Search Results (152)

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of four working heights on lumbar biomechanics during wall construction tasks, focusing on work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Methods: Fifteen young male participants performed simulated mortar-spreading and bricklaying tasks while actual body movements were recorded using Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensors. Muscle activities of the lumbar erector spinae (ES), quadratus lumborum (QL), multifidus (MF), gluteus maximus (GM), and iliopsoas (IL) were estimated using a 3D musculoskeletal (MSK) model and measured via surface electromyography (sEMG). The analysis of variance (ANOVA) test was conducted to identify the significant differences in muscle activities across four working heights (i.e., foot, knee, waist, and shoulder). Results: Findings showed that working at foot-level height resulted in the highest muscle activity (7.6% to 40.6% increase), particularly in the ES and QL muscles, indicating an increased risk of WMSDs. The activities of the ES, MF, and GM muscles were statistically significant across both tasks and all working heights (p < 0.01). Conclusions: Both MSK and sEMG analyses indicated significantly lower muscle activities at knee and waist heights, suggesting these as the best working positions (47 cm to 107 cm) for minimizing the risk of WMSDs. Conversely, working at foot and shoulder heights was identified as a significant risk factor for WMSDs. Additionally, the similar trends observed between MSK simulations and sEMG data suggest that MSK modeling can effectively substitute for sEMG in future studies. These findings provide valuable insights into ergonomic work positioning to reduce WMSD risks among wall construction workers. Full article

This study analyzes the relationship between ergonomic and psychosocial risk factors and labor productivity using a bibliometric approach through a general analysis and one that includes inclusion criteria such as English language, open access, and primary research publications to identify only those articles that explicitly address the relationship between ergonomic and psychosocial risk factors and labor productivity. It is recognized that both physical and psychosocial conditions of the work environment directly influence workers’ health and organizational performance. For this purpose, a bibliometric review was conducted in academic databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Taylor & Francis, resulting in the selection of 4794 relevant articles for general analysis. Additionally, 116 relevant articles were selected based on the inclusion criteria. Tools and methodologies, such as Rayyan, Excel, VOSviewer 1.6.20, and PRISMA, were used to classify the studies and identify trends, collaboration networks, and geographical distribution. The results reveal a sustained growth in scientific production, with clusters on occupational safety and health, work environment factors, and the characteristics of the population, approach, and methodologies used in the studies. Likewise, Procedia Manufacturing, International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, and Ergonomics stand out as the main sources of publication, while countries such as Sweden, Poland, and the United States lead the scientific production in this field. In addition, the network of co-occurrence of keywords evidences a comprehensive approach that articulates physical or ergonomic and psychosocial risk factors with organizational performance, while the network of authors shows consolidated collaborations and studies focused on analyzing the relationship between physical demands and musculoskeletal disorders from advanced ergonomic approaches. Full article

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders significantly affect healthcare professionals, particularly physiotherapists, due to the physical demands of their work. The link between physical ailments and psychological distress is especially prominent in clinical settings. Objectives: To assess the prevalence of work-related low back pain (LBP), stress, anxiety, and depression among physiotherapists in Saudi Arabia, and to identify associated local risk factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study using convenience sampling included 710 licensed physiotherapists across Saudi Arabia. Participants completed an online survey containing demographic data and the validated measures, including the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) for psychological distress. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, correlation, and regression analyses. Results: Of 710 responses, 697 were valid; 378 physiotherapists reported work-related LBP. The mean pain intensity was 4.6 (SD = 1.6), with 54.2% experiencing moderate to severe disability. Mental health results showed 49.7% had depressive symptoms and 33.9% experienced some level of anxiety. Significant correlations were observed between disability and psychological distress (anxiety: r = 0.382; depression: r = 0.375; stress: r = 0.406; all p < 0.001). Regression analyses indicated psychological distress significantly predicted disability, with R² values ranging from 0.125 to 0.248, being higher among inpatient physiotherapists. Conclusions: This study reveals a high prevalence of LBP and psychological distress among Saudi physiotherapists, with stress being the strongest predictor of LBP severity. Integrated ergonomic and mental health interventions, including workplace wellness programs and psychological support, are recommended to reduce risks and promote a healthier, more sustainable physiotherapy workforce. Full article

