Work posture - 506 entries found

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2000

CIS 00-1476 Mason S.
Health and Safety Executive
Musculoskeletal injuries from complex postures
The aim of this study was to identify factors which increase actual risks of injury in tasks which involve complex postures (non-symmetrical aspects of the handling such as twisting and turning or side bending, restricted headroom or work space, kneeling, one-handed lifting). 134 cases from personal injury claims which involving a musculoskeletal injury alleged to be the result of manual handling were analysed. Non-symmetrical handling involving twisting and turning, and to a lesser extent side bending, represent a significant proportion of the claims. Other risk factors are previous injury, size and shape of the load, time in the job and restricted workspace. The potential importance of psychosocial factors is discussed.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2000. vi, 61p. 39 ref. Price: GBP 15.00.

CIS 00-1475 Cutlip R., Hsiao H., Garcia R., Becker E., Mayeux B.
A comparison of different postures for scaffold end-frame disassembly
Overexertion and fall injuries comprise the largest category of nonfatal injuries among scaffold workers. This study was conducted to identify the most favourable scaffold disassembly techniques and evaluate the associated slip potential by measuring isometric strength capability and required coefficient of friction (RCOF) to reduce the incidence of injury. Forty-six male construction workers were used to study seven typical postures associated with scaffold disassembly. The isometric forces resulting form the seven postures were significantly different. Three of the disassembly postures resulted in considerable biomechanical stress to workers. The symmetric front-lift method with hand locations at knuckle height would be the most favourable posture; at least 93% of the subjects could handle the end frame with minimum overexertion risk. The static RCOF value resulting from this posture during the disassembly phase was less than 0.2, thus the likelihood of a slip should be low.
Applied Ergonomics, Oct. 2000, Vol.31, No.5, p.507-513. Illus. 13 ref.

CIS 00-1349 Kirkeskov Jensen L.K., Mikkelsen S., Pryds Loft I., Eenberg W.
Work-related knee disorders in floor layers and carpenters
To examine the relationship among knee-straining work, self-reported knee-complaints and physical signs of knee disorders, 133 floor layers, 506 carpenters and 327 compositors aged 26 to 72 years without previous acute knee traumas were surveyed in a cross-sectional study by means of a questionnaire. A random sample of the questionnaire responders, 67 floor layers, 127 carpenters and 101 compositors had independent double examinations for physical signs of knee disorders. Videotapes showed that knee-straining work constituted 56% of working time for floor layers, 26% for carpenters, and none for compositors. The prevalences of self-reported knee-complaints were positively associated with the amount of knee-straining work and were significantly different for the three trades. The clinical study showed a positive association for knee-straining work, hyperkeratosis and bursitis.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2000, Vol.42, No.8, p.835-842. 37 ref.

CIS 00-370
Health and Safety Executive
Manual handling solutions in woodworking
In the woodworking industry, manual handling causes approximately 30% of the work-related injuries each year. This guidance note gives practical solutions to manual handling problems in this sector. Topics covered include: handling timber treatment kegs; workbench height; handling of tooling; handling round timber, panels, planks; movement of assembled furniture and joinery; use of pneumatic nailing guns; inspection of pallets; feeding timber into roof-truss saws.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Mar. 2000. 12p. Illus. 9 ref.

CIS 00-445 Lacombe A.M.
Job study: Stagehand
Etude du poste de machiniste de théâtre [in French]
The job of stagehand is considered to be heavy work by employees themselves, with little employee turnover and few lost workdays. This study was conducted to assess the true workload of this job. It was based on heart rate monitoring and timed observation. The results showed that the job can be classified as "relatively heavy" according to strenuousness scoring tables and that the heavy physical workload is due to manual handling and work postures.
Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 2000, Vol.40 No.1, p.19-24. 5 ref.

1999

CIS 01-1678 Araszkiewirz G., Méry B., Tumerelle E., Hoornweg C., Colas des Francs G., Fuks J.J., Derriennic F.
Disc and lumbar hernia and work
Hernies discales et lombaires et travail [in French]
Undertaken by a group of occupational physicians, this case-control study investigates the relationship between work-induced strain and work organization and occurrences of intervertebral disc hernia (IDH) having required surgery or chemonucleolysis. It involved IDH 201 surgically-confirmed cases between 1995 and 1996 among a population of more than 60,000 workers employed in various occupations, as well as 201 controls. A questionnaire consisting of 124 questions was completed by the occupational physician during an interview. Statistical analysis of the data collected highlights the negative influence of work postures in the incidence of disk hernia, and in particular of postures involving the bending and rotating of the trunk and lifting of loads. Jolts and run-ups in the lifting of loads also show up as risk factors. IDH occurrences appear to be strongly linked to a medical history of lumbar conditions and to starting working life at a young age.
Documents pour le médecin du travail, 1st Quarter 1999, No.77, p.3-19. 43 ref.

CIS 01-1547 Brisson C., Montreuil S., Punnett L.
Effects of an ergonomic training program on workers with video display units
The effect of an ergonomic training programme for video display unit (VDU) users on their work posture and on the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders was evaluated. For both a study group that received the training and for a control group that did not, data were collected through direct observation of the workstations, self-administered questionnaires and a physical examination. The prevalence of the three postural stressors evaluated (twisted neck, inappropriate height of visual target, broken hand-wrist line) decreased in the experimental group after the training. In the control group, two of the three stressors decreased in frequency but to a lesser extent. Some of these beneficial changes were more frequent in workers under 40 years of age, for whom there was also a decrease in the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, June 1999, Vol.25, No.3, p.255-263. Illus. 34 ref.

