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Work posture - 506 entries found

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  • Work posture

1995

CIS 96-1510 Flenghi D.
Functional capacity of the lumbar region, low back pain and professional strain - Studies of manual handling, vibration and static posture
Capacités fonctionnelles lombaires, lombalgies et contraintes professionnelles - Etudes de la manutention manuelle, des vibrations et des postures prolongées [in French]
Thesis. Possible functional disturbances of the lumbar area were assessed in 1,970 workers (1,295 men and 675 women) in 49 French factories. The occupational physical strains considered were: whole-body vibration and manual handling for men, and static postures and manual handling for women. A control group not exposed to these strains comprised 208 workers (104 men and 104 women). Low back pain affected 70% of the population, whatever the occupational strain. The severity and frequency of low back pain were higher for women in manual handling tasks compared to the female referent group; this was confirmed by the lumbar functional impairment in the study group. Male workers exposed to whole-body vibration and manual handling showed functional impairment, whereas their clinical low back pain levels were equivalent to those of the male referent group. Preventive action should include workstation improvements, and the information and training of workers.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Feb. 1995. i, 191p. Illus. 285 ref.

CIS 96-1498 Knollmann H.
Field tests with knee pads for work in kneeling posture
Feldversuch mit Knieschützern für Arbeiten, die eine kniende Haltung erfordern [in German]
The comfort of ergonomically designed knee pads was tested in jobs involving a kneeling position, such as paving roads with cobblestones, asphalting, tiling, floor-laying and plumbing. Questionnaires were distributed to assess the knee pads. Of 1,068 wearers, 425 found the comfort of the knee pads better than average, 416 found them average and 272 found them unsuitable. Hot asphalt destroyed the polyurethane material the knee pads were made of. Floor-layers in particular liked the knee pads; tilers and pavers followed.
Die BG, June 1995, No.6, p.300-303. Illus.

CIS 96-720 Lee Y.H., Weng J.
An ergonomic design and performance evaluation of handy scanners by males
Three types of hand scanner were evaluated in terms of performance, posture used, strain on the forearm musculature and subjective ratings. The two commercially available models required a thumb-forefinger side grip or a thumb-finger grip; a proposed model, based on ergonomic design considerations, required a thumb-finger-palmar grip. Performance evaluation by 19 male subjects indicated that the proposed model resulted in a higher success rate, a shorter completion time, the smallest self-selected working area, least strain on the forearm muscles, and highest subjective ratings. Results justify the consideration of ergonomic factors in future scanner design.
Applied Ergonomics, Dec. 1995, Vol.26, No.6, p.425-430. Illus. 19 ref.

CIS 96-1133 Nevala-Puranen N.
Reduction of farmers' postural load during occupationally oriented medical rehabilitation
Female farmers with various musculoskeletal symptoms took part in four occupationally-oriented medical rehabilitation courses at a rehabilitation centre in Finland. Work postures and their load on the musculoskeletal system were assessed at the beginning of the three-week rehabilitation period during which new work techniques were learned. Measurements at the end of the course showed that the proportion of strenuous work postures had decreased; simultaneous bent and twisted postures for the back had decreased from 34% to 4% of all studied work postures. Further measurements after six months confirmed that the new work techniques had been adopted.
Applied Ergonomics, Dec. 1995, vol.26, No.6, p.411-415. Illus. 12 ref.

CIS 96-1132 Grant K.A., Habes D.J., Tepper A.L.
Work activities and musculoskeletal complaints among preschool workers
In a questionnaire survey of 18 workers at a child day care facility, 61% of respondents reported back pain/discomfort. Other complaints included neck/shoulder pain (33%), lower extremity pain (33%) and hand/wrist pain (11%). Observation and analysis of work activities indicated that employees spent significant periods of time kneeling, sitting on the floor, squatting or bending at the waist. Employees working with smaller children and who frequently performed lifts and assumed awkward lower extremity postures tended to have more back complaints than those caring for older children. Recommendations are made for work and workplace modification.
Applied Ergonomics, Dec. 1995, Vol.26, No.6, p.405-410. Illus. 16 ref.

CIS 96-1143 Kumar S.
Development of predictive equations for lifting strengths
Lifting strengths were measured for 30 subjects (18 males and 12 females) performing stoop lifts and squat lifts. For each lift, strengths were tested in standard posture, and isokinetic and isometric modes at half, three-quarters and full horizontal individual reach distances in sagittal, 30° lateral and 60° lateral planes. There was a significant correlation between lifting strength on one hand and the sex of the subject, and the reach, plane and velocity of the lift on the other; more than 70% of variance in lifting strength was accounted for by the anthropometric variables and sagittal plane strength values. Human lifting strength capabilities may be predicted based on simple anthropometric and strength characteristics.
Applied Ergonomics, Oct. 1995, Vol.26, No.5, p.327-341. Illus. 34 ref.

