Risk factors for musculoskeletal injuries in airline maintenance,repair & overhaul

Aircraft maintenance workers are exposed to high injury rates, but risk exposures are difficult to measure and task contributors are difficult to identify due to the wide variety of parts and irregularity of jobs in this industry. Subjective metrics, posture assessments, and lifting analyses were collected from 235 employees from five work areas in aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facilities to measure ergonomic risk factors and identify task factors contributing to poor biomechanics. Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire indicated that the low back was the most commonly reported region of the body experiencing aches, pain, and discomfort (41% of participants), while knees were the highest (68%) in cabin maintenance, likely due to constraints in the aircraft cabin. Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) assessments showed that 57% of the jobs examined fell within the high-risk category. Causes of poor biomechanics differed by work area, e.g., overhead work was a key contributor in the engine change facility, while non-adjustable workstations were a likely contributor in cabin maintenance and engine maintenance. The under-looked cabin maintenance, engine change, and logistic jobs are the most pressing work areas in MRO that need ergonomic interventions.     

Investigation of musculoskeletal symptoms and ergonomic risk factors among female sewing machine operators in Turkey

This cross-sectional study aimed to identify the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms and ergonomic risks in female sewing machine operators at a textile company. The study sample comprised all female sewing machine operators in the company. The sample included 283 sewing machine operators. Data were collected through the use of the adapted Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and by direct observations via the rapid upper limb assessment (RULA) to determine ergonomic risks. RULA is a validated tool for assessment of ergonomic risks. The mean age of the women was 30.2 (SD: 8.4) and the mean number of years of employment was 13.4 (SD: 5.5). The highest prevalence rates for the women’s musculoskeletal symptoms were in the trunk (62.5%), neck (50.5%), and shoulder (50.2%). Of the women, 65% had experienced musculoskeletal pain or discomfort over the last 6 months. Pain intensity of these symptoms was assessed with a visual analogue scale. The average pain intensity of the women was found to be 3.5 (SD: 2.8). Results of the RULA scores were found to be quite high. There were no employees who received RULA scores of 1–2, which indicates acceptable postures (all scores >5). The final RULA scores of 6.9 indicate that the participants’ postures at their work stations need to be investigated immediately.

Relevance to industry

This study based on the RULA method allowed to perform a rapid and quite correct evaluation tolls for SMOs. For this research population, the research findings provided fundamental data on the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms and ergonomic risks among Turkish female SMOs.     

Evaluation of ergonomic approach and musculoskeletal disorders in two different organizations in a truck assembly plant

The aim of this study was to assess the ergonomic physical exposure, organizational and psychosocial factors in a truck assembly plant for two different cycle times (11 min and 8 min). A self-reported questionnaire was applied to evaluate subjective physical exposure, organizational and psychosocial factors by operators in two organization of an assembly process. The initial cycle time was 11 min (system A) and the new was 8 min (system B). The same work and assembly tasks had to be completed in both systems. However, the organization and distribution of the tasks and workstations were reorganized. The results of the questionnaire showed that subjective estimation by the operators regarding ergonomic risk factors was better in the new organization and self-reported WR-MSDs symptoms were fewer. However, exposure to risk factors and WR-MSDs symptoms was not statistically different between two cycle times. The findings provide better understanding of how organizational changes can modify ergonomic exposure in manufacturing assembly industries. Effective interventions are thus not only engineering solutions but also organizational and administrative adaptations.     

Assessing exposure to risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders using Quick Exposure Check (QEC) in taxi drivers

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a common health problem throughout the world. This study aimed to examine the risk factors that are involved in the development of WMSDs in taxi drivers. In total 382 taxi drivers were observed using Quick Exposure Check (QEC) observational tool, which allows practitioners and workers to assess four key areas of the body. Results of the QEC scores were found to be very high for the shoulder/arm, wrist/hand and neck, whereas the scores for the back were found to be high for static use and moderate for moving. The results also showed that the occupational risk factors for WMSDs were associated with restricted postures, repetitive movements, vibration, work related stress. Essential ergonomic interventions are needed to eliminate risk of exposures to WMSDs in taxi drivers.Relevance to industryThe study results have relevance for ergonomists, health and safety practitioners as well as the drivers themselves, and helpful for estimating the main physical risk factors for WMDSs before choosing a method prior to an ergonomic intervention in industry.     