CIS 01-1428 Meyer J.P., Flenghi D., Deschamps J.P.
Retrospective cross-sectional study: Lumbar pathology - Effects of manual handling, posture and exposure to vibration
Enquête transversale rétrospective: pathologie lombaire - Effets de la manutention manuelle, de la posture et de l'exposition aux vibrations [in French]
The objective of this study was to quantify the effects of occupational strain on the severity and frequency of back pain, as well as its consequences in terms of lost work days and medical treatment. The specificity of this study is to associate occupational strain with a detailed clinical classification of back pain based on data collected from interviews with workers. The study was carried out on a population of workers exposed to three types of strain which are generally accepted as representing risk factors for the lumbar column, namely manual handling, whole-body vibration and prolonged special postures. The age and body mass index of subjects are the individual characteristics most closely linked to back pain. Among women, periods of pain are most frequent among manual handlers or subjects exposed to prolonged special postures. Lost work days are significantly more frequent and prolonged among manual handling workers or those exposed to vibrations than among the reference population.
Documents pour le médecin du travail, 4th Quarter 1999, No.80, p.355-366. Illus. 26 ref.

CIS 01-900 Delleman N.J.
Working postures - Prediction and evaluation
This thesis describes determinants and evaluation criteria of working postures and examines data from the literature on the relationship between manual operations, working postures and workers' perceptions of the discomfort due to physical load. A posture prediction and evaluation tool, aimed at designers of workstations, are developed. Postures during sewing, data entry at computer screens, maintenance work (pneumatic wrenching, oxy-gas cutting, grinding) and work at metal presses are analysed.
Nico J. Delleman, Amstelveen, Netherlands, 1999. 227p. Illus. 171 ref.

CIS 01-586 Buckle P., Devereux J.
European Agency for Safety and Health at Work
Work-related neck and upper limb musculoskeletal disorders
A report on risk factors for work-related neck and upper limb musculoskeletal disorders (WRULDs) was prepared taking into account knowledge from an extensive set of sources. The sectors of activity most exposed to these risks include agriculture, forestry and fishing, manufacturing and mining industries, building, distribution (wholesale and retail) and repair, as well as hotels and restaurants. In terms of occupations, manual labourers, machine operators, secretaries and manual handlers are most at risk. Scientific studies provide solid evidence in favour of the biological causes of WRULDs; in particular, they show a close causal relationship between WRULDs and the performance of certain tasks. Risk factors requiring assessment and strategies for prevention are discussed.
Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, 1999. 114p. Illus. 209 ref. Price: EUR 7.00 (excluding VAT).

CIS 01-273 van Dieën J.H., Hoozemans M.J.M., Toussaint H.M.
Stoop or squat: A review of biomechanical studies on lifting technique
The squat technique is the most widely advised lifting technique to prevent low back pain. Biomechanical studies comparing the stoop and squat technique were systematically reviewed. Spinal compression as indicated by intra-discal pressure and spinal shrinkage appeared not significantly different between the two lifting techniques. Net moments and compression forces based on model estimates were found to be equal or somewhat higher in squat than in stoop lifting. Only when the load could be lifted from a position in between the feet did squat lifting cause lower net moments, although the studies reporting this finding had a marginal validity. Shear force and bending moments acting on the spine appeared lower in squat lifting. Net moments and compression forces during lifting reach magnitudes, that can probably cause injury, whereas shear forces and bending moments remained below injury threshold in both techniques. In conclusion, the biomechanical literature does not provide support for advocating the squat technique as a means of preventing low back pain.
Clinical Biomechanics, Dec. 1999, Vol.14, No.10, p.685-696. 116 ref.

CIS 00-1774 Lee Y.H., Chen C.Y.
Lumbar vertebral angles and back muscle loading with belts
The study examined effects of lumbar and pelvic belts on the change of lumbosacral angle (LSA) and back muscle activity in postures of standing, erect sitting and slump sitting. Eighteen healthy male subjects participated in this study. Though no significant belt effect was identified on the back muscle EMG, the radiographic data revealed an interactive effect of postures and belts on the change of LSA. In standing, the belts increased LSA. In erect sitting, the lumbar belt had no effect but the pelvic belt decreased LSA. While sitting slump with a trunk flexion of 15°, both belts increased LSA by restricting the movement of the pelvis. Belt effect on LSA was accompanied with a change of pelvic angle.
Industrial Health, Oct. 1999, Vol.37, No.4, p.390-397. Illus. 25 ref.

CIS 00-1773 Udo H., Fujimura M., Yoshinaga F.
The effect of a tilting seat on back, lower back and legs during sitting work
The purpose of the study was to examine the possible effects of a tilting seat on the back, lower back and legs. Ten healthy male subjects performed word-processing operations while sitting on a chair for one hour under two different seating conditions: rocking and fixed. At the end of the experiment, the subjects were asked to evaluate the two conditions with respect to localized fatigue and operational efficiency. There was no significant difference in lower leg swelling between the two conditions. The pain scores for the neck, shoulders, back and lower back were higher under the fixed condition, while those for the buttocks were higher under the rocking condition. There was a significant difference in the subjective evaluations of the two chairs. These findings suggest that the rocking condition, in contrast to the fixed seating condition, reduced back and lower back pain as a result of its tilting capability.
Industrial Health, Oct. 1999, Vol.37, No.4, p.369-381. Illus. 41 ref.

CIS 00-1474 Burt C.D.B., Henningsen N., Consedine N.
Prompting correct lifting posture using signs
The use of a symbol to prompt the adoption of correct lifting posture was examined in three studies. Study 1 used an Appropriateness Test to evaluate nine symbols designed to encourage the adoption of correct lifting posture. Four symbols met the appropriateness criteria and were tested for comprehension in Study 2. Study 3 examined the effect of the best performing symbol from Study 2 in a field setting which involved subjects lifting a small box. Results indicate significant increases in the adoption of the use of correct lifting posture when the symbol was present compared to a control condition. The study also identified the placement of a lifting criterion symbol onto packaging as a useful technique for communicating safety information.
Applied Ergonomics, Aug. 1999, Vol.30, No.4, p.353-359. Illus. 31 ref.

