| 1. |
- Forsman, Mikael, Professor, et al.
(author)
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Systematic risk management with RAMP for riskassessment and adapted changes - an implementation study
- 2022
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In: NES2022 WORK WELL Conference Proceedings Research. ; , s. 156-157
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Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- RAMP (Risk Assessment and Management tool for manual handling – Proactively), is arisk management tool focusing on manual handling work. Since 2017 RAMP has beenspread to over 105 countries. More than other methods, RAMP supports the entire riskmanagement process. RAMP is based on risk factors documented in scientific literature,and it has been evaluated regarding usability and reliability. It is now used for MSDrisk management in many organisations. The feedback from RAMP users is positive,and there are indications of reductions in sick absence.The purpose of the ongoing project is to investigate a selection of effects thatimplementation entails and to examine the implementation of RAMP from a leadershipand system perspective. Specific questions are: What happens when a companyimplements RAMP? Are the risk factors reduced? What affects the change? Whatstrategies do companies use when implementing RAMP? Are the effects of whichstrategies companies apply when implementing affected? What are the facilitators andbarriers to the implementation of this risk management method?The project is carried out as an implementation study based on mixed methods incollaboration between researchers and four production companies and two FHV actors.The effects and implementation of RAMP will be evaluated by comparing risk levels,qualitative interviews, document analyses, questionnaires and structured observationsof work processes. For changes in risk factors, RAMP risk assessments, which includeobservations and objectivemeasurements of push-pull forces, carried out at baseline andat follow-up will be compared. If possible, in addition to the above data collection, thecompany's own data on sick leave, productivity and quality (eg quality deficiency data)will be included and monitored over time.Implementations and effects of RAMP will be summarized in so-called logicalmodels. These models will identify inputs (e.g. time and resources set aside forimplementation), activities (e.g. training and measures implemented), intermediate(short-term) outcomes (e.g. the extent to which RAMP is used in the systematic workenvironment work and in the entire process for risk management, how much of the highrisks have been reduced, what type of measures have been taken and how the riskawareness has developed among employees), long-term outcomes (e.g. employees'perception of the workload, perceived health and perceived problems), and possiblylong-term outcomes (e.g. changes in sick absence, quality and productivity as well assharing good examples within the organisation).157At this point in the project, the questionnaire has been designed, companies havebeen contacted, and data collection at the first company, that now has assigned animplementation strategy, is about to start.The project is expected to show what effects on the work environment (possibly alsohealth, quality and productivity) that systematic application of the RAMP method canhave, aswell aswhich of the studied factors affect the implementation and to what extentthey do so. The results are expected to lead to new knowledge in the area of systematicrisk management and implementation strategies.
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| 2. |
- Rose, Linda M, 1963-, et al.
(author)
-
RAMP - A new tool for MSD risk management in manualhandling
- 2017
-
In: Conference Proceedings 48th Annual Conference of the Association of Canadian Ergonomists & 12th International Symposium on Human Factors in Organizational Design and Management "Organizing for High Performance ".
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Summative Statement: In this conference contribution RAMP (Risk Assessment and Management tool for Manual Handling - Proactively) will be presented. It is developed for managing MSD risks in manual handling jobs. The presentation will include a demonstration of the digitalised tool and information about upcoming Massive Open Online Courses about it.Problem statement: Manual handling work is regarded as one of the main causes to increased risks of developing Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Several MSD risk assessment tools have been developed, but have been found to have insufficiencies in managing MSD risks in manual handling. The insufficiencies include that tools only assess certain body parts or certain types of work, are not freely accessible, assess exposure but not risks, and don´t support the whole risk management process. In 2009 there was a call from a global company, which had identified a need for a scientifically based, freely accessible, risk assessment and risk management tool. The tool should support systematic risk management of MSD risks in manual handling jobs and be able to be used by companies themselves. To meet this call the development of the RAMP tool (Risk Assessment and Management tool for Manual Handling – Proactively) was started. It has been developed in a research and development (R&D) project in close co-operation between researchers and practitioners at companies.Research Objective: The objective of this conference contribution is to present the results of a seven year long R&D project: to describe the RAMP tool and its development, present the digitalised version, share some experiences from its use, and inform about upcoming RAMP Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), aimed at educating and training users in the RAMP tool.Methodology: RAMP is scientifically based and was developed with a participative R&D methodology. The participating organisations as well as the methodology, including the base for the development, ranging from scientific publications and legislation to user testing and feed-back, will be described in the presentation.Results: The RAMP tool consists of four parts: RAMP I, RAMP II, The Results module and the Action module. At the conference, these will be presented and the digitalised version of RAMP will be demonstrated. In addition, information about three Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) about the RAMP tool which are being developed will be presented and user experiences from applying RAMP will be shared. In addition to the oral presentation a workshop on RAMP is planned to be held at the conference.Discussion: The discussion focuses on how methods like RAMP, which are freely accessible, can be spread after the R&D project is finished. Another question is how to secure updates in the future for methods which do not bring any profit for the developers/owners.Conclusions: It is concluded that RAMP, a scientifically based new tool for risk management of MSD risks in manual handling, is freely available via KTH’s homepage and that a MOOC-package for disseminating knowledge and training on how to use the tool will be accessible from the autumn 2017.
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| 3. |
- Rose, Linda, 1963-, et al.
(author)
-
The RAMP package for MSD risk management in manual handling – A freely accessible tool, with website and training courses
- 2020
-
In: Applied Ergonomics. - : Elsevier BV. - 0003-6870 .- 1872-9126. ; 86
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In this paper the RAMP Package is presented with the objective to facilitate the application of the RAMP tool to systematically manage MSD risks. The package consists of the RAMP tool (Risk Assessment and Management tool for manual handling Proactively), the RAMP website, and free, globally available online, training courses (MOOCs). An Action module used for managing identified MSD risks is introduced. The tool, encompassing a wide range of risks, is applicable to the whole risk management process. Furthermore, RAMP is openly available for download, and free to use. The RAMP tool and training materials were developed using a participative iterative methodology including researchers and practitioners. RAMP was downloaded in 86 countries in the first 26 months since its' launch and over 2400 learners from high-, middle- and low-income countries have joined the MOOCs. The RAMP Package meets organisations’ needs for an accessible, comprehensive risk assessment and management tool.
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| 4. |
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| 5. |
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| 6. |
- Bohgard, Mats, et al.
(author)
-
Designing work and technology on human terms
- 2009. - 1:1
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In: Work and technology on human terms. - Stockholm : Prevent. - 9789173650588 ; , s. 9-18
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Book chapter (pop. science, debate, etc.)
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| 7. |
- Franzon, Helena, et al.
(author)
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A usability study of the SRA Index (Sustainable Risk Awareness Index)- a KPI for Management Support
- 2022
-
In: NES2022 WORK WELL Conference Proceedings. ; , s. 147-154
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Companies use risk observations and work environment (WE) deviations such as occupationalaccidents and occupational illnesses to prevent injuries. There is no standard for how risks andoccupational injuries are reported. Praktikertjänst's management requests a standard as ameasure that can be used to work more proactively with health and safety and supportsustainable business development. Therefore, the SRA method was developed for calculatingand visualizing a work environment KPI related to the severity of WE deviations, the SRA Index.(Sustainable Risk Awareness Index for management support). Existing data (risk observations,near misses, work-related accidents and work-related illnesses) are used for calculating the SRAIndex. In this study the usability of the SRA Index was evaluated with a questionnaire amongwork environment experts. They assessed the SRA method to be easy to understand, to havehigh usability and to be valuable for assessing an organisation’s risk awareness.
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| 8. |
- Franzon, Helena, et al.