CIS 96-328 Nordahl S.H.G., Aasen T., Molvær O.I.
Balance testing in saturation diving
Measurements of postural control were made in four divers using a static balance platform before, during and after an onshore experimental saturation heliox chamber dive lasting 32 days. Reduced postural control was detected in all four divers from approximately 200msw and deeper. Body sway showed a distinct increase during compression, reaching a maximum during the bottom phase. All sway parameters returned to pre-dive values after surfacing. Results indicate that deep heliox diving influences postural control and the vestibular system.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 1995, Vol.66, No.11, p.1031-1036. Illus. 13 ref.

CIS 95-2290 Fontana L., Chamoux A., Albuisson E., Borel A.M., Djeriri K., Catilina M.J., Verjux T., Catilina P.
Determination of occupational stress in refuse collectors by applying work organization analysis to physiological data on heart rate and on posture
Détermination des contraintes liées à l'activité professionnelle du ripeur par l'analyse organisationnelle du travail en relation avec les données physiologiques de fréquence cardiaque et de postures [in French]
A study was conducted on twenty-six refuse collectors (mean age = 33.2yrs ± 9.2yrs) in order to: (1) assess the workload by measuring the heart rate in order to establish the greatest sources of stress; (2) to study the association between working postures and different kinds of refuse; (3) to describe and analyze work organization. The mean heart rate during work was 104.6 ± 16.3 beats per minute. The average relative cardiac cost was 32.9% ± 11.5; this qualifies the job as being "hard" according to the Chamoux method. A number of stress sources were identified: collection organization, the collected tonnage, the type of collected refuse and time constraints. Solutions to improve work organization and to reduce workload and spinal stress are discussed.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, 1995, Vol.56, No.5, p.351-358. Illus. 13 ref.

CIS 95-1539 Hall C.
Hand function with special regard to work with tools - Neurophysiological, biomechanical and ergonomic investigations of the hand
This thesis describes laboratory and field studies of posture and hand use in occupational settings, as well as the forces that act on the hand during work with tools. Two new computerized methods for systematic observation of occupational work load were developed and evaluated. A study of automobile assembly line workers showed higher prevalences of subjective forearm-hand symptoms, tendinitis and carpal tunnel syndrome than in the general population. Work with power tools and long holding time per work operations were associated with a high prevalence of self reported symptoms of the forearm and hand. Pressure applied to the hand, pressure pain threshold and finger and hand force were also investigated. Detailed summary in English and French.
Arbetsmiljöinstitutet, Förlagstjänst, 171 84 Solna, Sweden, 1995. 81p. Illus. 260 ref.

1994

CIS 96-675 Heeg F.J., Deurer W., Feld K.H., Kleine G., Lüttke-Nymphius M., Räder K., Rodzinski H.
Improvement of the working conditions and health protection of stonecutters
Verbesserung der Arbeitsbedingungen sowie des Arbeits- und Gesundheitsschutzes für Steinmetzbetriebe [in German]
Exposure to quartz dust and noise, lighting conditions and work postures were determined in 10 stone dressing plants in Germany. A questionnaire survey of the stonecutters was conducted in order to determine the subjectively perceived conditions of work. An enclosure for drawing off the quartz dust and an adjustable table to improve work posture are described. Work organization was changed. The layout of an optimized stone dressing plant is illustrated.
Zeitschrift für Arbeitswissenschaft, Dec. 1994, Vol.48, No.4, p.205-216. Illus. 10 ref.

CIS 96-378 Lueder R., Noro K.
Hard facts about soft machines: The ergonomics of seating
This manual comprises a series of papers on the ergonomics of seating. Contents: adjustability of seating (chair and work-surface heights); anthropometrics; posture; low back pain and seating; biomechanics; seat pressure distributions (assessment and prediction of seat comfort); chairs for school children; users with special needs; design applications; industry perspectives (evaluating office chairs, office seating and movement); ergonomics standards and legislative trends for VDTs.
Taylor & Francis Ltd., Rankine Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 8PR, United Kingdom, 1994. xv, 457p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. Price: GBP 59.50.

CIS 95-2240 Cornelius K.M., Redfern M.S., Steiner L.J.
Postural stability after whole-body vibration exposure
One possible contributing factor in fall injuries of heavy mobile equipment operators is a loss of postural stability during egress. Because many of these operators are exposed to prolonged periods of whole-body vibration (WBV), a study was conducted to determine if postural stability is impaired by WBV exposure. The WBV consisted of 40 minutes of vertical vibration generated by a motion platform, which emulated actual vibration levels of an underground shuttle car. Two independent variables, each at two levels, consisted of vibration and vision. The measured dependent variables were postural sway amplitude and velocity of sway. No significant difference between the vibration and no vibration conditions were found. Based on the results of this study, it cannot be concluded that WBV at the exposed frequencies influences postural stability. Other factors may contribute to falls during egress, such as problems with foot placement accuracy or system design.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, June 1994, Vol.13, No.4, p.343-351. Illus. 21 ref.