CIS 00-1471 Wu X., Rakheja S., Boileau P.E.
Distribution of human-seat interface pressure on a soft automotive seat under vertical vibration
Distribution of contact pressure and forces between sitting human subjects and a visco-elastic seat was experimentally investigated under conditions of vertical vibration. The human-seat interface pressure data acquired with a total of six subjects is analysed to illustrate the influence of magnitude and frequency of vibration excitations on the maximum ischium pressure, effective contact area and contact force distribution. The results are discussed to illustrate the influence of seated posture and the subject build on the contact force and area. Alternatively, the contour maps of static pressure distribution, and time histories of the ischium pressure and the effective contact area measured under vibration are compared with those determined while using a rigid seat. The results show that the maximum variations in the ischium pressure and the effective contact area on a soft seat occur near the resonant frequency of the coupled human-seat system (2.5-3.0Hz). The maximum ischium pressure and effective contact area on a softseat tend to increase considerably with increase in the magnitude of vibration excitation.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Sep. 1999, Vol.24, No.5, p.545-557. Illus. 16 ref.

CIS 00-1468 Pan C.S., Gardner L.I., Landsittel D.P., Hendricks S.A., Chiou S.S., Punnett L.
Ergonomic exposure assessment: An application of the PATH systematic observation method to retail workers
Biomechanical stressor variables in relation to job title, sex and back-belt status in 134 retail store workers were examined. A modification of the PATH (Postures, Activities, Tools, and Handling) systematic measurement method was employed. Analysis indicated that the frequencies of bent or twisted postures followed the pattern of unloaders > stockers > department managers. For weight handled per lift, lower, or carry, the pattern was unloaders > department managers > stockers. The mean lifting frequencies per hour were 35.9 for department managers, 48.8 for stockers and 137.4 for unloaders. Back-belt-wearing percentages were higher for unloaders (63%) compared with stockers (48%) and department managers (25%). Back-belt-wearing workers had higher levels of stressor variables, including arm position, twisting, weight handled and number of lifts per hour. The method is applicable in studies that require crude distinctions among stressor variables but which may be sufficient when implementing intervention studies and control strategies for many material-handling-intensive jobs.
International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, Apr.-June 1999, Vol.5, No.2, p.79-87. 29 ref.

CIS 00-1176 Pavlovsky B., Dalichau S., Elliehausen H.J., Perrey R.M.
Effectiveness of work-related back posture training of apprentices in the construction industry
Nachweis der Wirksamkeit eines berufsbezogenen Rückentrainings für Auszubildende im Bauhandwerk [in German]
The effectiveness of apprentice training in ergonomic body postures in the building industry was investigated. The study participants comprised 63 apprentices who participated in a posture training programme and two groups of 43 and 39 apprentices who were trained in the traditional way. Muscular endurance of the arm according to Mattias were determined before and after the school year. In the trained group, a significant reduction of evasive movements of thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis and pelvis was observed. A questionnaire on heath status, ergonomic knowledge and implementation at the workplace was also evaluated. The results confirm the success of the posture training programme in vocational schools.
Ergo-Med, Sep.-Oct. 1999, Vol.23, No.5, p.229-235. Illus. 22 ref.

CIS 00-1166 Das B., Kozey J.W.
Structural anthropometric measurements for wheelchair mobile adults
Structural anthropometric measurements for males and females were determined for wheelchair-mobile adults. A photogrammetry methodology was used to obtain the measurements. The various subject demographics including age, level or type of dysfunction as well as the specified anthropometric dimensions of the wheelchair-mobile subjects were identified. The data are useful for the design of industrial workstations for wheelchair-mobile adults. Present workstation design principles based on seated able-bodied anthropometric measurements would not be suitable for this population.
Applied Ergonomics, Oct. 1999, Vol.30, No.5, p.385-390. 9 ref.

CIS 00-1162 Kleine B.U., Schumann N.P., Brandl I., Grieshaber R., Scholle H.C.
Surface EMG of shoulder and back muscles and posture analysis in secretaries typing at visual display units
Female office workers typed texts spoken from tape during three 1-h-long sessions. EMG was recorded from the erector spinae, trapezium, deltoid and sternocleidomastoid muscles. Root mean square (RMS) and power spectrum median frequency of the EMG were calculated. The normalized RMS of the left and right trapezium muscle increased, while the median frequency did not change. The increase of the normalized RMS was significantly lower when the linear influence of posture was excluded. On average, the distance between C7 and the left and right acromion decreased within each working an hour. C7 became lower on average by 5.5mm within an hour, whereas the acromions became lower by only 1.7mm (left) and 3.3mm (right). The increase in trapezium muscle activity was partly related to a lifting of the shoulders to compensate a slight slumping of the back. The EMG activity increase is also attributed to fatigue, to attention-related activity or to both. Training of the back muscles and a varied organisation of work might have a preventive effect with respect to musculoskeletal complaints in VDU workers.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Sep. 1999, Vol.72, No.6, p.387-394. Illus. 53 ref.

CIS 00-1134 Bovenzi M., Hulshof C.T.J.
An updated review of epidemiologic studies on the relationship between exposure to whole-body vibration and low back pain (1986-1997)
In a systematic database search, several epidemiologic studies of low back pain (LBP) disorders and occupations with exposure to whole-body vibration (WBV) were retrieved and evaluated according to criteria concerning the assessment of vibration exposure, assessment of health effects and methodology. A meta-analysis was also conducted in order to combine the results of independent epidemiologic studies. The findings of the selected studies and the results of the meta-analysis of both cross-sectional and cohort studies showed that occupational exposure to WBV is associated with an increased risk for LBP, sciatic pain and degenerative changes in the spinal system, including lumbar intervertebral disc disorders. Owing to the cross-sectional design of the majority of the reviewed studies, this epidemiologic evidence is not sufficient to outline a clear exposure-response relationship between WBV exposure and LBP disorders. It is also concluded that research design and the quality of exposure and health effect data in the field of WBV have improved in the last decade.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Sep. 1999, Vol.72, No.6, p.351-365. Illus. 69 ref.