(author)
-
The SRA Index (Sustainable Risk Awareness Index) : A New KPI for Management Support
- 2021
-
In: Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems. - Cham : Springer Nature. ; , s. 457-466
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The objective with this project is to develop a key performance indicator (KPI) related to work environment deviations, such as risk observations, near misses and injuries. This as a support for managers decision making in steering companies towards higher risk awareness as well as to contribute to the development of safer and more sustainable work environments and jobs. In addition, the aim is to contribute to a work environment (WE) reporting standard with a KPI related to the severity of WE deviations. Based on a literature study an iterative development of such a KPI has resulted in the Sustainable Risk Awareness Index (the SRA Index) and a visualization of it and its components using the Risk Awareness Triangle, also developed in this project. The development of the SRA Index is described and the index is exemplified with data from the electrical installation sector, the healthcare industry and one of Sweden’s largest private health company. Also the Risk Triangle is exemplified. The need for and the advantages of standardized methods to report WE deviations in companies sustainability reports are discussed. It is concluded that initial use of this KPI, according to management, fills an identified gap, it provides the management with a usable tool for systematic work environment overview and it supports their informed decision-making.
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| 9. |
- Hallén, Karin, et al.
(author)
-
Ergonomisk utvärdering av rollatorprototyp ”Walker”
- 2006
-
Reports (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Denna rapport sammanfattar en jämförande studie av Trionics rollatorprototyp ”Walker” och två konventionella utomhusrollatorer. Studien har omfattat litteraturgenomgång, tekniska tester främst avseende forcering av hinder, samt användartester med tio rollatoranvändare som efter ett par veckors provanvändning av ”Walker” jämfört denna med sin ordinarie rollator. Vid användartesterna har främst intervjuer, subjektiva skattningar och EMG analys använts. Den ergonomiska analysen visar att Walker är överlägsen de konventionella rollatorerna vid passage av typiska hinder, såsom trottoarkanter och trädrötter. Kraftåtgången för att forcera en trottoarkant uppmättes till att vara 6-12 gånger större för de testade konventionella rollatorerna jämfört med Walker. I användarutvärderingen fick Walker högre betyg i alla testade utomhusmiljöer jämfört med användarnas ordinarie rollatorer. Den enda miljön där Walker bedömdes ha en sämre funktion än de medverkandes ordinarie rollator var i affärer. Dessutom uppskattas flera andra funktioner av användarna, såsom designen, bromsen och värdefickan. Däremot har Walker vissa brister gentemot konventionella rollatorer vad avser övrig hanterbarhet som hopfällning och smidighet vid passage genom dörrar etc. Speciellt de äldre användarna upplevde att Walker behöver vidareutvecklas i dessa avseenden. I rapporten ges förslag på förbättringar av Walker, såväl från författarna som från de medverkande i studien. Efter avslutad testperiod fick de medverkande användarna svara på frågan om de ville behålla Walker i stället för sin ordinarie rollator. Av de nio som svarade ville sju hellre behålla Walker rollatorn. Samtliga fem medverkande som använde rollator pga. av funktionsnedsättning orsakad av handikapp eller sjukdom ville behålla Walker medan hälften av dem som använde rollator pga. åldersskäl ville behålla den. Huvudslutsatsen av studien är att Walker är ergonomiskt fördelaktig jämfört med konventionella utomhusrollatorer i flera avseenden, speciellt vid användning i terräng och vid hinderpassage. Den upplevs mycket positivt av de yngre medverkande i utvärderingen. Förbättringspotential har konstaterats för vissa funktioner, speciellt vad avser hantering i trånga miljöer och möjligheten att fälla ihop rollatorn.
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| 10. |
- Hallén, Karin, et al.
(author)
-
Studie av pressmaskiner för VS-arbete
- 2006
-
Reports (other academic/artistic)abstract
- I denna rapport redovisas resultaten av en studie om pressmaskiner på uppdrag av parterna VVS Installatörerna och Byggnads. Tidigare har det uppmärksammats att maskinen är tung och att arbete med den ofta sker i ogynnsamma arbetsställningar över axelhöjd. Målet med projektet har varit att göra en översiktlig kartläggning av vilka maskiner som används för att pressa ihop VS-rör samt att göra en bedömning av arbetsmiljöaspekterna av detta monteringsarbete. Det har genomförts med montörer från tre företag i Stockholmsområdet. En litteraturstudie har genomförts och sammanställts. Arbetsplatsanalyser har gjorts med tio medverkande montörer. Vid dessa har subjektiva metoder såsom intervjuer och skattningar med VIDAR och Borgs CR-10 skala använts och objektiva metoder såsom EMG-metoder, biomekaniska datorsimuleringar och beräkningar. Resultaten visar att det finns olika maskin- och kopplingstyper, men inte någon gemensam standard för maskiner, backar eller kopplingar. I rapporten ges en sammanställning av de maskintyper som de återförsäljare och rörföretag som medverkat anser vara vanligast. Den ergonomiska analysen visar att många av de arbetsmoment med pressmaskin i tak som analyserats är olämpliga ur ergonomisk synpunkt. Arbetsställningarna vid fogning av rör i tak leder till ogynnsamma belastningar. Man arbetar ofta med armarna över axelhöjd, med vridna och böjda arbetsställningar och leder nära eller i ytterläge vilket bidrar till detta. De hanterade maskinerna och backarna (käftarna) som påträffats i studien väger tillsammans mellan 2,5 och 9 kg. I hur stor omfattning pressfogar används har varit svårt att klargöra i studien. Kontaktpersonerna på rörföretagen och återförsäljarna samt montörerna som medverkat i studien bedömde att 40 % eller mer av alla rörfogar pressas. Detta motsägs dock av det faktum att det var svårt att hitta objekt i Stockholmsområdet där man använde pressfogning under den sexveckorsperiod som fältstudien genomfördes. Arbetet som utförs över axelhöjd med att iordningsställa rör inför fogning samt fogning uppskattas av montörerna utgöra ungefär en tredjedel av arbetstiden. Av denna tid utgör själva fogningen en liten del. Används pressning är den muskuloskeletala belastningen högre än vid svetsning/lödning, men fogningstiden är kortare vid pressning än vid svetsning/lödning. En slutsats av studien är att arbete med att pressfoga rör i tak är ergonomiskt sett olämpligt. De ogynnsamma arbetsställningarna i sig är en huvudorsak till detta. Å andra sidan medför de befintliga alternativa arbetsmetoderna också höga belastningar, främst genom att arbetsställningarna är likartade. Därför kan även de befintliga alternativa metoderna vara ogynnsamma, även om dessa inte varit i fokus i denna studie. I rapporten ges även förslag på fortsatt arbete, t.ex. utveckling av nya koncept för fogning av rör. Ett annat är en kartläggning av hur mycket man exponeras för ogynnsamma arbetsställningar och andra riskfaktorer vid olika fogningsmetoder, samt mer information om återhämtningstider efter sådant arbete. Det skulle ge ett bättre underlag för prioriteringar i arbetsmiljöarbetet, eftersom man i den ergonomiska bedömningen också bör väga in typ av arbete (statiskt/dynamiskt) och tidsaspekter (bl.a. exponeringstid).
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| 11. |
- Insanic, Jasmina, et al.
(author)
-
Expert user perspectives of the Ergo-Index model for analysis of work tasks
- 2017
-
In: NES2017 Conference Proceedings. - Lund : Lund University. ; , s. 313-320
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The purpose of this study is to evaluate an updated beta version of Ergo-Index, a digital tool for ergonomic risk assessments. The evaluation was performed with 15 expert users who assessed type, distance, height and exposure time of certain work tasks, as well as the usability of the tool. In conclusion, the users find the present state of the Ergo-Index suitable as a first screening method. Assessments of lifting work have the greatest inter-rater reliability. Further development of the digitalized version of the tool is needed to improve accuracy assessing input regarding pushing and pulling work tasks, and to increase usability.