In recent decades, information technology has grown. Computers have become a daily activity, facilitating access to information, faster communication and faster work. If used responsibly, it has many advantages. Objectives: To explore the potential link between prolonged use of computer input devices—such as keyboards and mice—and the development of compressive neuropathies, including carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS), in individuals whose daily routines are heavily reliant on computer-based activities. Methods: A comprehensive review of the literature was undertaken to assess the correlation between the use of computer input devices and the incidence of compressive neuropathies in the upper limbs, with particular attention to repetitive strain, ergonomic posture deviations, and personal risk factors. Results: Current evidence indicates a potential association between prolonged computer use and the development of upper limb compressive neuropathies; however, a definitive consensus within the scientific literature remains elusive. Repetitive movements and non-neutral postures appear to be significant contributing factors, particularly among individuals with predisposing risk factors. Despite increasing awareness of this issue, standardized, evidence-based clinical guidelines for the evaluation and management of work-related nerve disorders remain lacking. Conclusions: While the relationship between computer use and compressive neuropathies remains debated, healthcare professionals should be aware of the risks, particularly in individuals exposed to repetitive strain and ergonomic stress. Further research and the development of clinical guidelines are needed to better understand and manage these work-related conditions. Full article

Human Factors and Ergonomics (HF/E) play an essential role in the development of sustainable manufacturing systems. By prioritizing worker wellbeing through the mitigation of occupational hazards and the enhancement of workplace health, HF/E contributes significantly to improved system performance. In accordance with the principles of Industry 5.0 and Society 5.0, which emphasize human-centered design and wellbeing, organizations that effectively integrate HF/E principles can achieve a competitive advantage on the market. Based on a globally recognized ranking system utilized by investors in making informed decisions, the study focuses on manufacturing companies ranked by their occupational health and safety (OHS) scores, a key criterion for assessing the social dimension of company performance. This research aims to identify and analyze top-ranked companies that explicitly highlight HF/E-related benefits within their public documents and sustainability reports. The paper investigates aspects related to the integration of AI and digital technologies to enhance safety and health in manufacturing systems, with a specific focus on human presence detection in hazardous zones, improvements in machines and equipment design, occupational risk assessments, and initiatives for enhancing worker wellbeing. The findings are expected to provide compelling evidence for companies to prioritize HF/E consideration during the design and redesign phases of sustainable manufacturing systems. The paper provides significant value to non-indexed companies by offering a dual approach for improving OHS performance, based on an empirical evaluation assessment method and practical strategies for effective OHS implementation in different manufacturing industries and countries. Full article

A product development process establishes requirements not just for the new product’s quality and performance, but also for its manufacturing process, to guarantee that the item is manufactured with minimal impact. This is because, if an issue is discovered after the product has been released, the implications go beyond the expensive cost of the repair; the physical ergonomics problem can affect the worker’s comfort, productivity, and product quality. Virtual reality and digital human modeling are often employed in Industry 4.0 to evaluate ergonomics, but they are rarely used to examine physical ergonomics throughout the product development phases. Our study presents design guidelines to combine virtual reality and digital human modeling to anticipate the physical ergonomics evaluations of the assembly process while the product is still in development. Based on physical observations of body-posture angles and total effort classification, our proof of concept performed comparably to conventional methods. We also observed comparable results when we analyzed attributive factors such as hand clearance and strength. In contrast, our proof of concept has been shown to be limited for occupations involving extra ergonomic physical risk factors, such as touch perception, temperature fluctuations, or size changes. Full article

Background: Lower back pain (LBP) is defined as any recurring lumbar pain between the rib cage and the buttocks present at the time of the study. This study investigated the point prevalence, associated risk factors, and degree of disability of LBP among medical students at Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study evaluated 331 medical students using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI; used to gauge LBP degree of disability) supplemented with demographic and lifestyle questions. The respondents were mostly first-year, female, and between the ages of 17 and 21 years. Results: Analysis uncovered that Female students, extended durations of phone usage, and those who did not exercise were more likely to experience LBP (p < 0.001; p = 0.042; p = 0.001). A higher degree of disability was associated with participants older than 21 years, who used their devices for extended periods, and who slept less (β = 0.170, p = 0.006). While most students experienced LBP (73.4%), the ODI revealed that the majority were not deemed disabled (56.9%). Factors associated with LBP prevalence were not necessarily associated with a higher degree of disability per the ODI. Conclusions: LBP is highly prevalent among medical students, with several associated risk factors. Female medical students remain a significant at-risk group. These findings highlight the need for a broader intervention against LBP, such as ergonomic and lifestyle improvements that consider a multitude of factors. Full article