CIS 00-1178 Wiktorin C., Vinård E., Mortimer M., Pernold G., Wigaeus-Hjelm E., Kilbom Å., Alfredsson L.
Interview versus questionnaire for assessing physical loads in the population-based MUSIC-Norrtälje study
To identify risk and health factors for low back and neck/shoulder disorders, a case-referent study was conducted. The interview concerned "a typical working day" during the preceding 12 months and comprised assessment of energy expenditure, work postures and manual materials handling for work and leisure time, including regular sport activities. The self-administered questionnaire comprised 18 questions. The correlation between interview and questionnaire responses among the referents was high for time spent "sitting at work", "VDU work", and work-related "motor vehicle driving", moderate for work-related "hands above shoulder level", and "hands below knee level" and lower for leisure time activities such as "domestic work", "time for own activities", and "sitting during leisure time". Non-differential misclassification was present in all questions, which will attenuate observed estimates of the relative risk. Even though interview data are preferable, questionnaire data may be useful for assessing well-defined work tasks and for "sitting at work".
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, May 1999, Vol.35, No.5, p.441-455. Illus. 42 ref.

CIS 00-869 Jäger M., Luttmann A., Jordan C., Laurig W.
Whole-shift field studies of the load on the lumbar spine during occupational manual materials handling
Ganzschichtige Feldstudien zur Belastung der Lendenwirbelsäule bei berufsbedingten Lastenhandhabungen [in German]
Full-shift studies of the body postures of eight workers in bricklaying, drop forging, industrial meat processing and garbage collection were performed by video recording, and evaluated for the manual forces and spinal loads involved. Lumbar-load indicators were developed and used for biomechanical model calculations. Recommended limits of lumbar load (disc compression) were found frequently to be exceeded. The highest disc compression values were estimated for bricklaying and meat processing. High peak values of disc compression also occur in garbage collection. The lumbar load values were considerably higher than those recommended by NIOSH.
Zeitschrift für Arbeitswissenschaft, Aug. 1999, Vol.53, No.2, p.68-79. Illus. 32 ref.

CIS 00-572 Marklin R.W., Simoneau G.G., Monroe J.F.
Wrist and forearm posture from typing on split and vertically inclined computer keyboards
A study was conducted on 90 experienced office workers to determine how commercially available alternative computer keyboards affected wrist and forearm posture. The alternative keyboards tested had the QWERTY layout of keys and were of three designs: split fixed angle, split adjustable angle and vertically inclined. When set up correctly, commercially available split keyboards reduced mean ulnar deviation of the right and left wrists from 12° to within 5° of a neutral position compared with a conventional keyboard. The finding that split keyboards place the wrist closer to a neutral posture in the radial/ulnar plane substantially reduces one occupational risk factor of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs): ulnar deviation of the wrist.
Human Factors, Dec. 1999, Vol.41, No.4, p.559-569. Illus. 20 ref.

CIS 00-262 Stål M., Hansson G.Å., Moritz U.
Wrist positions and movements as possible risk factors during machine milking
Positions and movements of the wrist during machine milking in both tethering and loose-housing systems were studied in 11 healthy female milkers. High values of dorsiflexion and radial deviation were found, which might induce an increased risk of carpal-tunnel syndrome. Velocity and repetitiveness were close to the values described in repetitive work with a high risk of elbow and hand disorders in the fish-processing industry and giro-form data entry work. The load on the upper extremities increased with respect to dorsiflexed hand position and repetitiveness when milking in the modern loose-housing milking system. This is probably due to the change of the working position and/or the higher productivity (number of cows milked per time unit) in the loose-housing system as compared to the old-fashioned tethering system. These negative effects on wrist positions and movements should be considered when building new milking systems.
Applied Ergonomics, Dec. 1999, Vol.30, No.6, p.527-533. Illus. 26 ref.

CIS 00-283 Torén A., Öberg K.
Maximum isometric trunk muscle strength and activity at trunk axial rotation during sitting
The twisted posture characteristic of drivers of agricultural tractors working in the field was studied. The relationship of trunk axial strength and muscle activity to trunk twisting angle of prerotation was determined and quantified. Differences between tractor drivers and office workers, and between the two directions of twisting action were also studied. Nine male tractor drivers and nine male office workers performed isometric maximum efforts at about -40, -20, 0, 20 and 40° of pre-set trunk twisting angles in both the clockwise and counterclockwise directions. Results showed that the subjects could exert the greatest torques when prerotated in the opposite direction and the lowest torques when prerotated in the same direction to the direction of exertion. The exerted torques were within the range of 65-145Nm. There were large differences in activity of various muscles due to the twisting direction and to prerotation angle.
Applied Ergonomics, Dec. 1999, Vol.30, No.6, p.515-525. Illus. 16 ref.

CIS 00-282 Sporrong H., Sandsjö L., Kadefors R., Herberts P.
Assessment of workload and arm position during different work sequences: A study with portable devices on construction workers
The muscular engagement and postures of construction workers undertaking ceiling fitting were measured, and the results compared to those of laboratory studies. Two ambulatory devices were used, one to record electromyographic (EMG) signals bilaterally from the trapezium muscle, and the other to record the position of both arms and back. Results show that the work was mostly performed in an upright position, that both arms were used to a similar amount and that the workers for a large proportion of their working time had their upper arms at levels that are considered harmful in view of shoulder load. The EMG data showed that nearly 50% of the work was spent with trapezium activity that exceeded that of the reference contraction used and that only 10% of time was spent in muscular rest. It was concluded that the exposure of construction workers undertaking ceiling fitting meets the criteria formulated on the basis of laboratory experiments with respect to a high risk of chronic shoulder pain due to rotator cuff tendinitis.
Applied Ergonomics, Dec. 1999, Vol.30, No.6, p.495-503. Illus. 30 ref.

