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Chien-Chi Chang, PhD, Raymond McGorry, MS, PT, and Michelle Robertson, PhD. Liberty Mutual Research Center for Safety, 71 Frankland Road, Hopkinton, MA 01748, 508-497-0260, chien-chi.chang@libertymutual.com
Often, the health professionals/ergonomists evaluating a manual material handling task will focus on the reduction of exposure to compressive forces acting on the lower back. This approach is usually appropriate, considering the high proportion of work-related lower back injuries. However, it is important to consider all potential effects of a proposed intervention. In this presentation, we will demonstrate an example of how a task modification, in this example utility cover removal tool selection, may have several intended or unintended consequences that could impact worker safety.
To this end, an experimental study was preformed to identify the effect of various tool designs for their effect on spinal loading and force requirements at the tool handle over the course of the utility cover removal task. In addition, analyses were also conducted to estimate the required coefficient of friction during the tasks. The potential risk of a fall was also evaluated.
The results show that the selection of a “best” tool is difficult when all the factors are considered. For examples, in this experiment, the fulcrum bar type of tools seems to be a good choice if based solely on an analysis of load exposure. However, the probability of slipping could become higher when this tool is used on wet, icy, or oily surfaces in compare to the others. It indicates that the best tool design or job modification may not be reduced to a single selection. Rather, it might be a selection that depends on factors unique to the locale or environment.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant in this session will be able to
Keywords: Ergonomics, Occupational Safety
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.