(1) Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a major occupational health concern in the construction industry owing to the physically demanding tasks and poor ergonomic conditions present. Limited data exist on the prevalence of WMSDs and their ergonomic determinants among construction workers in India. This study investigated the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) and the associated ergonomic risk factors among construction workers in India. (2) Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 construction workers in India. Data on musculoskeletal disorders were collected using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), and ergonomic risk was assessed using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) tool. Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with WMSDs, and Spearman’s correlation was used to assess the relationship between the REBA scores and the number of affected body regions. (3) Results: The prevalence of WMSDs was 60.4%. The most affected regions were the lower back (48%), knees (45%), shoulders (40%), and the neck (30%). The REBA scores indicated that 60% of the workers were at high or very high ergonomic risk and 30% at medium risk. Workers in the high/very high-risk category had significantly higher odds of developing WMSDs (OR = 4.5, 95% CI: 1.8–11.2, p = 0.001). Age above 40 years was also significantly associated with WMSDs (OR = 3.5, 95% CI: 1.2–10.2, p = 0.02). (4) Conclusions: This study demonstrated a high prevalence of WMSDs among Indian construction workers and established a clear association with poor ergonomic conditions. Targeted ergonomic interventions, including posture improvement, tool redesign, and safety training, are essential for reducing the risk of WMSDs in this population. Full article

Advanced technology systems and neuroelectronics for crash risk assessment and anticipation may be a promising field for advancing responsible automated driving on urban roads. In principle, there are prospects of an artificially intelligent (AI)-powered automated vehicle (AV) system that tracks the degree of perceived crash risk (as either low, mid, or high) and perceived safety. As a result, communicating (verbally or nonverbally) this information to the user based on human factor aspects should be reflected. As humans and vehicle automation systems are prone to error, we need to design advanced information and communication technologies that monitor risks and act as a mediator when necessary. One possible approach is towards designing a crash risk classification and management system. This would be through responsible AI that monitors the user’s mental states associated with risk-taking behaviour and communicates this information to the user, in conjunction with the driving environment and AV states. This concept is based on a literature review and industry experts’ perspectives on designing advanced technology systems that support users in preventing crash risk encounters due to long-term effects. Equally, learning strategies for responsible automated driving on urban roads were designed. In a sense, this paper offers the reader a meticulous discussion on conceptualising a safety-inspired ‘ergonomically responsible AI’ concept in the form of an intelligent risk assessment system (iRisk) and an AI-powered Risk information Human–Machine Interface (AI rHMI) as a useful concept for responsible automated driving and safe human–automation interaction. Full article

Introduction: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a significant occupational health concern worldwide, particularly among healthcare professionals such as laboratory technicians. MSDs lead to chronic pain, decreased productivity, and reduced quality of life. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of MSDs and associated ergonomics risk factors among Saudi clinical laboratory technicians. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 167 clinical laboratory technicians in Taif city, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected through an online self-administered questionnaire, distributed via Google Forms. The questionnaire collected demographics information, assessed the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), and evaluated ergonomics risk factors using the Dutch Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (DMQ). Results: In total, 77.3% of the sample exhibited musculoskeletal issues in the last 12 months, with lower back (52.1%), neck (48.5%), and shoulders (40.7%) being the most frequent muscular complaints among laboratory technicians. Experience and nationality showed significant associations with MSDs (p ≤ 0.05). Lower back and neck complaints were commonly recorded with multiple laboratory tasks, including sustained sitting and standing and repetitive movement, whereas lower back and shoulder pain were notably prevalent with pipetting work. Conclusions: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders were highly apparent in laboratory practice. Periodic ergonomic training is mandated among laboratory personnel to limit occupational disability. Full article