CIS 00-281 Mortimer M., Hjelm E.W., Wiktorin C., Pernold G., Kilbom Å., Vingård E.
Validity of self-reported duration of work postures obtained by interview
The aim of the study was to validate interview data on the duration of four work postures: 1) sitting; 2) standing/walking with hands above shoulder level; 3) standing/walking with hands between shoulder and knuckle level; and 4) standing/walking with hands below knuckle level. The self-reported time spent in each posture was compared to that observed and measured in 20 subjects during two full working days. Linear relationships between self-reports and observations were strong for sitting, hands above shoulder level, and hands below knuckle level. Results show that the interview model makes it easy for respondents to comprehend different descriptions of work postures and for the subjects to assess duration of respective work postures. Thus, interview data concerning time per day spent in sitting, standing/walking with hands above shoulder level and standing/walking with hands below knuckle level may be accurate enough for studying related health effects in epidemiological studies.
Applied Ergonomics, Dec. 1999, Vol.30, No.6, p.477-486. Illus. 20 ref.

CIS 00-270 Kreczy A., Kofler M., Gschwendtner A.
Underestimated health hazard: Proposal for an ergonomic microscope workstation
Working daily for a long time with a standard microscope causes back pain, fibromyalgia, or tension headache in up to 80% of microscopists. These complaints may be prevented by an ergonomic design of the microscope workstation, leading to a beneficial and significant reduction of electromyographical activity in the most strained muscle groups as shown by surface electromyographic recordings.
Lancet, Nov. 1999, Vol.354, No.9191, p.1701-1702. Illus. 5 ref.

CIS 99-2080 Delisle A., Gagnon M., Desjardins P.
Kinematic analysis of footstep strategies in asymmetrical lifting and lowering tasks
Two footstep strategies associated with expert workers and two associated with novice workers were studied for lifting and lowering a 12kg box. Kinematic variables, L5/S1 resultant moments and body postures of eight healthy male subjects were used to analyse the effects of the footstep strategies. A tridimensional dynamic rigid body model was used to estimate L5/S1 resultant moment, using inertial forces to estimate external forces. Results showed that expert strategies either reduced the path of the subject's centre of gravity or reduced the asymmetry of posture at deposit. The footstep strategies showed no consistent effect on L5/S1 resultant moment. The use of different footstep strategies might be aimed at different goals, which may depend on the context. On the one hand, the reduction in the path of the subject's centre ofgravity might represent a mean to reduce the effort required and avoid fatigue, which might be appropriate in some circumstances. On the other hand, the reduction of asymmetry of posture at deposit might be more appropriate in other circumstances. Topics: body mechanics; box handling; coordination of movements; ergonomic evaluation; fatigue; foot; manual lifting; motion study; repetitive strain injury; standing posture.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Mar. 1999, Vol.23, No.5-6, p.451-460. Illus. 20 ref.

CIS 99-2078 Lee Y.H., Her L.L., Tsuang Y.H.
A comparison of sitting posture adaptations of pregnant and non-pregnant females
The postural differences between seated pregnant and non-pregnant women were studied, and the effects of various sitting workstation designs were assessed. Five pregnant and five non-pregnant women participated in this study. The experimental variables were the table-chair-vertical-distance and the seat-inclination-angle. The seated working postures of the last 10min of a 50min sitting session were videotaped and analyzed using a 2D motion analysis system. Postural differences were observed between the pregnant and non-pregnant groups which may be attributed to the changes and/or mechanisms associated with pregnancy. The increased size of the abdomen requires more room in front of the body; in the pregnant women this was obtained by holding the upper-arm further from the body, inclining the upper trunk more anterior, and extending the hip more. A seat with a sloping angle of 10° was found to reduce the biomechanical loading on the lower back and in subjective ratings from both groups, was preferred over the other seat angles. Topics: anthropometry; comfort assessment; expectant mothers; posture recording; seats; sitting posture; tables; upper extremities; women; workplace design.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Mar. 1999, Vol.23, No.5-6, p.391-396. Illus. 14 ref.

CIS 99-1720 Milburn P.D., Barrett R.S.
Lumbosacral loads in bedmaking
The effect of bed size and bed height on the physical stress of employees responsible for room cleaning and bedmaking in the hospitality industry was investigated. Results confirmed the view that static models severely underestimate the loads on the lumbar spine under inertial lifting conditions. They also indicated that: 1) tasks with the greatest hand loads were not necessarily associated with the greatest spinal loads due to differences in the way each task was performed; 2) loads produced during bedmaking may exceed recommended safe lifting limits for certain task-size-height combinations; and 3) the use of larger and heavier beds in the hospitality industry imposes increased loads on the lumbar spine. Topics: bending posture; body mechanics; dynamic muscular work; ergonomic evaluation; hotel industry; job study; measurement of load on joints; measurement of load on muscles; static muscular work; women.
Applied Ergonomics, June 1999, Vol.30, No.3, p.263-273. Illus. 46 ref.