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| 12. |
- Lagerström, Gunnar, et al.
(author)
-
Arbetsmiljö och ekonomi
- 2008. - 1:1
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In: Arbete och teknik på människans villkor. - Stockholm : Prevent. - 9789173650373 ; , s. 637-662
-
Book chapter (pop. science, debate, etc.)
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| 13. |
- Lagerström, Gunnar, et al.
(author)
-
Work environment and economics
- 2009. - 1:1
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In: Work and Technology on Human Terms. - Stockholm : Prevent. - 9789173650588 ; , s. 1-718
-
Book chapter (pop. science, debate, etc.)
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| 14. |
- Lind, Carl
(author)
-
Assessment and design of industrial manual handling to reduce physical ergonomics hazards : – use and development of assessment tools
- 2017
-
Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Despite efforts of reducing harmful physical ergonomics exposures related to manual handling, the occurrence of heavy or repetitive manual handling, and non-neutral postures is high in many occupational sectors. To reduce these exposures, interventions and job design strategies can utilize risk assessment. A need was identified of an observation-based tool which supported occupational health and safety practitioners for assessments of risk factors related to manual handling.The aim of this thesis was to explore the use and important usability-related aspects of observation-based assessment tools among professional ergonomists, and to develop new research based assessment and screening tools, to present their scientific basis and to evaluate their reliability and usability. A web-based questionnaire was employed to gain knowledge on the use and usability aspects of risk assessment tools among ergonomists in Sweden. The assessment tools RAMP I and RAMP II were developed in an iterative process, including literature searches, expert group judgments, and with input from more than 80 practitioners. The reliability and usability evaluations included assessments and ratings by practitioners.The thesis points to a low use of several internationally spread assessment tools among Swedish ergonomists, and a relatively higher use of tools promoted by the Swedish Work Environment Authority. Several usability-related aspects were identified as important, such as being easy and quick to use, its ability to communicate and visualize the results, and its ability to facilitate improvement measures. The developed tools support assessment of a broad range of risk factors related to manual handling. The thesis supports that assessments with acceptable reliability can be achieved for the majority of items of the two developed tools. The thesis supports that the tools are usable in supporting risk assessments targeting risk factors related to industrial manual handling.
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| 15. |
- Lind, Carl, et al.
(author)
-
Development and evaluation of RAMP I : a practitioner tool for screening for musculoskeletal disorder risk factors in manual handling
- 2017
-
Other publication (other academic/artistic)abstract
- RAMP I is a screening tool developed to support practitioners in screening for work-related musculoskeletal disorder risk factors related to manual handling. RAMP I, which is part of the RAMP tool, is based on research based studies combined with expert group judgments. More than 80 practitioners participated in the development of RAMP I. The tool constitutes of dichotomous assessment items grouped in seven categories. Acceptable reliability was found for a majority of the assessment items for 15 practitioners who were given 1h training. The usability evaluation points to RAMP I being usable for screening for musculoskeletal disorder risk factors, i.e., usable for assessing risks, usable as a decision base, has clear results, and the time needed for an assessment is acceptable. It is concluded that RAMP I is a valuable tool for practitioners.
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| 16. |
- Lind, Carl, et al.
(author)
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Development and evaluation of RAMP I – a practitioner’s tool for screening of musculoskeletal disorder risk factors in manual handling
- 2019
-
In: International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics (JOSE). - : Taylor & Francis. - 1080-3548 .- 2376-9130. ; 25:2, s. 165-180
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- RAMP I is a screening tool developed to support practitioners in screening for work-related musculoskeletal disorder riskfactors related to manual handling. RAMP I, which is part of the RAMP tool, is based on research-based studies combinedwith expert group judgments. More than 80 practitioners participated in the development of RAMP I. The tool consistsof dichotomous assessment items grouped into seven categories. Acceptable reliability was found for a majority of theassessment items for 15 practitioners who were given 1 h of training. The usability evaluation points to RAMP I beingusable for screening for musculoskeletal disorder risk factors, i.e., usable for assessing risks, being usable as a decision base,having clear results and that the time needed for an assessment is acceptable. It is concluded that RAMP I is a usable toolfor practitioners.
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| 17. |
- Lind, Carl Mikael, et al.
(author)
-
Development and evaluation of RAMP II - a practitioner’s tool for assessing musculoskeletal disorder risk factors in industrial manual handling
- 2020
-
In: Ergonomics. - : Informa UK Limited. - 0014-0139 .- 1366-5847. ; 63:4, s. 477-504
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- RAMP II is an observation-based tool developed for assessing a wide range of musculoskeletal disorder risk factors related to industrial manual handling. RAMP II, which is part of the RAMP tool, is based on research studies and expert judgments. The assessment relies mainly on direct or video observations of the work being assessed, but additionally on measured push/pull forces and weights of handled objects, and on perceived workload and discomfort. Over 80 practitioners participated in the development of the tool. According to the evaluations, 73% of the assessment items evaluated had acceptable reliability, and the majority of the potential end-users reported that RAMP II is usable for assessing risks and as a decision base. It is concluded that this study provides support that RAMP II is usable for risk assessment of musculoskeletal disorder risk factors in industrial manual handling. Practitioner summary: RAMP II is an observation-based assessment tool for screening and assessing major musculoskeletal exposures in industrial manual handling jobs. Over 80 practitioners participated in the development of the tool. This study provides support that RAMP II is usable for risk assessment of musculoskeletal disorder risk factors in industrial manual handling. Abbreviations: CTS: carpal tunnel syndrome; HARM: the Hand Arm Risk Assessment method; IMP: intramuscular pressure; κw: linearly weighted kappa; LBD: lower back disorders; LBP: lower back pain; MAWL: maximum acceptable weight of lift; MHO: manual handling operations; MSD: musculoskeletal disorder; MNSD: neck-shoulder disorder; NSP: neck-shoulder pain; OCRA: the Occupational Repetitive Action methods; OHS: occupational health and safety; PABAK: prevalence and bias adjusted kappa; p0: proportion of agreement; RAMP: Risk Assessment and Management tool for manual handling Proactively; ROM: range of motion; RPL: risk and priority level; RSI: the Revised Strain Index; RULA: the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment; SWEA: Swedish Work Environment Authority; UEMSDs: upper-extremity work-related musculoskeletal disorders; WMSD: work-related musculoskeletal disorder; WRMSD: work-related musculoskeletal disorder; workday8h: eight hours workday.