CIS 95-2280 Pinzke S.
A computerized system for analysing working postures in agriculture
This paper presents a computerized programme for analyzing work postures in agriculture. The system contains two types of routines for studies of observation, Working Posture Analysing System (WOPALAS) and a simple video film technique for Registration and Analysis of working postures and movements (VIRA). Furthermore, the system consists of programmes for moment calculations and routines for registration of problems in the locomotive organs. The computerized system provides several advantages compared with traditional manual systems. It is less demanding for the operator and the analyses are more accurate. The system rapidly provides the results of an analysis. The system can be advantageously used in ergonomic research and teaching as well as by company health service centres.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, June 1994, Vol.13, No.4, p.307-315. Illus. 13 ref.

CIS 95-1528 Burton A.K., Tillotson K.M., Boocock M.G.
Estimation of spinal loads in overhead work
A field study revealed that motor mechanics typically spent 8% of their time working overhead with up to 10° of lumbar extension. In a laboratory study, stature change was measured in subjects performing simulated motor vehicle maintenance tasks both overhead and at chest height. The overhead task entailed more lumbar extension and perceived exertion than did the chest-height task; only small changes in stature were observed at the end of the work period and there was no significant difference between the tasks. No evidence was found to indicate a need for ergonomic intervention in overhead work tasks as far as spinal loading is concerned.
Ergonomics, Aug. 1994, Vol.37, No.8, p.1311-1321. Illus. 39 ref.

CIS 95-1531 Davis P.J., Fernandez J.E.
Maximum acceptable frequencies for females performing a drilling task in different wrist postures
A study was made of 12 females performing a simulated drilling task using nine wrist postures at an adjustable workstation. Results revealed that flexion, extension and radial deviation all had a significant effect on maximum acceptable frequencies, while ulnar deviation did not. The postures are ranked in order of possible risk of contributing to cumulative trauma disorders, with neutral having the lowest risk and flexion having the highest risk.
Journal of Human Ergology, Dec. 1994, Vol.23, No.2, p.81-92. Illus. 9 ref.

CIS 95-783 Steinberg U.
Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsmedizin
Work postures
Arbeitsbedingte Körperhaltungen [in German]
Literature survey covering descriptions of the methods of analysis and evaluation of work postures. They include questionnaire surveys, observations, video recordings, photography, computer analyses and anthropometric and intracorporal methods such as ultrasonic and X-ray techniques.
Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 1994. 154p. Illus. 743 ref. Prix: DEM 28.00.

CIS 95-360 Schierhout G.H., Bridger R.S., Myers J.E.
Development of observational methods for estimation of exposure to workplace postural stress
Occupational Medicine, Dec. 1994, Vol.44, No.5, p.262-266. Illus. 17 ref. ###

CIS 95-357 Törner M., Almström C., Karlsson R., Kadefors R.
Working on a moving surface - A biomechanical analysis of musculoskeletal load due to ship motions in combination with work
The working postures of a fisherman on board a Swedish trawler at sea were registered during five different working conditions. Ship motions were also registered. While standing erect, ship motions were mainly counteracted by motions in the lower extremity and lumbar back, thus inducing increased strain in these parts of the body. Holding a load considerably increased the load on most joints, while lifting the load further increased the musculo-skeletal strain. The methodology may help in the design of similar vessels and in the evaluation of motion-damping devices and handling methods.
Ergonomics, Feb. 1994, Vol.37, No.2, p.345-362. Illus. 19 ref.

CIS 95-355 Derksen J.C.M., Van Riel M.P.J.M., Van Wingerden J.P., Snijders C.J.
A comparison of working postures of parcel sorters using three different working methods
The postures of eight parcel sorters were measured while using three different working methods: two different sorting tables and a hydraulic lifting platform. The methods were compared with respect to the posture of the trunk and consequent load on the lumbar spine. While using the lifting platform, the subjects stood 8-11% more erect compared to working at the sorting tables, thereby reducing the load on the lumbar spine. Use of the lifting platform is therefore the preferred method of working, although it is stressed that the way in which the sorters use the platform is important.
Ergonomics, Feb. 1994, Vol.37, No.2, p.299-309. Illus. 16 ref.