CIS 99-1719 Kayis B., Hoang K.
Static three-dimensional modelling of prolonged seated posture
Prolonged seating can cause musculoskeletal problems in the long term if poor postures are adopted. A three-dimensional static model of the body to calculate the intervertebral disc compression at the fifth lumbar disc was built. SAMMIE, a computer aided ergonomics package was used for modelling a computer operator workstation and determination of joint centre locations and joint angles in a seated posture. Experimentation was also performed to determine the body-mass distribution on the seat used. No significant difference between male and female body-mass distribution was found. The static model found that postures with the seat pan and backrest reclined predicted the lowest disc compression. Postures in which the operator was bent forwards gave the highest disc loadings. Topics: body mechanics; computer simulation; computer terminals; ergonomic evaluation; mathematical models; sitting posture.
Applied Ergonomics, June 1999, Vol.30, No.3, p.255-262. Illus. 42 ref.

CIS 99-1715 Burgess-Limerick R., Shemmell J., Scadden R., Plooy A.
Wrist posture during computer pointing device use
Individual differences in wrist postures adopted during the use of two pointing devices (mouse and trackball) were examined. Wrist flexion/extension and radial/ulnar deviation were measured while twelve participants completed two standardized tasks involving horizontal and vertical cursor movements respectively. Exposure to extreme ulnar deviation and wrist extension was observed in the use of computer mouse and trackball. The trackball involved decreased ulnar deviation and increased wrist extension, however considerable individual differences were observed. Some users may be placed at risk of injury by prolonged exposure to the use of such devices, while others may not. A trackball may reduce the exposure to extreme ulnar deviation, but in some cases, a trackball may increase exposure to extreme wrist extension. Topics: body mechanics; computer terminals; ergonomic evaluation; ergonomics; individual susceptibility; man-computer interfaces; musculoskeletal diseases; repetitive strain injury; upper extremity disorders; work posture; wrist lesions; wrist.
Clinical Biomechanics, May 1999, Vol.14, No.4, p.280-286. Illus. 11 ref.

CIS 99-1366 Courtney A.J., Chan H.S.
Ergonomics of grab unloaders for bulk materials handling
An ergonomic study of operator cabs for grab unloaders is presented. The results demonstrated that the drivers adopted poor postures, partially owing to the basic geometry of the situation and partially because they used only the central lower front window for downward vision and control boxes obstructed vision. These problems have been exacerbated by introducing extremely large bulk carriers that have a wider hold than the previous ships used. Topics: angle of vision; backache; bulk materials handling; drivers cabs; drivers seats; drivers; ergonomics; loaders; loading and unloading equipment; neck disorders; physical fatigue; ship holds; work posture.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Jan. 1999, Vol.23, No.1-2, p.61-66. Illus. 6 ref.

CIS 99-1361 Burgess-Limerick R., Plooy A., Fraser K., Ankrum D.R.
The influence of computer monitor height on head and neck posture
The influence of "eye level" and "low" monitor locations on the head and neck posture of subjects performing a word processing task was investigated. Lowering the monitor to a position 18° below eye level had no significant effect on the position of the neck relative to the trunk, while mean flexion of the head relative to the neck increased by 5°. In the "eye level" condition the mean gaze angle was 17° below the eye-ear line, and in the "low" condition the average gaze angle was 25° below the eye-ear line. Lowering the monitor thus allows gaze angles closer to that preferred (somewhere between 35° and 44° below the eye-ear line) to be adopted. This suggests that recommendations of the "top of monitor at eye height" type must be questioned. Topics: angle of vision; computer terminals; CRT display terminals; design of equipment; ergonomic evaluation; man-computer interfaces; motion study; visual comfort; work posture.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Mar. 1999, Vol.23, No.3, p.171-179. Illus. 21 ref.

CIS 99-1360 Karlqvist L., Bernmark E., Ekenvall L., Hagberg M., Isaksson A., Rostö T.
Computer mouse and track-ball operation: Similarities and differences in posture, muscular load and perceived exertion
Posture, muscular load, perceived exertion, preference and productivity were investigated in 20 healthy VDU-operators during text editing with two different data input devices, a mouse and a track-ball. Arm support reduced muscle activity in the neck/shoulder region irrespective of the input device used. A table height lower than 3cm above elbow height allowed arm and shoulder support without undue shoulder elevation. Work with the track-ball entailed more wrist extension than work with the mouse. Perceived exertion ratings were lower for the shoulder and higher for the hand with track-ball than with mouse operation. Women elevated and rotated the right shoulder outwards more often than men during work with both input devices. Electromyography results showed higher activity among the women than among the men in two of the examined muscles. This may relate to anthropometric differences which influence biomechanical load moments or to the observed differences in working techniques between men and women. Topics: computer terminals; design of equipment; ergonomic evaluation; forearm rotation; man-computer interfaces; measurement of load on muscles; muscle contractor activity; muscular work; physical workload; sex-linked differences; upper extremities; work posture.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Mar. 1999, Vol.23, No.3, p.157-169. Illus. 26 ref.

1998

CIS 02-1162 Do you know the right way of working with visual display units (VDU)?
Work at visual display units (VDUs) may give rise to eyestrain and muscular pain of the back, neck, arm, shoulders and wrists. This information leaflet provides guidance on ergonomic principles to be applied in VDU workstation design and work practices. Contents: checklist of workstation features (screen, keyboard, mouse, chair, table size); position of the VDU; glare prevention; lighting; work practices; work posture; medical examinations.
Ministry of Manpower, Occupational Health Department, 18 Havelock Road #05-01, Singapore 059764, Republic of Singapore, 1998. 6p. Illus.