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| 18. |
- Mazaheri, Ava, 1992-
(author)
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Beyond the Force: Redefining load exposure assessments of nutrunners for improved power tool ergonomics
- 2023
-
Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Reaction force exposure from handheld tightening tools (also known as nutrunners) constitutes an acknowledged contributor to musculoskeletal disorders among assembly operators, and are today not regulated by explicit limits. The research presented in this thesis aimed at contributing to the development of recommended exposure limits for, and assessments of, reaction loads from handheld right-angle and pistol-grip tightening tools.In order to address the thesis objectives, four research studies were conducted. A literature review was conducted to provide an overview of the current state of knowledge within the topic area. Knowledge gaps were identified by mapping available publications and based on those suggesting directions for further research. Thereafter, two psychophysically based experimental studies were conducted where acceptability limits related to load exposure from handheld tightening tools were derived for right-angle and pistol-grip tightening tools. Finally, an automotive manufacturer’s approach to evaluating and managing the use of handheld tightening tools was outlined by means of an interview study.As found through the literature review, four of the forty included publications had stated exposure limits (general recommendations) or acceptability limits (load acceptance as assessed by study participants) for reaction load exposure from handheld tightening tools. However, some of the reported limits did not consider relevant physical parameters, and some did not comply with modern power tool technologies. Based on this, it was suggested that researchers should emphasize physical quantities relevant to the reaction load such as impulse, express exposure limits in terms of reaction load relevant parameters (and not only the tightening torque), and further study modern power tool technologies.The experimental studies resulted in acceptability limits for right-angle and pistol-grip tightening tools expressed as screw-joint tightening torque (i.e. a task-related factor), where acceptable tightening torque limits were higher for the inertia-controlled tightening program compared to the continuous drive tightening program, in both studies. In addition, corresponding acceptable reaction load levels (i.e. the exposure) were derived, indicating load levels resulting from the tool use that the study participants assessed as acceptable for an 8-hour workday. It should be noted that the experimental times on which the acceptability limits are based were limited, and that the acceptability limits therefore should not be prescribed to full workdays.From the interview study, three main topic categories were identified based on the interviewees’ responses: ‘A holistic approach’, ‘Information and knowledge availability’ and ‘Negotiating criteria’. Within the studied automotive organization, a comprehensive approach to ergonomics assessments is incorporate, where both objective and subjective evaluations form the basis for addressing physically demanding tool use situations. Further, it was found that there are different instances where the employees lack sufficient knowledge related to the tools, and which can influence the employment of handheld tightening tools. In addition, it was found that criteria such as safety and quality could in some situations compete with ergonomics efforts. In conclusion, the findings from this thesis can contribute to the development of recommended exposure limits and evaluation methods for reaction load exposure from handheld tightening tools. Policymakers could utilize the insights presented in this thesis to form general guidelines directed at power tool manufacturers as well as tool using organizations. Through standardized guidelines, reaction loads from handheld tightening tools, which is one of the contributors to MSDs within assembly work, can be managed and reduced.
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| 19. |
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| 20. |
- Mazaheri, Ava, et al.
(author)
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Reaction force exposure for tightening tool users : A psychophysical based experimental study of electric right-angle nutrunners
- 2022
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In: Applied Ergonomics. - : Elsevier BV. - 0003-6870 .- 1872-9126. ; 103
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Reaction forces from nutrunner tools constitute a risk of developing MSDs. However, recommendations for sustainable reaction force levels are lacking. The aim of this study was to inform recommendations regarding reaction load exposures from right-angle nutrunners. Through a psychophysics approach, experienced assembly workers subjectively assessed reaction loads when using a nutrunner in six combinations of tool tightening strategy, work-pace and screw-joint stiffness. Electromyography, tool and joint parameters were measured. Regardless of tightening strategy, joint stiffness and work-pace combinations, no large differences in acceptable tightening torque, peak reaction force, and handle displacement were observed. However, acceptable jerk and impulse differed substantially between the TurboTight (R) (high-acceleration) and QuickStep (R) (conventional) tightening strategies. Although the TurboTight (R) strategy overall showed reduced peak muscular activities compared to the QuickStep (R), the participant-rated acceptable torque levels were similar, plausibly due to TurboTights' high jerk levels. Jerk and impulse are hypothesized to influence the perception of reaction loads.
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| 21. |
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| 22. |
- Mazaheri, Ava, et al.
(author)
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Reaction load exposure from handheld powered tightening tools : A scoping review
- 2021
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In: International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics. - : Elsevier BV. - 0169-8141 .- 1872-8219. ; 81
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Assembly workers using handheld powered tightening tools are repetitively subjected to reaction loads resulting from the tool handle. Despite the vast amount of research, tool manufacturers and OSH practitioners still lack well-grounded recommendations and benchmarks for ergonomics evaluations of reaction loads. This review provides an overview of research investigating reaction loads and operator physical demand, and identifies gaps in current means of evaluating reaction load exposure from tightening tools. A scoping review was conducted, scanning for quantifications of reaction loads as well as reported indications of MSD risks following tightening tool use. Suggested maximum exposures for reaction loads were further identified. The most commonly investigated quantities among the 40 publications included, were peak reaction force/torque (70%) and handle displacement (70%), followed by impulse (23%). Pneumatic tools were studied at greater extent (65%) than electric tools (30%). Three studies presented a relationship between reaction load exposure and physiological changes, i.e. edema, tissue oxygenation and blood volume changes, indicating an elevated risk of developing MSDs. Four publications proposed values for maximum reaction load exposure, expressed as either reaction torque, handle displacement, or tightening torque. To conclude, strategies for developing recommendations for reaction load exposure are suggested. Less investigated reaction parameters, e.g. impulse, can carry additional relevant information regarding exposure. Exposure values should be expressed as physical quantities of the reaction load rather than tightening torque. Recommendations are further needed for various tool handle-configurations, emphasizing the increasingly used electric tools. Such recommendations can eventually contribute to reducing MSDs resulting from tightening tool use.
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| 23. |
- Mazaheri, Ava, et al.
(author)
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Reaction Parameters Linked to Cumulative Trauma Disorders during Use of Powered Tightening Tools : A Literature Review
- 2019
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In: PREMUS 2019. 10th International Scientific Conference on the Prevention of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders.. ; , s. 255-
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: The impact of physical reactions on human operators generated byhandheld powered tightening tools has been researched by evaluating variousparameters, here referred to as ‘reaction parameters’. The objective of this literaturereview is to investigate which reaction parameters commonly are assessed duringphysical load evaluations of tightening tools, as well as reported correlations betweenreaction parameters and risk of developing cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs). Anadditional aim is to map exposure limits established for reaction parameters and identifyknowledge gaps regarding tightening tool impact on operators, if any.Methods: A systematic approach was adopted to review relevant literature, followingthe PRISMA flow-diagram. Synonyms of defined keywords were combined for search in3 databases. 76 articles were read and evaluated against inclusion criteria, of which 47articles where included in a qualitative synthesis. An overview of the assessed reactionparameters was obtained, as well as suggested linkages between these parameters andrisk of injury development.Results: Main parameters studied in literature are reaction force/torque (79%) andhandle displacement (74%). Impulse and handle velocity are studied in 26% and 15% ofthe articles, respectively. 51% of the studies also report a correlation between assessedreaction parameters and risk of developing CTDs. Three studies present exposure limitsfor reaction parameters. 1/3 of the studies were conducted on electric tools, whereasapproximately 2/3 were performed on pneumatic tools.Conclusions: There is a knowledge gap concerning several reaction parametersand their implications for developing CTDs, especially regarding impulse, tool handlevelocity/acceleration and grip force. Their influence is suggested to be explored infurther studies. Establishing exposure limits related to the reaction parameters wouldtranslate the scientific knowledge into industrially applicable recommendations. Further,the need for studies on electric tools is evident, due to a shift in the industry frompneumatic to electric tools.
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| 24. |
- Neumann, W. Patrick, et al.