CIS 94-2121 Bovenzi M., Betta A.
Low-back disorders in agricultural tractor drivers exposed to whole-body vibration and postural stress
A questionnaire survey was carried out to investigate the occurrence of low-back pain (LBP) among a group of tractor drivers exposed to whole-body vibration and postural stress and among a control group of office workers. A vibration dose was calculated for each driver and perceived postural stress was assessed. The prevalence of LBP was greater in the tractor drivers than in the controls and was significantly associated with both vibration dose and postural load. Back accidents and age were also significant predictors for LBP. European and ISO recommendations for exposure to whole body vibration are discussed.
Applied Ergonomics, Aug. 1994, Vol.25, No.4, p.231-241. 40 ref.

CIS 94-2134 Genaidy A.M., Al-Shedi A.A., Karwowski W.
Postural stress analysis in industry
Observational techniques used to conduct postural stress analysis in industry are reviewed. Techniques are classified into macropostural, micropostural and postural-work activity and the basis for each classification is outlined and evaluated. Continuous and intermittent postural recording techniques are described along with training in postural stress analysis.
Applied Ergonomics, Apr. 1994, Vol.25, No.2, p.77-87. 46 ref.

CIS 94-1788 Winkelmolen G.H.M., Landeweerd J.A., Drost M.R.
An evaluation of patient lifting techniques
In a laboratory study, five two-person lifting techniques were evaluated as to the amount of physical exertion required of the nurses. Working postures were recorded on video tape and the data used in an anatomical-biomechanical analysis; perceived exertion by the nurses was also measured. In almost all situations, the compressive forces on the nurse's spine exceeded the acceptable limit. Ratings of perceived exertion were higher in symmetrical handling than in asymmetrical handling. In general, the results of the biomechanical evaluation were in line with the subjective perception of the nurses.
Ergonomics, May 1994, Vol.37, No.5, p.921-932. Illus. 20 ref.

CIS 94-1787 Engels J.A., Landeweerd J.A., Kant Y.
An OWAS-based analysis of nurses' working postures
The working postures of Dutch nurses were observed using the Ovako Working Posture Analysis System (OWAS). A computer program was used to calculate the working posture load for each activity and the contribution of a specific activity to the total working load. Results show that working postures that are slightly harmful to the musculoskeletal system occur during a substantial part of the working day both during patient-handling activities and during administration tasks. Focusing on patient-handling tasks in order to determine the load on the musculoskeletal system would lead to an underestimate of the total working posture load of nurses.
Ergonomics, May 1994, Vol.37, No.5, p.909-919. Illus. 19 ref.

CIS 94-1779 Dul J., Douwes M., Smitt P.
Ergonomic guidelines for the prevention of discomfort of static postures based on endurance data
The use of endurance data as a basis for guidelines for the prevention of discomfort of static postures is discussed along with the aim and scope of a 'work-rest model for static postures' (WR model). Discomfort can be predicted from the 'remaining endurance capacity' (REC); the WR model estimates at group level the mean REC of a given static posture and work-rest schedule, based on endurance data from the literature. The validity of the model is discussed. The model may be used on the assessment and optimization of static postures and work-rest schedules.
Ergonomics, May 1994, Vol.37, No.5, p.807-815. Illus. 8 ref.

1993

CIS 00-261 Kawakami T., Khai T.T., Toi L.M., Sakai K.
Workload of rice reapers in the Mekhon delta area in Vietnam
The workload of rice reapers was studied in a village in Vietnam with a view to finding ergonomic improvement measures. Interviews with 97 agricultural workers revealed that low-back pain was the most frequent complaint related to agricultural work (42.3%), followed by joint pains and animal and insect bites. Field study showed that forward bending posture accounted for 65% of the time spent reaping rice, and that fatigue symptoms and subsidiary activities increased while working. Results suggest the need to improve workload of rice reapers in the area through such work organization as insertion of short breaks.
Journal of Science of Labour - Rōdō Kagaku, Oct. 1993, Vol.69, No.10 (Part II of 2 Parts), p.21-29. Illus. 7 ref.

CIS 96-1896 Burdorf A., Van Duuren L.
An evaluation of ergonomic improvements in the woodworking industry
The effect of machine characteristics on exposure to mechanical load was studied in 28 subjects working in five small factories and operating four-sided planing machines. Work postures and external load were analyzed with the Ovako working posture analysis system. Awkward postures, such as bent or twisted back (25%), twisted head (28%), etc., regularly occurred among the operators. The proportion of working time spent with lifting and carrying wooden boards and planks averaged 41%. Statistical analysis indicated that beneficial effects on postural load were achieved by various ergonomic improvements such as rising platforms and roller paths. Work time with external load was reduced by 10% as a result of the presence of rising platforms and tables. This type of analysis may contribute to the improvement of working conditions for operators of planing machines by reducing mechanical load on the body.
Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Dec. 1993, Vol.37, No.6, p.615-622. 17 ref.

