reference. For a random subset of the sample (n = 10), objective usability parameters were also elicited. Participants followed a standard protocol which is based on executing graphical pointing, steering, and dragging tasks generated by a purpose-built software. Subjective ratings were collected for each of the four pointing devices tested. The three slanted devices differed in size but were chosen because of an approximately similar slant angle (around 50–60 degrees relative to the horizontal plane). Additionally, effectiveness and efficiency were objectively calculated based on data recorded for the graphical tasks’ software for a random subset of the participants (n = 10). The results unveil small differences in preference in some of the subjective usability parameters across hand size groups. This notwithstanding, the objective efficiency results are aligned with the subjective results, indicating consistency with the hypothesis that smaller slanted devices relative to the user’s hand size are easier to use than larger ones. Mean values of weighted efficiency recorded in the study range from 68% to 75%, with differences across devices coherent with preference rank orders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Ergonomics: Design, Development, and Usability Evaluation of Ergonomic Products for Application in Various Industries)
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9 pages, 721 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Spinal Range of Motion and Musculoskeletal Discomfort in Forklift Drivers. A Cross-Sectional Study
by Juan Rabal-Pelay, Cristina Cimarras-Otal, Noel Marcen-Cinca, Andrés Alcázar-Crevillén, Carmen Laguna-Miranda and Ana Vanessa Bataller-Cervero
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(6), 2947; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph18062947 - 13 Mar 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2470
Abstract
Forklifts are commonly used in industrial supply chains to transport heavy loads. Forklift drivers have the risk of developing musculoskeletal discomfort derived from the movement pattern required at work. This research aimed to investigate the spinal range of motion (ROM) and musculoskeletal discomfort [...] Read more.
Forklifts are commonly used in industrial supply chains to transport heavy loads. Forklift drivers have the risk of developing musculoskeletal discomfort derived from the movement pattern required at work. This research aimed to investigate the spinal range of motion (ROM) and musculoskeletal discomfort of forklift drivers and compare it with a control group. Forklift drivers (39 males) and office workers (31 males) were recruited to assess cervical, thoracic, and lumbar ROM with an electronic double inclinometer. Additionally, musculoskeletal discomfort was registered with the Cornell Discomfort Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Forklift drivers showed a higher cervical discomfort and ROM of lateral lumbar bending than office workers. Both groups reported lower ROM in cervical and lumbar lateral bending on the right side versus the left side. No differences of asymmetry were reported for any variable between groups. Specific exercise programs may correct these mobility imbalances. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Ergonomics: Design, Development, and Usability Evaluation of Ergonomic Products for Application in Various Industries)
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Review

Jump to: Research

23 pages, 445 KiB  
Review
Systematic Comparison of OWAS, RULA, and REBA Based on a Literature Review
by Dohyung Kee
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(1), 595; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph19010595 - 05 Jan 2022
Cited by 30 | Viewed by 7809
Abstract
This study aimed to systematically compare three representative observational methods for assessing musculoskeletal loadings and their association with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs): Ovako Working Posture Analysis System (OWAS), Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), and Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA). The comparison was based on [...] Read more.
This study aimed to systematically compare three representative observational methods for assessing musculoskeletal loadings and their association with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs): Ovako Working Posture Analysis System (OWAS), Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), and Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA). The comparison was based on a literature review without time limitations and was conducted on various factors related to observational methods. The comparisons showed that although it has a significant limitation of comprising only two classifications for the leg postures, (1) the RULA is the most frequently used method among the three techniques; (2) many studies adopted the RULA even in evaluation of unstable lower limb postures; (3) the RULA assessed postural loads as higher risk levels in most studies reviewed in this research; (4) the intra- and inter-reliabilities for the RULA were not low; and (5) the risk levels assessed by the RULA were more significantly associated with postural load criteria such as discomfort, MHTs and % capable at the trunk, and MSDs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Ergonomics: Design, Development, and Usability Evaluation of Ergonomic Products for Application in Various Industries)
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