Perceived competence in computer use as a moderator of musculoskeletal strain in VDU work: An ergonomics intervention case

Musculoskeletal strain and other symptoms are common in visual display unit (VDU) work. Psychosocial factors are closely related to the outcome and experience of musculoskeletal strain. The user – computer relationship from the viewpoint of the quality of perceived competence in computer use was assessed as a psychosocial stress indicator. It was assumed that the perceived competence in computer use moderates the experience of musculoskeletal strain and the success of the ergonomics intervention. The participants (n = 124, female 58%, male 42%) worked with VDU for more than 4 h per week. They took part in an ergonomics intervention and were allocated into three groups: intensive; education; and reference group. Musculoskeletal strain, the level of ergonomics of the workstation assessed by the experts in ergonomics and amount of VDU work were estimated at the baseline and at the 10-month follow-up. Age, gender and the perceived competence in computer use were assessed at the baseline. The perceived competence in computer use predicted strain in the upper and the lower part of the body at the follow-up. The interaction effect shows that the intensive ergonomics intervention procedure was the most effective among participants with high perceived competence. The interpretation of the results was that an anxiety-provoking and stressful user – computer relationship prevented the participants from being motivated and from learning in the ergonomics intervention. In the intervention it is important to increase the computer competence along with the improvements of physical workstation and work organization.     

Study protocol and baseline results for a quasi-randomized control trial: An investigation on the effects of ergonomic interventions on work-related musculoskeletal disorders,quality of work-life and productivity in knowledge-based companies

IntroductionWork-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are the major causes of lost workdays, increased costs, and occupational diseases in all countries. The prevalence of WMSDs among the workers in small and medium-sized enterprises in Iran was reported as 73%. This paper aimed to describe the design of an interventional study to investigate the effects of ergonomic interventions on work-related musculoskeletal disorders, quality of work-life, and productivity among office workers of knowledge-based companies and introduce the results obtained from the baseline survey.Methods/designIt was a quasi-randomized control trial study on 313 participants with four parallel groups including ergonomic training intervention; management training and work changes intervention; ergonomic training, management training and work changes intervention; and non-interventional control group. The primary outcome was WMSDs, and the secondary outcomes were occupational stress factors, quality of work-life, and productivity. All primary and secondary outcomes were measured before the interventions, one, three, and six months after the interventions.ResultsAt this phase of study only baseline results were reported. 328 participants, with a mean age of 31.97 years (SD = 5.39), completed the baseline survey and entered the study. The highest prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders was found in neck (52.13%), right shoulder (41.16%) and right forearm (37.2%), respectively.ConclusionErgonomic interventions were conducted based on baseline data of the participants at individual and management levels. The focus of training program interventions was to reduce musculoskeletal disorders in upper limbs; in management training and work changes program, the focus was to increase social support.Trial registrationIRCT registration number: IRCT20181204041840N1 (date of registration: 2019-02-05).     

Development of an injury prevention model for playing-related musculoskeletal disorders in orchestra musicians based on predisposing risk factors

IntroductionPlaying an instrument could lead to various disorders and several musicians report problems during their career. As there is no existing one, the aim of this study was to build a comprehensive model of injury prevention and risk factors in musicians by combining literature with interviews of musicians and experts.MethodsThe initial model has been based on literature. This model identified nine categories of risk factors. Then, interviews were conducted with 15 Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra musicians and 9 experts in musicians’ health to develop the final version.ResultsEighty percent of the RLPO instrumentalists experienced at least once PRMDs in their career. Postural and workload issues were mentioned most frequently. Experts agreed broadly with the initial model and added interesting items that should be taken into account in assessing musicians’ health.DiscussionThis theoretical framework provides perspectives in terms of assessment, treatment and prevention in musicians, whether they are currently suffering from PRMDs or not.     