CIS 96-1565 Work postures and work movements [Sweden]
Arbetsställningar och arbetsrörelser [in Swedish]
This amendment of ordinance AFS 1983:6 (CIS 83-1180) was adopted on 25 November 1993 and is an adaptation of EEC Directives 89/392/EEC (CIS 89-1442) and 90/269/EEC (CIS 90-1101). It covers: information to employees.
Arbetarskyddsstyrelsen, Publikationsservice, Box 1300, 171 25 Solna, Sweden, 1993. 5p.

CIS 95-156 Society of Occupational Medicine of the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur and Corsica regions - Meetings of 29 September and 25 November 1992, 19 January and 12 February 1993
Société de médecine du travail de la région Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur et de la région Corse - Séances des 29 septembre et 25 novembre 1992, et des 19 janvier et 12 février 1993 [in French]
Papers presented at the meetings of the Society of Occupational Medicine of the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur and Corsica regions (France, 29 Sep. and 25 Nov. 1992, 19 Jan. and 12 Feb. 1993): collectors' badges and epoxy resins - investigation after the reporting of a case of an occupational disease; in-plant management of smoking under French legislation concerning smoking in the workplace; sleep disturbances and the working population; classification of sleep disturbances; sleep physiology and the faculties of adaptation; postural deficiency syndromes; neurophysiopathogenic aspects of the postural system; ophthalmic posture and occupational medicine.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, 1993, Vol.54, No.8, p.669-681.

CIS 94-1796 Nagata H.
Proposed method to match physical test scores with the probable risk of a fatal fall
A series of single leg standing tests and a jump test are proposed to evaluate the standing ability of elderly employees engaged in dangerous jobs. Results indicate that the elderly who can stand less than 2 seconds in a single leg standing test on a flat beam, less than 8 seconds on a floor, and jump less than 10 times in a jump step test are at greater risk when engaged in jobs where they are liable to fall. A suggested evaluation table shows the probable risk of fatal falls for the elderly.
Safety Science, Nov. 1993, Vol.17, No.1, p.1-12. Illus. 11 ref.

CIS 94-1791 Burdorf A., Naaktgeboren B., de Groot H.C.W.M.
Occupational risk factors for low back pain among sedentary workers
The relationship of low back pain and sedentary work was examined among crane operators, straddle carrier drivers, and a reference group of office workers, aged 25 to 60 years. Information about history of low back pain, individual characteristics, and working conditions in the past and present was obtained by a standardized interview. Assessment of postural load on the back was performed by observation of non-neutral postures of the trunk during normal work activities. Measurements showed that in both occupations the daily exposure to whole-body vibrations was low, and therefore not considered an important risk factor for low back pain in this study. The 12-month prevalence of low back pain among crane operators was 50%; among straddle carrier drivers, 44%, and among office workers 34%. It is suggested that sustained sedentary work in a forced non-neutral trunk posture is a risk factor for low back pain.
Journal of Occupational Medicine, Dec. 1993, Vol.35, No.12, p.1213-1220. 38 ref.

CIS 94-1424 Seo A., Kakehashi M., Tsuru S., Amran A., Paeng A., Paeng J.I., Yoshinaga F.
Development of a system for analyzing working postures
A system was developed for the simultaneous recording and analysis of posture, work content and physiological data. It consists of a portable unit worn by subject, a video camera and image digitizer and a microcomputer. The portable unit collects surface electromyograms and values of trunk inclination and joint flexion from sensors attached to various points of the subject's body, and relays the data to the computer in synchrony with the images from the camera. In connection with a study of low back pain, the system performed successfully in analyzing a simulated manual baggage handling task. Whereas similar systems can only be used in the laboratory, the present one can be taken into the field.
Industrial Health, 1993, Vol.31, No.2, p.69-77. Illus. 19 ref.

CIS 94-1423 Schierhout G.H., Myers J.E., Bridger R.S.
Musculoskeletal pain and workplace ergonomic stressors in manufacturing industry in South Africa
This study aimed to investigate musculoskeletal pain in relation to postural stressors in defined factory floor occupations. A checklist was developed to score jobs according to postural stress (comprising factors of posture, force and repetition). A random sample of workers (n=155) were interviewed with regard to pain and various potential confounders and effect modifiers. Exposure-response relationships were examined. Years on the job, force and a summed unnatural posture score was significantly associated with pain in the trapezius region, after adjusting for height and gender. An overall unnatural posture score was significantly associated with musculoskeletal pain at any anatomical site. None of the explanatory variables were associated with back pain. A simple observational instrument has potential for general surveillance of ergonomic exposure hazards in industrial occupations and is particularly appropriate for use in lesser developed countries.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Aug. 1993, Vol.12, p.3-11. Illus. 45 ref.

