| Document ID (ISN) | 106272 |
| CIS number |
07-476 |
| ISSN - Serial title |
0169-8141 - International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics |
| Year |
2006 |
| Convention or series no. |
|
| Author(s) |
Kluth K., Strasser H. |
| Title |
Ergonomics in the rescue service - Ergonomic evaluation of ambulance cots |
| Bibliographic information |
Mar. 2006, Vol.36, No.3, p.247-256. Illus. 33 ref. |
| Abstract |
In this comparative ergonomic study, three combinations of ambulance stretchers were tested with respect to their ergonomic quality. In addition to work analyses during the use of ambulance cots, the strain on the circulatory system of 12 ambulance workers was measured in four standardized carrying tests. Static and dynamic components of the muscle strain were determined by electromyography. Findings are discussed. One of the systems widely used in several countries was found to have marked weaknesses. Several specific recommendations are made for improving the design of ambulance cots with respect to their weight, shape, positioning of handles and mechanism of the height adjustment of the gurney. Changes in the design are also recommended in order to reduce the high strain on the ambulance workers that was measured via peripheral-physiological methods. |
| Descriptors (primary) |
physical workload; design of equipment; ambulances; ergonomics |
| Descriptors (secondary) |
subjective assessment; evaluation of equipment; load carriage; comparative study; electromyography; ergonomic evaluation; workload assessment |
| Document type |
D - Periodical articles |
| Country / State or Province | Germany |
| Subject(s) |
Ergonomics and work organization
|
| Broad subject area(s) |
Physiology, ergonomics
|
| Browse category(ies) |
Ergonomics
First aid and emergency organization
|