CIS 01-1698 Arokoski J.P.A., Nevala-Puranen N., Danner R., Halonen M., Tikkanen R.
Occupationally oriented medical rehabilitation and hairdressers' work techniques - A one-and-a-half year follow-up
This study examined changes in work techniques and musculoskeletal symptoms after occupationally oriented medical rehabilitation arranged for 21 female hairdressers who were experiencing neck-shoulder or back pain but were still able to work. Analyses of working postures and questionnaire data were obtained at the beginning of the courses and a year-and-a-half later. The participants worked with their back bent and twisted or their arms at or over shoulder level more seldom at the end of the follow-up than at the beginning of the rehabilitation. Subjective work-related physical and mental strain had decreased by 45.4% and 27.1%, respectively, and subjective neck and back pain by 40.0% and 45.3%, respectively. This study suggests that occupationally oriented rehabilitation can have significant long-lasting effects on the work techniques and subjective well-being of rehabilitated persons.
International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 1998, Vol.4, No.1, p.43-56. Illus. 25 ref.

CIS 01-1847 Wick H.S., Bloswick D.S.
Use of ergonomics as a quality improvement tool in a manual assembly task
The purpose of this study was to identify the relationship between the design characteristics of a manually-assembled product, exposure to work-related ergonomic risk factors, and improvement in product quality. Postural data, surface EMG data, and quality statistics were collected from 10 operators performing four 10-min repetitive manual assembly tasks with plastic threaded nuts, bolts, flat parts and open-box parts. Unobstructed accessibility of manually-assembled parts was associated with decreased exposure to awkward trunk posture, decreased activity of the wrist flexors and extensors, increased frequency of repetitive motion, and a decrease in the tendency to attach parts too loosely. Accessibility had no effect on misalignment defects as measured. Part guidance decreased the number of parts attached too tightly and aided in increasing the rate of assembly of parts when there was unobstructed access to parts.
International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 1998, Vol.4, No.1, p.19-42. Ilus. 20 ref.

CIS 01-1254 Babirat D., Küchmeister G., Nagel K.
Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin
Human body measurements - Range of comfort of joint angles
Körpermasse des Menschen - Komfortbereich der Gelenkwinkel der Körpergelenke [in German]
Topics: anthropometry; comfort assessment; ergonomics; human experiments; motion study; posture recording; work posture.
Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 1998. iv, 131p. Illus. 68 ref.

CIS 01-1245 Vedder J., Krüger J., Laurig W.
Assessment of body postures under strain in a yarn spinning mill by an evaluation technique based on video recording
Ermittlung belastender Körperhaltungen mit einem Haltungsbewertungsverfahren in einer Garnspinnerei auf der Basis von Videoaufnahmen [in German]
Workers in a fibre spinning plant complained of musculo-skeletal disorders. A videorecording-based load analysis was performed in order to investigate the problem. Possibly hazardous postures were noted, which may be related to the inadequate design of the spinning machines and of a handling device. Answers to a questionnaire survey revealed a high frequency of pain and other disorders in all body regions, but particularly of the lower back. It is difficult to establish a direct correlation between the observed postures and the health complaints, however. The application of videorecordings for the observation of working postures proved to be a practical method for a workplace setting.
Zeitschrift für Arbeitswissenschaft, May 1998, Vol.52, No.1, p.15-21. Illus. 28 ref.

CIS 01-776 Meyer J.P., Flenghi D., Deschamps J.P.
Effects of manual handling, posture, and whole body vibrations on low-back pain
To determine the effect of occupational stress on low-back pain (LBP), workers exposed to 3 kinds of stress, manual handling (MH, 82 women and 264 men), whole body vibration (WBV, 274 men) and static postures (278 women), were interviewed. Anthropometric data, occupational stress, LBP severity and frequency and a psychological evaluation of these groups were compared with those of a control population of 104 men and 104 women. The results show age and the body mass index of the workers were the parameters most closely associated with LBP. Women involved in MH had higher frequency and severity of LBP than their reference population. Men involved in MH or exposed to WBV had higher frequency of painful episodes than their reference population. Workers exposed to one of the stresses were on sick leave with LBP more often, and for longer periods, than workers in the reference group. Individual factors are often decisive in the onset of LBP, but occupational stress can be an aggravating factor for serious LBP cases.
International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 1998, Vol.4, No.4, p.449-470. Illus. 22 ref.

CIS 00-1778 Henry S.C., Estryn-Behar M., Personne de Chalex M., Guenane L., Fatmi S.
Ergonomic evaluation of three floor cleaning techniques
Observation ergonomique du lavage des sols selon trois techniques [in French]
Topics: cleaning; domestic and related helpers, cleaners; ergonomic evaluation; ergonomics; evaluation of equipment; evaluation of technique; flooring; France; heavy work; questionnaire survey; work posture.
Documents pour le médecin du travail, 2nd Quarter 1998, No.74, p.125-130. Illus. 5 ref.

CIS 00-1776 Chaves L.D.
Lifting of weights and its impact on the muscle-ligament system
Levantamento de peso e seu impacto no sistema músculo-ligamentar [in Portuguese]
This article analyses the work cycle of two workers whose task involves placing 80kg drums containing a chemical product on a hand truck and to transport them to a mixing equipment unit, into which the product has to be poured. The whole cycle lasts 2 hours and involves the lifting of a total weight of approx. 3,400kg. Analysis of movements show an important load on coxofemoral, knee, ankle, shoulder and trunk joints, as well as postures which could induce low back pain and lumbar disc degeneration.
Revista CIPA, Sep. 1998, Vol.19, No.226, p.58-66. Illus. 3 ref.

CIS 00-1515 Order No.973 of 1 Dec. 1998 of the Minister of Labour and Social Policy on occupational safety and hygiene in places of work equipped with computer screens [Poland]
Rozporządzenie Ministra Pracy i Polityki Socjalnej z dnia 1 grudnia 1998 r. w sprawie bezpieczeństwa i higieny pracy na stanowiskach wyposażonych w monitory ekranowe [in Polish]
Topics: angle of vision; computer terminals; CRT display terminals; ergonomic evaluation; law; Poland; visual comfort; work posture.
Dziennik Ustaw, 10 Dec. 1998, No.148, p.5392-5394.