CIS 94-1418 Sakakibara H., Miyao M., Kondo T., Yamada S.
Musculoskeletal symptoms and working postures in pear and apple orchard workers
Nashi, ringo saibai jūjisha no kin-kokkaku kei shōjō to sagyō shisei [in Japanese]
Musculoskeletal symptoms in pear and apple orchard farmers were studied in relation to working postures, particularly arm elevation and head extension for overhead work. The same 46 female farmers were examined three times, in May while thinning pears, in June while bagging pears, and in July while bagging apples. Musculoskeletal symptoms such as complaints of stiffness and pain in the neck and shoulders, muscular tenderness in the shoulders, and pain during movement of the neck were prominent in thinning and bagging pears, as compared with bagging apples. Pear tasks require more arm elevation and head extension than apple tasks, due to the overhead work. The working postures of arm elevation and head extension were considered to be a dominant causative factor in shoulder-neck disorders of the farmers examined. The low back pain and decreased back muscle power from thinning pears may be caused by continuous backward bending of the back associated with thinning work.
Japanese Journal of Industrial Health - Sangyō-Igaku, 20 Nov. 1993, Vol.35, No.6, p.530-536. Illus. 17 ref.

CIS 94-738 Marras W.S., Karwowski W., Smith J.L., Pacholski L.
International Ergonomics Association
The ergonomics of manual work
Proceedings of the International Ergonomics Association World Conference on Ergonomics of Materials Handling and Information Processing at Work held in Warsaw, Poland, 14-17 June 1993. Papers are presented under the following headings: manual handling tasks; occupational biomechanics; posture at work; prevention of musculoskeletal injury; workload and strain assessment; human operator, computers and automation; macroergonomics, participatory approach; training and education; workplace, equipment and system design; industrial safety, health and work environment.
Taylor and Francis Ltd., Ranking Road, Basingstoke RG24 OPR, Hants., United Kingdom, 1993. xvii, 725p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Author index.

CIS 94-363 Saarilhati J., Mattila M., Laine A.
Analysis and improvement of the ergonomics and safety of ultrasonic inspections in nuclear power plants
A study was made of radiation exposure and the work posture of inspectors carrying out ultrasonic tests of pipeline weldings during shutdown of two nuclear power plants in Finland. Results showed that inspectors were exposed to higher radiation doses than other workers in nuclear plants; automated testing resulted in higher radiation doses than manual testing because of the time required to install and adjust the equipment. Poor working postures were common during both manual and automated inspections.
In: Nielsen R. and Jorgensen K. (eds.), Advances in industrial ergonomics and safety V., Taylor and Francis Ltd., Rankine Road, Basingstoke RG24 OPR, Hants, United Kingdom, 1993, p.621-626. 5 ref.

CIS 93-2086 Genaidy A.M., Karwowski W.
The effects of neutral posture deviations on perceived joint discomfort ratings in sitting and standing postures
Results of this study indicate that: upper extremity postures in which the arms are outstretched in the standing position lead to high levels of perceived shoulder discomfort ratings; supination of the forearm produces most joint stressfulness, followed by pronation and then both elbow flexion and extension; lateral bending of the neck appears to be more stressful than its flexion, extension and rotation; in the standing position, extension of the back should be given the highest ranking for back movements, followed by lateral bending and rotation, then flexion; hip movements are very stressful; ankle flexion is more stressful than ankle extension.
Ergonomics, July 1993, Vol.36, No.7, p.785-792. 13 ref.

1992

CIS 97-1371 Kivimäki J.
Occupationally related ultrasonic findings in carpet and floor layers' knees
Soft tissue changes in the anterior aspect of the knee were evaluated with ultrasonography among 96 randomly selected carpet and floor layers and 72 house painters. The ultrasonography showed thickening of the prepatellar or superficial infrapatellar bursa in 49% of the carpet and floor layers and 7% of the painters. Fluid collection in the prepatellar or superficial infrapatellar bursa was noted for 10 carpet and floor layers, and this ultrasonographic finding was associated with knee pain in kneeling postures.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Dec. 1992, Vol.18, No.6, p.400-402. 9 ref.

CIS 95-351 van der Beek A.J., van Gaalen L.C., Frings-Dresen M.H.W.
Working postures and activities of lorry drivers: A reliability study of on-site observation and recording on a pocket computer
The TRAC (Task Recording and Analysis on Computer) technique was used to observe loading and unloading activities of lorry drivers. Inter-observer reliabilities were first determined using selected variables for observation (components of posture, activity and load handled). These variables were then modified until a pre-set standard for inter-observer reliability was reached. Based on these results, an improved application of TRAC is proposed involving the use of two observers: one to record working postures and one to record activities. This technique is considered to be an important contribution to the accurate analysis of workplaces.
Applied Ergonomics, Oct. 1992, Vol.23, No.5, p.331-336. 26 ref.