(author)
-
A comparison of work-rest models using a "breakpoint" analysis raises questions
- 2020
-
In: IISE TRANSACTIONS ON OCCUPATIONAL ERGONOMICS & HUMAN FACTORS. - : Informa UK Limited. - 2472-5838 .- 2472-5846. ; 8:4, s. 187-194
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- OCCUPATIONAL APPLICATIONS Designing sustainable cyclic work requires attention to both the workload amplitude as well as the duty cycle, the fraction of the work cycle with active workload, that therefore also defines the recovery phase of the cycle. A number of different approaches and models have been developed to calculate the required recovery time for a given load and duty cycle. We present a comparison of three types of models at the "breakpoint" that defines the boundary of load amplitude and duty cycle where fatigue begins to accumulate faster than recovery allows within the work cycle. This comparison shows considerable variation between models of the "allowable" load or duty cycle depending on the method used. Practitioners should thus be cautious applying these models indiscriminately in job design as their results can vary substantially. In particular, differences between the tasks used for model formulation and application may compromise validity, and model application in a given context should be verified before broad application. TECHNICAL ABSTRACT Rationale: There is a need for tools to help design sustainable work in which muscular capacity and other human resources can recover at least as quickly as they are used. Purpose: In this brief report, three different approaches presented in the literature to determining work-rest schedules in cyclic work are compared. Methods: First, a set of five different muscular endurance models coupled with a recovery time model were considered, both with and without a dynamic work correction factor. Second, we examined a model of "resumption time", and third a psychophysically-based model of maximum duty cycle was included. These models were compared using the concept of a "breakpoint" in fatigue accumulation-the point at which a given load amplitude and duty cycle combination begins to cause accumulation of fatigue in each cycle and from which there is inadequate time to recover. Results: While the five endurance time models all behaved similarly, both with and without the static-to-dynamic correction factor applied, the three different types of modeling approaches provided substantially different response patterns. The psychophysically based model provided the most protective guideline among the models compared. Conclusion: These models should be applied with caution to particular work scenarios. Further research is needed to test accuracy and effectiveness when applying such models to a range of task scenarios to establish safe workloads and loading times in the design of repetitive work.
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| 25. |
- Nilsson, Birgitta, et al.
(author)
-
Förbättrad arbetsmiljö för anläggningsmaskinförare
- 2004
-
Reports (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Denna rapport sammanfattar resultatet av projektet ”Analys av personskaderisker och deras kostnader för företag med anläggningsmaskiner”. Det har genomförts på uppdrag av Prevent i samarbete med Maskinentreprenörerna (ME), Svenska Byggnadsarbetareförbundet (Byggnads) och Facket för Service och Kommunikation (SEKO) och har finansierats av AFA. Syftet med projektet har varit att i) få en översikt av personskadorna (arbetsolycksfall och arbetssjukdomar) och deras kostnader för företag och ii) systematiskt identifiera och bedöma riskerna med arbete i maskinerna och de kostnader de medför för företagen samt iii) undersöka och föreslå risksänkande åtgärder samt skatta riskerna och kostnaderna om dessa åtgärder genomförs. Resultaten baseras främst på arbetsplatsanalyser, intervjuer med maskinförare och företagsledare, litteraturstudier, statistikbearbetningar och analyser med riskhanteringsmetoderna SCA och MAWRIC. Resultaten visar att anläggningsmaskinförare har en påfrestande arbetsmiljö. Belastningsskada är den vanligaste och allvarligaste arbetssjukdomen och den vanligaste arbetsolyckan är att skada sig vid i- och urstigning (fallolyckor). Risken att skada andra runt maskinen upplevs som påfrestande och det sker såväl tillbud som olyckor där människor runt maskinen skadas. Ett viktigt resultat i projektet är en sammanställning av förslag på hur man kan minska personskaderiskerna, både genom att använda redan befintliga lösningar och genom att utveckla nya. Såväl organisatoriska som tekniska förändringar föreslås. Resultaten med SCA visar att de arbetsrelaterade personskaderiskerna medför kostnader för företaget som är i storleksordningen en tredjedel av företagets vinst. Detta är en väsentlig del av företagets resultat. MAWRIC-analysen visar att det finns möjligheter att förbättra arbetsmiljön och att sådana förbättringar bör minska personskaderiskerna. Investeringarna är kostsamma, men medför såväl färre skador som ekonomiska besparingar på sikt (här sett på en femårs-period). Kostnaderna för personskador skulle minska till att därefter utgöra motsvarande 1/8 av vinsten. Detta är en avsevärd sänkning. Förhoppningen är att företag och branschen drar nytta av resultatet från studien och inspireras till arbete med att förbättra arbetsmiljön. Det tjänar alla inblandade på.
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| 26. |
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| 27. |
- Nilsson, Birgitta, et al.
(author)
-
Packaging Ergonomics
- 2005. - 1
-
In: The Ljungberg Textbook. - Stockholm : KTH.
-
Book chapter (pop. science, debate, etc.)
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| 28. |
- Orrenius, Ulf E, et al.
(author)
-
Ergonomic evaluation of a new type of rollator
- 2007
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- A prototype of a novel rollator, named “Walker” on the Swedish market,was evaluated with respect to obstacle climbing, steering and generalusability. The prototype has a novel design with a triangular base and adouble front wheel on a lever arm arrangement to simplify passing acrossobstacles. Both technical tests and user tests were carried out.The main conclusion is that “Walker” is in several respectsergonomically advantageous compared to the traditional out-door rollators,especially in rough terrain and when passing obstacles. Suggestions forimprovements of certain functions of “Walker” are made, such as handlingin narrow environments and the ability to fold the rollator.
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| 29. |
- Osvalder, Anna-Lisa, et al.
(author)
-
Methods
- 2009. - 1:1
-
In: Work and technology on human terms. - Stockholm : Prevent. - 9789173650588 ; , s. 463-566
-
Book chapter (pop. science, debate, etc.)
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| 30. |
- Osvalder, Anna-Lisa, et al.
(author)
-
Metoder
- 2008. - 1:1
-
In: Arbete och teknik på människans villkor. - Stockholm : Prevent. - 9789173650373 ; , s. 463-566
-
Book chapter (pop. science, debate, etc.)
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| 31. |
- Osvalder, Anna-Lisa, 1961, et al.
(author)
-
Metoder
- 2008
-
In: Arbete och teknik på människans villkor. - 9789173650373 ; , s. 105-
-
Book chapter (other academic/artistic)
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| 32. |
- Rodrigues Coutinho, Brenda, et al.
(author)
-
Meeting the Challenges of Home Care in Small Residential Bathrooms : Creation of the Bathroom Aid Inventory
- 2022
-
In: Conference Proceedings of the 51<sup>st</sup> NES Conference. ; , s. 176-177
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background and purposeOur society is facing major demographic challenges in healthcare. The growing population of older people is outpacing the creation of residential care facilities like nursing homes, meaning that more and more people are ‘aging in place’. ‘Aging in place’ means continuing to reside in a private residence in the community even as care needs intensify. It is an economically efficient option and often preferred by aging people, but it also brings substantial challenges. Eventually people require support from home careworkers with the vital and personal tasks that take place in the bathroom: toileting and bathing. However, residential bathrooms are often small and not designed to accommodate a care recipient, care worker, and mobility aids such as a walker or wheelchair. There is a growing need to update residential bathrooms to meet the evolving needs of older residents. Although there exist several aids and assistive devices intended to facilitate bathroom tasks, this can be hard for users and caregivers to navigate. This project was undertaken as part of a larger study funded by AFA Försäkring. The goal of this portion was to develop an inventory of currently-available bathroom assistance devices for use by residents and their family members, health care organizations, insurance agencies, and other stakeholders. The primary research question was: What type of bathroom assistive devices are currently available, either commercially or in prototype form, intended to assist users with the tasks of toileting, bathing, and handwashing?MethodologyThe primary method was web search and document review across several domains: regulations, assistive devices, and residential bathroom renovation examples. The first set of searches investigated the legislation and guidelines on bathroom design both for residential and healthcare settings; consistent and conflicting specifications were noted. The second set of searches was for assistive devices that could be used to facilitate bathing and toileting tasks in residential bathrooms. Examples of renovated residential bathrooms were solicited through authors’ networks.ResultsWhen it came to guidelines and specifications for bathroom design, there was substantial tension between the regulations set out by the Swedish Work Environment Authority and the National Board of Housing, Building and Planning. The inventory includes images of assistive devices as well as their main features: target task (bathing, toileting, personal care, handwashing), dimensions, weight ratings, colors, materials, store, website address, accessibility, and price. Documented assistive device categories include shower benches, toilet aids, support handles, showers, washbasins, taps, alarm buttons, contrast marks, and others, with approximately 20 examples for each.ConclusionsThis project developed an inventory of currently-available bathroom assistance devices, intended to inform users’ selection of devices for growing care needs in realistic (i.e. nonideal) settings. However, it is not the intention for the inventory represent an assessmentof the quality, safety, effectiveness, or usability of the devices. While it is hoped this list will represent the variety of available devices, it is also not intended to be exhaustive. Together with an introduction that includes the examples of renovated bathrooms, the inventory will be disseminated as a searchable web-based resource.