CIS 00-1769 Punnett L.
Ergonomic stressors and upper extremity disorders in vehicle manufacturing: Cross sectional exposure-response trends
To evaluate the association between upper extremity soft tissue disorders and exposure to preventable ergonomic stressors in vehicle manufacturing operations, a cross-sectional study was conducted in a vehicle stamping and an engine assembly plant. A standardized physical examination of the upper extremities was performed on all subjects. An interviewer-administered questionnaire obtained data on demographics, work history, musculoskeletal symptoms, non-occupational covariates, and psycho-physical ratings of ergonomic stressors. The prevalence of symptom disorders was 22% for the wrists or hands and 15% for the shoulders or upper arms; cases defined on the basis of a physical examination were about 80% as frequent. Disorders of the upper extremities, shoulders, and wrists or hands all increased markedly with exposure score, after adjustment for plant, acute injury, sex, body mass index, systemic disease and seniority. The exposure-response trend was very similar for symptom cases and for physical examination cases.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, June 1998, Vol.55, No.6, p.414-420. Illus. 45 ref.

CIS 00-1010 Vitry-Henry L., Vitry F., Jolly D., Deschamps F.
Occupational periarticular diseases: Relationship between posture and pathology
Les affections périarticulaires d'origine professionnelle: lien entre postures et pathologies [in French]
Topics: basic metal industries; building industry; bursitis; carpal-tunnel syndrome; cross-sectional study; epicondylitis; foundries; joint diseases; musculoskeletal diseases; periarthritis; repetitive strain injury; shoulder; textile industry; work posture.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, Nov. 1998, Vol.59, No.7, p.492-496. Illus. 17 ref.

CIS 00-567 Maltais C., Dansereau J., Lacoste M.
Variability of geometric and mechanical measurements on wheelchair users
Mesure de la variabilité des paramètres géométriques et mécaniques de la position des personnes en fauteuil roulant [in French]
A measurement method was developed to describe and quantify the handicapped user's 3D position in his wheelchair. Pre-defined landmarks are digitized with an articulated mechanical arm. To quantify the pressure distribution, a system composed of sensors is used on the seat and the back of the wheelchair. In this method, different types of errors contribute to modify the geometric and mechanical measurements. The purpose of this study is to evaluate these errors and their impact on the precision of the various parameters on a sample group of five non-handicapped subjects. The variability of most of the geometric parameters was <2° where the sagittal rotation of the pelvis (3.8°) showed the highest variability and the thigh angle (0.5°) the lowest. The lowest variability of the mechanical parameters was obtained for the average pressure and pressure gradient measurements. It was confirmed that the geometric and mechanical measurement method presented in this paper is a non-invasive, simple and accurate procedure for seating evaluation.
Travail et santé, June 1998, Vol.14, No.2, p.S-12-S-16. Illus. 7 ref.

CIS 00-267 Turville K.L., Psihogios J.P., Ulmer T.R., Mirka G.A.
The effects of video display terminal height on the operator: A comparison of the 15° and 40° recommendations
Standard workplace design recommendation is to position the centre of video display terminals (VDTs) 15° below horizontal eye level. Recently a viewing angle of 40° below horizontal has been suggested for visually intensive tasks. The goal of this study was to investigate the effects of these two VDT positions on muscular activity, muscular fatigue, head/neck posture, visual acuity, operator performance, heart rate and operator subjective assessment. The experimental task consisted of reading text from a computer screen and answering reading comprehension questions using a mouse and a keyboard. The 40° VDT position showed significantly greater head tilt angles and higher muscle activity levels for six of the 10 neck, shoulder and back muscles sampled. No significant differences in visual acuity, operator performance or heart rate were detected as a result of monitor location. Seven of the 12 subjects preferred the 15° monitor position.
Applied Ergonomics, Aug. 1998, Vol.29, No.4, p.239-246. Illus. 35 ref.

CIS 99-1727 Ergonomic requirements for office work with visual display terminals (VDTs) - Part 5: Workstation layout and postural requirements
Exigences ergonomiques pour travail de bureau avec terminaux à écrans de visualisation (TEV) - Partie 5: Aménagement du poste de travail et exigences relatives aux postures [in French]
Topics: anthropometry; CRT display terminals; equipment layout; ergonomics; ISO; office work; sitting posture; standard; standing posture; work posture; workplace design.
International Organization for Standardization, Case postale 56, 1211 Genève 20, Switzerland, 1 Oct. 1998. v, 25p. Illus. 2 ref.

CIS 99-1714 Estill C.F., Kroemer K.H.E.
Evaluation of supermarket bagging using a wrist motion monitor
Wrist motions required to bag groceries were quantified using a wrist motion monitor. The wrist motions included deviations, velocities, and accelerations for flexion-extension, radial-ulnar, and pronation-supination directions. The independent variables were handle type and object location. Objects with finger thumb couplings required more extreme pronations, greater wrist velocities for pronation-supination deviations, and greater wrist accelerations for pronation-supination deviations than did other objects. Objects with 10cm hand couplings required more extreme flexion, larger ranges of movement for radial-ulnar deviations and pronation-supination deviations, and greater wrist velocities in the radial-ulnar and pronation-supination directions than did 5cm objects. The right and front locations required more extreme deviations than did the left and back locations. Because finger thumb and 10cm hand couplings require larger wrist deviations and greater velocities, these objects may pose a greater risk of developing cumulative trauma disorders to the bagger. Topics: bagging; body mechanics; cashiers, tellers and related clerks; design of equipment; ergonomic evaluation; fingers; forearm rotation; median nerve; musculoskeletal diseases; packing, filling; repetitive strain injury; supermarkets; work posture; workplace design; wrist.
Human Factors, Dec. 1998, Vol.40, No.4, p.624-632. Illus. 8 ref.

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