CIS 93-1508 Louhevaara V., Suurnäkki T.
Centre for Occupational Safety (Finland)
OWAS: A method for the evaluation of postural load during work
This training booklet describes the basic version of the OWAS method of postural load evaluation. Chapters cover: load caused by work postures; assessment of postural load in the workplace; observation of work postures; reliability of the OWAS method; action categories of work postures; computer applications; applications of the method and its implementation at the workplace; the OWAS method in research and development.
Publication Office, Topeliuksenkatu 41 a A, 00250 Helsinki, Finland, 1992. 23p. Illus. 12 ref.

CIS 93-1386 Kant I.J., de Jong L.C.G.M., van Rijssen-Moll M., Borm P.J.A.
A survey of static and dynamic work postures of operating room staff
The work postures of operating room personnel during general surgery and ear-nose-throat surgery were evaluated by a standardised method in a hospital in Maastricht (The Netherlands) in order to determine the physical workload of particular group of health care workers. A total of 23 surgeons, assistant anaesthetists, instrumentation nurses and other nurses were included in the study. Surgeons and instrumentation nurses were found to have a high incidence of static work postures which strain the musculoskeletal system.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, 1992, Vol.63, No.6, p.423-428. 20 ref.

CIS 93-1391 Swat K.
An ergonomic system for assessing postural stress in workplaces
A new method has been developed to enable the ergonomic assessment of stress associated with posture at the workplace. It enables evaluations of the load resulting from working postures at workplaces where standing and walking postures dominate. The method also offers the possibility of estimating the preexisting load already at the stage of workplace design. This may prove useful in evaluating the global load and giving the designer an idea of the effect of individual design decisions on postural load. The method has been used to compare the postural stress at several workplaces in the textile industry and it seems to perform satisfactorily.
Polish Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 1992, Vol.5, No.4, p.315-321. Illus. 7 ref.

CIS 93-178 Marbury M.C.
Relationship of ergonomic stressors to birthweight and gestational age
Women in many occupations are exposed to ergonomic stressors (eg, prolonged standing, physical exertion, and long work weeks). After a consideration of the major methodological problems encountered in studying effects of ergonomic stressors on birthweight and gestational age, epidemiologic studies that have addressed this issue are reviewed. No individual ergonomic stressor has been consistently associated with effects on gestational age. However, most studies which have attempted to look at the cumulative effect of several stressors report that women in the highest exposure category are at higher risk of giving birth prematurely. In contrast, data regarding an association with birthweight are more variable, and firm conclusions cannot be drawn. While future studies that assess exposure to ergonomic stressors with a more comprehensive and quantitative approach are needed, current evidence is sufficient to suggest that clinicians should take ergonomic stressors into account in the assessment of their patients' risk for preterm delivery.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Apr. 1992, Vol.18, No.2, p.73-83. 36 ref.

CIS 93-135 Burdorf A.
Exposure assessment of risk factors for disorders of the back in occupational epidemiology
This review describes methods for assessing exposure to postural load of the back in occupational epidemiological studies. Among the articles selected that presented information on the prevalence of back disorders in occupational groups, only 42% exposure assessment was performed. Measures of exposure were predominantly presented in the nominal and ordinal levels. It is agreed that in most epidemiologic studies on disorders of the back in occupational groups the quality of exposure data is poor. Quantitative measurement methods need to be developed for application in occupational epidemiology.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Feb. 1992, Vol.18, No.1, p.1-9. 134 ref

CIS 92-1791 Check-out workplaces and jobs in self-service retail establishments - Ergonomical aspects and job content [Netherlands]
Kassawerk in zelfbedieningswinkels - Ergonomische en functie-inhoudelijke aspecten [in Dutch]
This directive presents practical and directly useful guidelines for the ergonomic design of check-out workplaces and jobs in supermarkets and similar establishments. Relevant passages of the Working Conditions Act (CIS 92-351) are quoted and commented on.
Labour Inspectorate, Directorate-General of Labour (Arbeidsinspectie, Directoraat-Generaal van de Arbeid), Postbus 90804, 2509 LV Den Haag, Netherlands, 1992. 23p. Illus. 20 ref.