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| 33. |
- Rose, Linda, 1963-
(author)
-
Endurance and fatigue in eye-level work with low loads
- 2001
-
In: Advances in Occupational Ergonomics and Safety - 4. ; , s. 377-384
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The aim of this study was to investigate fatigue reactions in eye-level work with low loads. It consisted of two parts, each with eight men participating. A handle, placed at eye-level 0.5 m in front of the body, was pushed at three different loading levels, varying between 1 and 20 % of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC). Sustained contractions were performed a) until exhaustion at endurance time Tend during registra-tion of subjective ratings of discomfort/pain and resumption time Tres, and b) for two minutes during registration of mean power frequency, MPF, of the myoelectric signals (EMG) from the biceps brachii (BB), triceps brachii (TB), trapezius (TZ) and deltoideus (DD) muscles and subjective ratings of discomfort/pain. These parameters were also studied during the following recovery period.The higher the load, the shorter were the Tend and the following recovery period. Also, the Tres decreased with increasing load. The MPF increased in some cases and de-creased in others during the sustained contractions. The levels of decrease/increase in MPF differed for the different loading levels and the different muscles. The largest fa-tigue indications in MPF were in BB while the discomfort/pain originated from TB. TZ showed the smallest fatigue reactions.The results indicate that caution should be taken when developing and using models for estimating physical strain and fatigue based on EMG indications in low loading situations.
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| 34. |
- Rose, Linda, 1963-, et al.
(author)
-
Endurance, pain and resumption in fully flexed postures
- 2001
-
In: Applied Ergonomics. - 0003-6870 .- 1872-9126. ; 32:5, s. 501-508
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In this study effects of low loads in fully flexed postures were investigated. Thirteen men who were unused to the postures participated. Thirteen professional construction workers with long experience of suchlike postures were also studied. Pain reactions during and after loading were observed, as well as endurance time and the recovery process, here by studying the resumption time. Endurance and resumption times differed little from those given by models used for more common postures. Pain from the legs and not from the back limited the working ability in 86% of the endurance tests. Thirdly, the construction workers had significantly longer endurance time and shorter resumption time.
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| 35. |
- Rose, Linda, 1963-, et al.
(author)
-
Endurance time, pain and resumption in passive loading of the elbow joint
- 2000
-
In: Ergonomics. - : Taylor & Francis. - 0014-0139 .- 1366-5847. ; 43:3, s. 405-420
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This study investigated reactions in passively loaded, fully extended elbow joints in 13 men. Pain reactions during and after loading were studied, as were endurance time, T(end), and resumption time, Tr. The loading moment on the elbow joint, Mn, varied between 7 and 100% of maximum elbow moment. Discomfort/ pain was estimated with Borg's CR-10 scale. T(end) decreased with increasing load level. The opposite was found for the resumption time: the higher the load, held until T(end), the shorter the Tr. The pain limiting the working capability originated mainly from muscle tissue and not from the joint itself. It is concluded that the relation between load and endurance time for passively loaded, fully extended elbow joints resembles that for muscular loading in more 'normal' postures. Equations for estimation of endurance and resumption times (in minutes) for fully extended joints are proposed: T(end) = 20.6e(-6.04Mn) and Tr = 0.0167e(8.84/(1.46+0.346Mn)), respectively.
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| 36. |
- Rose, Linda, 1963-
(author)
-
Financial effects of suggested work environment improvements : Examples from applied Masters students’ projects
- 2022
-
In: 51st Nordic Ergonomics and Human Factors Society Conference 2022. ; , s. 235-242
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- It can be challenging to motivate decision-makers to invest in work environmentimprovements (WEIs). One success factor is to use the same vocabulary as companymanagement and express suggested WEIs in a way that management can understand and usein their decision-making. This paper has two objectives, to present: 1) examples of realorganisations’ ergonomics problems, suggestions for improvements and financial estimationsof effects of the suggested interventions, carried out by students in a Master’s course; 2)course-design features evaluated as important for this type of course. Results from six studentprojects, using several financial methods, are presented. The discussion focuses on the valueof increasing the availability of such a course, as well as competencies needed to be successfulinWEIs. In conclusion: by applied training as in this course, non-economists can rather rapidlylearn to assess ergonomics problems, and to develop, present and argue for suggestedsolutions, also with financial effect estimations.
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| 37. |
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| 38. |
|
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| 39. |
- Rose, Linda M., 1963-, et al.
(author)
-
Arbetsskador
- 2008. - 1:1
-
In: Arbete och teknik på människans villkor. - Stockholm : Prevent. - 9789173650373 ; , s. 613-634
-
Book chapter (pop. science, debate, etc.)
|
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| 40. |
- Rose, Linda M, 1963-, et al.
(author)
-
Beräkning av arbetsmiljöns ekonomiska effekter på företag och organisationer : En översikt av ett urval modeller och metoder
- 2007
-
Reports (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Dålig arbetsmiljö medför negativa effekter för individen, företaget och samhället. Det är väl känt att brister i arbetsmiljön påverkar hälsan negativt. Däremot är sambanden mellan arbetsmiljö och ekonomin i ett företag eller organisation mindre kända. Metoder för att koppla arbetsmiljö och ekonomi i företag har utvecklats och används som verktyg vid till exempel investeringsanalyser i samband med förbättringar av arbetsmiljön, men på många håll saknas det kunskaper om att sådana metoder existerar och hur de kan användas. Målet med denna översikt har varit att sammanställa information om metoder som kan användas för att bedöma arbetsmiljöns ekonomiska effekter på företag och organisationer. Utan att vara heltäckande har studien visat att det finns ett flertal metoder som kan användas för sådana bedömningar. De olika metoderna täcker olika behov och kan därför användas för olika ändamål. Ett urval av tio befintliga metoder har sammanställts och utvärderats med utgångspunkt i specifika frågeställningar. De metoder som sammanställts kan delas in i tre kategorier: i) metoder där riskanalyser samt beräkning av arbetsmiljöriskernas ekonomiska effekter ingår; ii); metoder för utarbetande och bedömning av åtgärdsförslag i kombination med investeringskalkyler och iii) rena investeringskalkylmetoder. Ett par metoder i sammanställningen faller utanför grupperingen. Vissa metoder har utvecklats eller anpassats för svenska förhållanden medan andra är mer generella. I rapporten diskuteras metodernas olika användningsområden, osäkerheter vid modellering och vid framtagning av indata. Dessutom ges rekommendationer för metodutveckling. En slutsats är att användandet av de befintliga metoderna skulle kunna stimuleras av mer detaljerad vägledning, speciellt för uppskattning av kostnader kopplade till produktivitet och kvalitet, samt exempelbanker med tillämpningar från olika typer av arbetssituationer och branscher. Därutöver bedöms utvecklingsbehovet främst vara modellering av samband mellan arbetsmiljöförhållanden och de faktorer som är starkt kopplade till ett företags resultat, såsom produktivitet och kvalitet.