Prevalence and associated risk factors of low‐back pain in textile fishing net manufacturing

This study examined the 7‐day prevalence of low‐back pain (LBP; i.e., pain within the preceding week of the survey) and identified associated factors, including working posture, for a population of fishing net assembly workers. LBP is a serious problem in manual work with high prevalence and affects worker absenteeism. A cross‐sectional survey study was conducted among textile fish net industrial workers using a structured questionnaire (hand delivered by researchers and independently completed by workers). The 7‐day prevalence of LBP in this study was 68.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 65 to 72%). Work factors significantly related to LBP included prolonged standing and walking. Workers 35 years old or greater were significantly more likely to experience LBP within the past 7 days preceding the survey than were those 34 years old or less (adjusted odds ratio [ORadj] = 4.9; 95% CI: 2.4 to 10.3; p = .0001). Other significant factors associated with LBP included posture position, specifically stooping (ORadj = 1.6; 95% CI: 1.0 to 2.3; p = .033), lifting (ORadj = 1.6; 95% CI: 1.1 to 2.4; p = .025), and high concentration jobs (ORadj = 1.9; 95% CI: 1.3 to 2.7; p = .001), respectively. LBP among textile fish net workers is a serious problem meriting ergonomic evaluation and design of control measures for reducing worker exposure to risk factors. Work characteristics were more significantly associated with LBP than were individual characteristics. Factories need to consider adjusting work conditions to prevent worker low‐back injuries. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.     

A participatory ergonomics intervention to reduce risk factors for low-back disorders in concrete laborers

Construction laborers rank high among occupational groups with work-related musculoskeletal injuries involving time way from work. The goals of this project were to: (1) introduce an ergonomic innovation to decrease the risk of low-back disorder (LBD) group membership, (2) quantitatively assess exposure, and (3) apply a participatory intervention approach in construction. Laborers manually moving a hose delivering concrete to a placement site were evaluated. The hypothesis tested was that skid plates would prevent hose joints from catching on rebar matting, and the hose would slide more easily. This would decrease the need for repetitive bending and use of excessive force. Four laborers were evaluated wearing the Lumbar Motion Monitor (LMM), a tri-axial electrogoniometer that records position, velocity and acceleration. Workers were measured during three comparable concrete pours. Worker perceptions of the innovation utility and exertion were surveyed. During initial use of skid plates, flexion increased significantly (p < 0.001) while velocity, acceleration and moments did not change. After implementing a worker modification, low back velocity, acceleration and moments were significantly reduced (p < 0.05). Reductions in these factors have been associated with decreased risk of belonging to an occupational group with LBDs. Use of secured skid plates during horizontal concrete hose movement may in part decrease the risk of LBD group membership among concrete laborers. Crew participation resulted in skid plates being a more effective intervention. The LMM is a promising tool for quantitative assessment in construction.     

Are knee savers and knee pads a viable intervention to reduce lower extremity musculoskeletal disorder risk in residential roofers?

One factor commonly associated with musculoskeletal disorder risk is extreme postures. To lessen this risk, extreme postures should be reduced using proactive and prevention-focused methods. The effect of combinations of two interventions, knee pads and knee savers, on lower extremity kinematics during deep or near full flexion kneeling on differently sloped surfaces was analyzed. Nine male subjects were requested to keep a typical resting posture while kneeling on a sloped roofing simulator with and without knee pads and knee savers. Three-dimensional peak knee kinematics were recording using a motion capture system. The kinematic data were analyzed with a two-way—4(intervention) X 3(slope)—repeated measure analysis of variance (ANOVA). It was observed that knee pads did not alter lower extremity kinematics in a way that may reduce musculoskeletal injury risk, but they do provide comfort. Knee savers did statistically significantly reduce peak lower extremity kinematics, however these changes were small and it is uncertain if the changes will reduce musculoskeletal injury risk. This study has provided initial data that supports the use of knee savers as a potential intervention to reduce musculoskeletal disorder risk due to lower extremity joint angles on a sloped surface, nonetheless, further testing involving other musculoskeletal disorder risk factors is needed prior to a conclusive recommendation.     