CIS 92-2078 Smith J.L., Ayoub M.M., McDaniel J.W.
Manual materials handling capabilities in non-standard postures
Recognising that many industrial manual materials handling (MMH) activities do not use standard postures, recent research projects have explored psychophysically determined MMH capacities in a variety of non-standard postures. Results of a series of reseach efforts are presented in the form of population capabilities of both males and females for 99 MMH tasks using non-standard postures. Although the data are not expected to cover all non-standard situations, it is considered that they should be useful to the ergonomist in providing insight into population capacities for the evaluation and design of similar MMH activities.
Ergonomics, July-Aug. 1992, Vol.35, Nos.7 and 8, p.807-831. 9 ref.

CIS 92-1727 Vink P.
Application problems of a biomechanical model in improving roofwork
A two-dimensional static biomechanical model was used to calculate compression force during both traditional roofwork and roofwork using a new instrument intended to reduce backload. Use of the new machine reduced compression force by 30%, but also influenced factors which cannot be incorporated into the model and may cause back injuries. The machine introduced trunk torsion (thought to cause back injury) and reduced the frequency of lifting and the velocity of movement.
Applied Ergonomics, June 1992, Vol.23, No.3, p.177-180. Illus. 20 ref.

1991

CIS 97-1361 Kivi P., Mattila M.
Analysis and improvement of work postures in the building industry: Application of the computerised OWAS method
The Ovako Working Posture Analysing System (OWAS) was used to analyze work postures at 7 different sites of a building company. The method uses a four-digit code to describe the position of the back, arms and legs, and the need for force. 12 jobs involving 39 essential tasks were selected for observation. The use of the method in building construction is described along with the development of a portable computer system for coding and analysis, improvement of work postures identified as poor, and use of the results as part of an ergonomics training programme.
Applied Ergonomics, Feb. 1991, Vol.22, No.1, p.43-48. Illus. 18 ref.

CIS 95-755 Kutscher S.
The Buchenbühl planting method
Das Buchenbühler Schrägpflanzverfahren [in German]
Pulse rate, muscle activity in the arms and shoulders, energy expenditure and work posture of forestry workers planting trees were studied. Two methods were employed for planting: the conventional method and a new method coming from the USA, which uses a specially designed hoe. Productivity was higher by 50 to 70% and posture strain was lower with the new method than with the conventional method. The planting method is suitable for deciduous trees.
A F Z - Allgemeine Forst Zeitschrift, Sep. 1991, Vol.46, No.19, p.956-960. Illus. 5 ref.

CIS 94-734 Nag P.K.
Endurance limits in different modes of load holding
This study examines the influence of different modes of load holding on isometric strength exertion and endurance capacity. Six healthy males underwent longitudinal testing with the trunk, knee and elbow in 10 different (straight and bent) postures. The load heights (LH) of 320, 440, 850 and 1250mm from the floor level with subject-load-distance (S-L-D) of 120 and 320mm were used. The level and duration of force exertion were higher when the load was placed closer to the body. The endurance times were consistently high with the increase in LH, the highest being recorded with the load placed at the shoulder level and S-L-D of 120mm. As evident from MVC and endurance times, the back straight/knee bent postures may not be preferred to back bent postures.
Applied Ergonomics, June 1991, Vol.22, No.3, p.185-188. 30 ref.

CIS 94-733 Verbeek J.
The use of adjustable furniture: Evaluation of an instruction programme for office workers
A programme was designed in which instruction was given in the optimal adjustment of seat and desk height based on individually measured body dimensions. The programme was evaluated by means of measurement of seat and desk height before and after instruction to an experimental group in comparison with a control group to which no instruction was given. In the experimental group, prior to instruction, the mean deviation from the ideal sitting posture measured 71mm for seat height and 70mm for desk height. After instruction this deviation decreased by 11mm for seat height and 18mm for desk height. Although this is a statistically significant change, it is of limited practical importance since for seat height only 7% (3 of 41) and for desk height 13% (5 of 40) adjusted their furniture effectively as they were advised. The reasons for this meagre result are assumed to be the arbitrary concept of an ideal sitting posture, difficulties in obtaining extra adjustments in the form of footrests and desk elevation, the social acceptability of the advice given, and practical impediments that can occur while adopting an ideal sitting posture.
Applied Ergonomics, June 1991, Vol.22, No.3, p.179-184. 10 ref.

CIS 94-730 Helander M.G., Grossmith E.J., Prabhu P.
Planning and implementation of microscope work
In electronics manufacturing, many of the assembly operations require the use of microscopes. This paper presents measures and suggestions that could help in relieving visual and postural fatigue in microscope work. These measures include the ergonomic design of microscope workstations as well as of microscopes themselves, process changes to minimise use of the microscope, replacement of microscope workstations with television systems, and a training programme for inexperienced operators. The main emphasis in implementing these recommendations was the ergonomic design of microscope workstations; several examples are given.
Applied Ergonomics, Feb. 1991, Vol.22, No.1, p.36-42. 26 ref.

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