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| 41. |
- Rose, Linda M., 1963-, et al.
(author)
-
Calculation of the economic effects of working environment at companies and organisations : A survey of existing methods
- 2007
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Methods to assess economic effects related to the work environment at companies and organizations are summarized and evaluated. Information was found in the open literature and by discussions with developers, researchers and end-users. The results show that several methods exist and an overview is presented here. Effects of uncertainties in the input data and the underlying assumptions are discussed. It is concluded that the application of the methods available would be stimulated by improved guidelines and by making a collection of case studies available in the public domain. Recommendations for future methodology development work are also given.
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| 42. |
- Rose, Linda M, 1963-, et al.
(author)
-
Designing Jobs in Manufacturing : Rest Allowances
- 2012
-
Conference paper (other academic/artistic)abstract
- The organization of work along a conventional production line layout has called for the consideration of both human (e.g., rest breaks, work pace) and technical factors, striving for the optimization of ergonomics and production. Linda Rose and Patrick Neumann discuss these issues in relation to muscle fatigue.
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| 43. |
- Rose, Linda M, 1963-
(author)
-
Developing RAMP 2.0 : for enhanced applicability
- 2019
-
In: PREMUS 2019 10th International Scientific Conference on the Prevention of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders. ; , s. 348-
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background:The RAMP package (Rose et al., 2018) consists of RAMP (RiskAssessment and Management tool for manual handling Proactively), a website (ramp.proj.kth.se) and a Professional Certificate Program consisting of three MOOCs (massive open online courses) on musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and the RAMPuse. RAMP, developed for managing risks in manual handling work, was launched 2017and has been disseminated to over 70 countries. In October 2018 the “RAMP 2.0”project started to meet requests from industries to i) expand the tools application range,ii) include key performance indicators (KPIs), and iii) provide a database version of the‘RAMP 2.0’. Here the current state of the project is presented.Methods:The project, using a participative, iterative methodology, is carried out in sevensteps ranging from a needs analysis and specification of requirements on the new toolto development and dissemination of a “RAMP 2.0”. The project is led by KTH andcarried out in cooperation between researchers and practitioners at companies.Results:This far eight organisations from five industrial branches (Manufacturing,Food, Dental Care Occupational Safety & Health, and Technical Installation industries)participated in a needs analysis, resulting in:i) a wish-list with additionally 20 types of work tasks to be included in the RAMP 2.0,e.g. electricians cable stripping and dentists’ drilling work,ii)suggestions of 16 KPIs, e.g. trends of Number of high risks, compared to Numberof low risks over several years andiii)15 characteristics considered important in the database-design and user interface,e.g. security and flexibility in results presentation.Conclusion: In conclusion, requirements on the RAMP 2.0 have been identified and willbe used as a basis in the development process.References:Rose, LM, Eklund, J & Nord Nilsson, L (2018) RAMP - A ComprehensiveMSD Risk Management Tool. In the Proceedings of the IEA Congress 2018, August 30,Florence, Italy.36.
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| 44. |
- Rose, Linda M., 1963-
(author)
-
Ergo-Index Slutrapport Etapp 1 : Resultat från litteraturstudie och försöksstudie
- 2008
-
Reports (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Målet med detta projekt är att vidareutveckla Ergo-Index modellen, som kan användas för att analysera olika sätt att utföra ett arbete på och välja det lämpligaste ur både belastningsergonomiska och produktionsekonomiska aspekter. I Etapp 1 sammanfattas i denna rapport. Här har målet varit att i) samla kunskap om sambanden mellan belastning, belastningstid och återhämtningsbehov samt risken för belastningsskador och ii) samla data som ger underlag för modellering av återhämtningsbehovet. Etapp 1 har till största delen finansierats av SBUF, Svenska Byggbranschens Utvecklingsfond, och till del av de medverkande organisationerna. En litteraturstudie baserad på främst databassökningar i Medline, Ergonomics Abstracts och Scopus genomfördes med huvudfokus på samband mellan belastningsnivå, belastningstid, återhämtningsbehov samt modeller inom detta område. En försöksstudie med 10 medverkande från rörbranschen som gjorde sammanlagt 160 försök genomfördes i syfte att få fram data om samband mellan belastningstid, belastningsnivå och återhämtningsbehov. I försöken tryckte de medverkande på ett handtag på en armlängds avstånd framför kroppen i ögonhöjd. Belastningsnivån och belastningstiden varierades mellan olika försök. Såväl subjektiva metoder, t ex skattningar enligt Borg’s CR-10 och RPE skala, som objektiva metoder som kraftmätning och tidtagning användes. Resultaten har bearbetats med statistiska metoder och regressionsanalys har använts för inledande modellering. Exponentiella samband bestämda genom kurvanpassning av försöksdata presenteras, såväl för uthållighetstid (funktion av belastningsnivå) som för återhämtningstid (funktion av belastningsnivå och relativ belastningstid). Högre belastningsnivåer leder till kortare uthållighetstider. Tiden för återhämtning efter belastning som pågått under en relativ belastningstid (fraktion av uthållighetstiden) minskar generellt med minskande belastning för att sedan öka igen vid låga belastningar. Återhämtningstiden är längre för belastningar motsvarande 10 % av maxkraften än vid 30 % vid relativ belastningstid. Sådana data har, enligt författarens kännedom, inte rapporterats tidigare. Däremot, om man normerar återhämtningstiden med reella belastningstiden tenderar denna kvot att vara konstant, vilket innebär att återhämtningstiden är proportionell mot belastningstiden, med olika proportionalitetskonstant för olika belastningsnivåer. Denna proportionalitet är tydligare för belastningscykel 1 än för cykel 2. Vidare visar resultaten att uthållighetstiden är kortare och återhämtningstiden längre vid en upprepad belastning, vilket indikerar att trötthet ackumuleras. Litteraturstudien har gett viktiga resultat exempelvis vad avser olika trötthetsmekanismer, olika typer av belastningssituationer, könsskillnader och psykosociala faktorer. Resultaten från både försöksstudien och litteraturstudien bidrar med viktig kunskap till den vidareutvecklingen av Ergo-Index modellen som kommer att utföras i projektets Etapp 2. I rapporten diskuteras vilka faktorer som bör inkluderas i den fortsatta modellutvecklingen.
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| 45. |
- Rose, Linda M, 1963-
(author)
-
Ergo-IndexEtapp 2 : Vidareutveckling av metod föranalys av produktionsmetoder – sambandmellan belastningsfaktorer, återhämtning, risk och produktionstid
- 2012
-
Reports (other academic/artistic)abstract
- This report describes the work with refinement of the Ergo-Index model, initially developed in the 1980’s by a group of researchers and practitioners. Ergo-Index is intended to enable comparison of different methods to perform a work task with the aim to support the choice of working methods to satisfy ergonomics requirements as well as requirements on time consumption and production economics. The outputs from the method are assessments of recovery need, production time and load level. The project has been carried out in two parts, of which this report deals with the second part.The objective has been to gain relevant information and to develop the Ergo-Index model further, especially regarding recovery, based on a literature review and an experimental study. In the experimental study maximum exerted forces as well as subjectively assessed Endurance and Resumption times for 15 different loading cases were determined with different load levels and loading times.The results revealed a previously unknown fatigue-load phenomenon, namely that the recovery need was found to be shortest, expressed in relative loading time, for a medium load level (30 % of max), compared to low (10 % of max) and high (50 % of max) load levels. This led to some unexpected difficulties in the project.After several rounds of modeling relations for endurance and recovery need, the new Ergo-Index was developed. This, partly performed by deriving at mathematical relationships via regression analysis and partly by using results from other published studies and also Swedish physical ergonomics legislation recommendations, is described in the report. Seven examples of applications of the model are also given. These form a start of a planned database where applied examples are gathered to facilitate the use of the method. These tasks were also evaluated with subjective methods by the participants, using Borg’s CR10 scale, a body map and interviews and photo- and video-documented. The new model should to be applied and evaluated more than has been done up until now, before it is spread to a large extent. Application and evaluation is planned with a couple of companies.The experimental results have also been used for developing a prediction model of perceived fatigue. Further, also based on the experimental study, where the working task was carried out with one repetition in two subsequent trials, a model for accumulation of fatigue is presented. Both these parts have not been tested or evaluated, but it is suggested to evaluate them in studies with applied repetitive working tasks. These results may also be used to form an enhanced recovery assessment model on occupational tasks for selection of working methods and job design from ergonomics and time perspectives for repetitive work.Issues regarding modeling, such as field of application and accuracy, are discussed. Dissemination of the results, to companies, in educations as well as in the research community, is also described.