Ergonomics contribution to chemical risks prevention: An ergotoxicological investigation of the effectiveness of coverall against plant pest risk in viticulture

The purpose of this article is to present the contribution of a trans-disciplinary approach focused on ergonomics and chemical risk control. We shall more precisely discuss how such an approach carried out in the field of agricultural work has made it possible to highlight serious shortcomings in the effectiveness of the coveralls that are supposed to protect vineyard workers from pesticides. The study results, as well as the whistle-blow that followed have questioned the control and prevention measures used until then. The aforementioned trans-disciplinary approach gathers knowledge and methods from epidemiology, industrial hygiene, occupational health and safety and ergonomics. Ergonomics were central in the development of the approach as it connected task and activity analysis with contamination measurements. Lastly, the first results that were obtained have been confirmed and reused by the AFSSET (Agence Française de Sécurité Sanitaire Environnement et Travail, the French governmental agency in charge of environmental health and occupational health and safety issues) regarding the agricultural sector but also for all other situations in which workers use coveralls as protection against chemical risks.     

Risk factors associated to musculoskeletal disorder perception in college students,Bogota, 2016

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) have a high impact on the health of dual role workers (student and work). The aim of this study was to analyse risk factor (active pauses and job position) associated with MSD in postgraduate students, Bogotá 2016. This Cross-sectional study was conducted in a random sample of 304 college graduate students and statistical analysis in SPSS version 24. We found that significant differences between non-performing active pauses and neck symptoms (P = 0.007), not stretching vs neck symptoms [OR = 2.4048 (1.0133–5.707)]; laptop use vs eyes [OR = 2.7132 (1.457–5.0526)], shoulders [OR = 10.6364 (4.9905–22.6697)], elbows (P = 0.04); non-mouse usage vs elbows (P = 0.028), hand-wrist (P = 0.043); non-forearm support vs lower back (P = 0.009). Results suggest association between non-performing active pauses, stretching and neck; use of laptop and eyes, shoulders and left elbow, non-mouse usage and on elbow and hand/right wrist, no forearm support on table and lower back. Symptom changes in the upper and lower limbs were identified.     

Human reliability analysis and optimization of manufacturing systems through Bayesian networks and human factors experiments: A case study in a flexible intermediate bulk container manufacturing plant

Human reliability analysis (HRA) and optimization in manufacturing systems are effective to reduce system failure. The purpose of this study is to examine the HRA and optimization through a Bayesian network (BN) model and human factors experiments (HFEs). This study was applied to a flexible intermediate bulk container manufacturing plant. The human physiological and psychological factors consisting of personal abilities of flexibility, coordination, memory, and attention were regarded as the only performance shaping factors in this study. With the BN model, the relationship between human factors and human errors was described qualitatively and the impact of the human factor on system failures was judged quantitatively. Then the workers’ abilities training with HFEs based on the fault diagnosis results was carried out. The total numbers of errors have been decreased by 69.06% and the system failure rate has been reduced significantly after training.     

Development of a systematic checklist for the human factors evaluation of the operator aiding system in a nuclear power plant

In the safety systems review of the Korean nuclear power plants, the Human Factors Program Plan for the OAS (Operator Aiding System) has been executed mainly by an expert review. The reviewers had to integrate all the relevant sources of information and make judgement based on their own criteria. Consistency and thoroughness of this process was always in question and a systematic approach to correct these problems was in need. The purpose of this work was to design a methodology for supporting an effective and efficient ergonomic evaluation of the user interface of the OAS. By collecting and systematically structuring all the critical considerations in the human factors review process, an ergonomic evaluation checklist for the CFMS (Critical Function Monitoring System) in an MCR (Main Control Room) was designed and implemented in this study. Application of the developed checklist was used during the licensing review process for the CFMS of the Ulchin unit 3&4. Efficiency and effectiveness of the human factors review process was enhanced significantly with the aid of the integrated checklist and the standardized evaluation format developed in this study.

Relevance to industry

Human factors review process is an integral component of the safety of a nuclear power plant. The methods and procedures developed in this study will provide valuable support for the enhancement of the safety and usability of the human interface of the nuclear power plant.