Now showing 1 - 4 of 4
  • Publication
    Recent advances in ergonomic studies on material handling mitigating musculoskeletal risks and enhancing worker safety
    Manual material handling (MMH) tasks are a significant contributor to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs), particularly in industries where repetitive motions, awkward postures, and excessive loads are common. Recent advances in ergonomic interventions aim to mitigate these risks, enhancing worker safety and reducing the incidence of injuries. The integration of automation technologies, such as robotic assistants and human-machine interfaces, has proven effective in reducing human involvement in monotonous tasks, thereby alleviating physical strain. Additionally, passive back-support exoskeletons have emerged as promising tools to provide mechanical support during heavy lifting, bending, and repetitive movements, effectively reducing musculoskeletal risks. Technological innovations, including wearable sensors and AI-driven tools, have further improved ergonomic assessments by providing real-time monitoring and feedback on workers’ posture and movements. These advancements allow for timely adjustments and preventive measures, ensuring a safer and more efficient working environment. However, challenges remain regarding the long-term effects and user acceptance of exoskeletons and other ergonomic interventions. Studies also highlight the importance of ergonomic risk assessments, utilizing tools such as the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) and fuzzy logic models to identify and mitigate high-risk tasks.
  • Publication
    Recent advancements in ergonomic risk assessment integration of artificial intelligence, wearable technology, and industry-specific approaches
    Ergonomic risk assessment is crucial in preventing work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) across various industries. Traditional methods, while effective, have limitations, such as reliance on manual observations and a lack of real-time monitoring. Recent technological advancements, including artificial intelligence (AI), wearable sensors, and industry-specific solutions, are addressing these gaps. AI and machine learning techniques enable real-time data analysis, providing more accurate and proactive ergonomic assessments. Wearable technology, such as inertial measurement units and pressure sensors, offers continuous monitoring of worker movements and postures, helping to prevent injuries in sectors like healthcare, construction, and manufacturing. These tools also allow for personalized ergonomic interventions by assessing individual risk factors in real-time. Industry-specific approaches have also emerged, particularly in high-risk fields such as healthcare and mining, where the integration of ergonomic and psychosocial stressors provides a comprehensive risk assessment model. In addition to physical ergonomics, advancements now incorporate psychosocial factors, addressing issues like organizational culture and job stress, which significantly influence musculoskeletal health. Finally, technological innovations such as simulation and modeling tools further enhance ergonomic assessments by simulating worker movements and identifying high-risk postures. However, challenges remain in standardizing these tools and integrating them into existing workflows. The evolution of ergonomic risk assessments towards more automated, precise, and real-time systems promises to reduce WMSDs and improve overall workplace safety.
  • Publication
    Recent advances in ergonomic posture research assessing innovations in occupational health and musculoskeletal disorder prevention
    This review paper explores recent advances in ergonomic posture research, focusing on innovations aimed at improving occupational health and preventing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). The study covers multiple sectors, including agriculture, manual labor, healthcare, and office environments, highlighting the critical role of ergonomics in mitigating physical strain and enhancing worker well-being. Ergonomic interventions tailored to specific industries have demonstrated significant reductions in physiological strain, improved posture, and increased workplace safety and productivity. In agriculture and manual labor, ergonomic adjustments, such as redesigning operator workstations and utilizing ergonomic tools, have proven effective in reducing the physical demands placed on workers, particularly among traditionally underserved groups like female agricultural workers. In healthcare settings, research emphasizes the importance of posture in surgical and clinical environments, where static postures can lead to MSDs. Wearable technologies and real-time biofeedback systems have emerged as valuable tools for improving ergonomic awareness and reducing the physical toll on workers in these high-demand professions. Office ergonomics has also advanced with the development of dynamic seating systems and posture correction devices that encourage movement and reduce strain caused by prolonged sitting. Such innovations help prevent common MSDs, including back and neck pain, while also enhancing cognitive function and productivity in office environments. This review highlights the growing integration of technological innovations, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and wearable sensors, in posture monitoring and risk assessment. These tools enable real-time feedback, improving both the accuracy of ergonomic interventions and worker safety. The review underscores the need for continued research, uniform ergonomic standards, and the implementation of tailored interventions across industries to promote healthier workplaces and reduce the prevalence of MSDs.
  • Publication
    Innovations in ergonomic risk assessment and intervention in material handling
    This review paper delves into the complex facets of ergonomic risk evaluation and reduction across various industrial sectors. The focus is on identifying the hazards linked to manual labor, especially those contributing to physical risks and musculoskeletal disorders among workers, and proposing inventive solutions to mitigate these threats. The review brings together insights from different studies, emphasizing the application of automation, virtual modeling, Kinect-based evaluations, and other innovative tools in repetitive tasks and material handling operations. It also explores the usage of back-support exoskeletons, observational checklists, and workspace redesigns to decrease risks in construction, manufacturing, vegetable transportation, clothing accessories, and other sectors. The development of risk assessment frameworks for specific roles such as container terminal operators and the examination of musculoskeletal disorders in diverse worker demographics, including older female farmers and factory workers, are also featured. The comprehensive approach of the journal sets the stage for future research, aiming to further reduce the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders through continued innovation and cross-sector collaboration.
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