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| 46. |
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| 47. |
- Rose, Linda M, 1963-, et al.
(author)
-
Ergonomic Evaluation of Utility Trucks with Yoyo Wheel Suspension
- 2004
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Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- It is often difficult to force obstacles with utility trucks. To facilitate this Yo-yo trucks have been developed and ergonomically evaluated. Three types of Yoyo utility trucks were compared with traditional ones. Subjective assessments, force measurements and photo documentation were used. The results show that the Yoyo trucks are experienced as easier to cross obstacles; lead to fewer jerks and are less strenuous. Further, the risks for sudden stops and dropping of the load decrease. The force to cross obstacles with the traditional trucks is between 34-142 % higher and significantly higher in all but one case. The conclusions are that Yoyo trucks are ergonomically advantageous, can be developed further and used in other applications.
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| 48. |
- Rose, Linda M., 1963-
(author)
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Ergonomics and its Consequences for Businesses
- 2011
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Conference paper (other academic/artistic)abstract
- As ergonomists, for many of us, a driving force is to improve work environments to “do good”: to reduce risks for injury and human suffering, improve working conditions and support human well-being. This motivation is in accordance with the first of the two objectives of ergonomics as in the IEA definition – ‘…to optimize human well-being and overall system performance”. However, ‘doing good’ in this sense can be difficult. A challenging task we face as ergonomists is to motivate work site improvements within a business environment that is focused on the second objective of ergonomics, overall system performance. Thus, the art of ergonomics lies in balancing the two – in addressing individual wellbeing as well as the broader goals of system performance. As part of this balancing act, displaying financial impacts of ergonomics plays an important role and is therefore the focus of this key-note.In all business activity decision makers have to choose between different investment options. For investments that can improve ergonomics, the full economic benefits are often difficult to quantify. Such benefits are associated with reduced costs related to non-optimal work environment. Visible costs, such as direct costs for absenteeism, are quite easily measured while hidden costs, related to business key parameters, such as productivity and quality issues, are often complex, contextually dependent and difficult to estimate. However, these issues are vital for organizations and such costs, which directly affect the company’s competitiveness, are often many times greater than the visible costs. If decision makers only are aware of the direct financial impact of investments they may prioritize solutions that are not optimal neither for organizational performance and business results nor for the work environment and health of the employees. In extreme cases this can jeopardize the company’s future.So, what is needed for informed decision-making? First, awareness that ergonomics also influences core business parameters and organizational performance is needed. Second, there is a need for user-friendly assessment tools to estimate the financial effects associated with workplace ergonomics. In the presentation a survey of existing assessment tools and methods is presented. Reasons why these tools aren’t more widely used are discussed. There is an increased call from companies for assessment tools that companies can use in their operational management to motivate and carry out ergonomic improvements. This is partly due to the need to form business cases to motivate investments. There is also an increased awareness from company management, who recognize that improved working environments also lead to other positive effects for the company. Increasingly managers seek knowledge for informed decision making, for example when prioritizing between work environment improvements and strategic corporate decisions. The assessment tools can be used i) proactively in the design of production systems, which leads to advantages for the staff as well as for the company’s performance, ii) reactively to evaluate different scenarios to reduce work environment, productivity and quality problems and iii) strategically for promoting the company.So, what actions are needed to improve these assessment tools, increase their use of and make them a natural part in the company operational processes? In this presentation some research and development suggestions are given. These involve tool as well as organizational and process development.In summary, working towards improved tools and their usage in striving towards the twofold ergonomics objective involves many challenges, but strengthens the possibilities to be successful in “doing good”, for individuals and organizations, as well as for societies.
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| 49. |
- Rose, Linda M, 1963-
(author)
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Ergonomics in product development : Fitting the tool to the woman (& the man)
- 2008
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Other publication (pop. science, debate, etc.)abstract
- How can ergonomics be used in development and design of products? In her seminar, Dr. Rose will explain the importance of ergonomics in product design and in the development of production methodology. In addition, she will describe how ergonomic aspects can be considered and integrated in the design process by applying methods tailored to achieving ergonomic targets. Case studies and examples from her long experience in product development in the Swedish construction industry will be presented.
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| 50. |
- Rose, Linda M, 1963-
(author)
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Ergonomisk utvärdering av materialvagnar med Yoyo hjul
- 2004
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Reports (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Denna rapport sammanfattar resultatet av projektet "Ergonomisk utvärdering av materialvagnar försedda med YOYO Technologies’ hjulupphängning "Z-axeln", så kallade Yoyo-vagnar. Det har genomförts på uppdrag av Johan Rosenquist, YOYO Technologies i ett samarbete med NCC. Det har finansierats av Svenska Byggbranschens Utvecklingsfond, SBUF. Målet med projektet har varit att göra en ergonomisk utvärdering av prototyper av tre olika typer av Yoyo-materialvagnar; fodervagnar, tegelvagnar och gipsvagnar. Utvärderingen har gjorts i samarbete med byggnadsarbetare som använt dels traditionella vagnar, dels nya Yoyo-vagnar. Semi-strukturerade intervjuer, en enkät baserad på Byggpiloternas frågefomulär på arbetsplatser samt Borg’s RPE-skala har använts. Dessutom har även en del av "Standardised Nordic Questionnaires for the Analysis of Musculo-skeletal Symptoms" använts samt kraftmätningar med dynamometer och fotodokumentation gjorts. Resultaten visar att Yoyo-vagnarna upplevs som lättare att köra över hinder. Fördelarna är att det krävs mindre kraft för att köra över hinder, t.ex. trösklar, och man får färre och mindre ryck än med traditionella vagnar. Det leder till mindre påfrestning på kroppen. Dessutom minskar risken att få tvärstopp på vagnen och att tappa lasten. Kraftmätningarna visar också att den erforderliga kraften för att köra över hinder är väsentligt högre med traditionella vagnar än med Yoyo-vagnar. Statistiskt signifikanta skillnader har påvisats i alla fall utom vid körning av fodervagn framåt över hinder. Kraften var i alla de andra fallen 34 –142 % högre med traditionella vagnar. För dem som använder materialvagnar en stor del av sin arbetstid bedöms Yoyo-vagnar medföra mindre risk att utveckla belastningsbesvär. En slutsats är att Yoyo-vagnarna är ergonomiskt sett fördelaktiga. En annan är att prototyperna som testats kan vidareutvecklas, främst vad gäller mjukhet i hjulen. Yoyo-hjul skulle också kunna vara fördelaktiga i andra tillämpningar, t.ex. pirror, skottkärror och sopvagnar.
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