Fire extinguisher inspectors face ergonomic risk factors and are exposed to several musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). The aim of this study was to design and evaluate a mobile lift device to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries among fire extinguisher inspectors. This was followed by a quasi-experimental trial among 28 workers, using surface electromyography (EMG), in which muscle activity with percentage of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), postural analysis using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA), perceived exertion, and perceived ease of use among workers were evaluated during the fire extinguisher inspection process employing a manual fire extinguisher and using a mobile lift device. The results of the EMG measurement of the muscle activity in the biceps brachii, triceps brachii, middle deltoid, and upper trapezius were obtained using the MVC parameter. The MVC parameter was employed to normalize the EMG signals, allowing for a standardized comparison of muscle activation levels across different tasks and conditions. The results showed a significant positive effect on the muscle activity of the middle deltoid and biceps brachii; the posture risk level and rating for perceived exertion with the mobile lift device were generally lower than those of manual lifting (p < 0.001). With the mobile lift device, there was significant reduction in the muscle activity of the triceps brachii and upper trapezius (p < 0.05). Accordingly, mobile lift devices were found to be useful due to the reduced muscle effort, and postural risks were reduced when using the mobile lift device. Further studies are needed for modifications to the lift assist device based on ergonomic measures of muscle activity and user tests by adjusting the task to suit the capabilities of workers. Full article

This paper analyzes the occupational risks associated with the activities of transporting and spreading bituminous emulsion, focusing on a specific technological process used in a company in Romania. This study aims to identify risk factors, systematically evaluate them, and propose preventive measures aimed at reducing occupational accidents and diseases. The main hazards identified include exposure to hazardous chemicals, mechanical risks generated by the equipment used, and ergonomic factors that may affect workers’ health. Given the specificity of the activity analyzed, there is currently a lack of relevant studies specifically addressing the occupational safety and health of this category of workers, which further highlights the novelty and importance of the present research. Based on the results obtained, recommendations are formulated for optimizing work conditions, including the use of appropriate protective equipment, improving operational procedures, and implementing effective technical and organizational measures. This study contributes to the development of a solid preventive framework in the field of transporting and applying bituminous emulsion, thus supporting the improvement of occupational safety and health in the road construction industry. The results obtained can be used to develop more effective policies in the field of occupational safety and to raise awareness among decision-makers about the need for proactive measures in preventing occupational risks. Full article

(1) Background: The meatpacking industry in Brazil is vital for economic growth. It poses significant occupational health risks, particularly Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs). The present study analyzes the profile of slaughterhouse workers based on the governmental notification database. (2) Methods: The socio-demographic dataset (n = 820) was filled with worker data, and health profiles reported Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) and WMSDs from 2007 to 2019, available online by the Brazilian Health Service. The dataset was analyzed to identify patterns of injuries and contributing factors. Descriptive statistics outlined worker characteristics, while Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) explored associations between variables. (3) Results: The results revealed that 51.34% of workers were male, with most aged 30–45. Repetitive movements were reported by 89.63% of respondents, while 78.90% worked shifts exceeding six hours. Soft tissue disorders were the most prevalent diagnosis (40.97%). The majority (53.17%) experienced temporary disabilities, and 5.73% had permanent impairments. Key risk factors included inadequate breaks, stressful environments, and limited ergonomic adaptations. This study highlights the critical need for preventative measures, such as ergonomic interventions, adequate rest breaks, and employee education, to mitigate WMSDs. Future research should include ergonomic evaluations and consider broader organizational variables to enhance slaughterhouse occupational health and safety. Addressing these challenges is essential for improving worker welfare and maintaining industry productivity. Full article

Background: This study examined the effects of psychosocial and ergonomic risk perceptions in the hospital environment on employee health, job performance, and absenteeism. In fast-paced hospital settings, the cumulative physical and psychological demands of patient care, exacerbated by poor ergonomic conditions, can jeopardize employee well-being and compromise service quality. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among healthcare professionals in Istanbul using a multimethod approach with a quantitative emphasis. To analyze the interrelationships among these variables while controlling for demographic factors, including age and sex, structural equation modeling was employed. Results: The findings indicated that both psychological safety and favorable ergonomic conditions significantly enhanced job satisfaction, which in turn positively influenced mental health and overall job performance. Moreover, better physical health was associated with reduced absenteeism, further contributing to improved job performance. These results highlight the significance of developing supportive and ergonomically sound work environments for enhancing employee well-being, reducing absenteeism, and optimizing performance in hospital settings. Conclusions: This study offers valuable insights for hospital administrators and policymakers seeking to implement effective interventions that address psychosocial and ergonomic challenges, thereby ensuring higher quality healthcare services. Full article

Human reliability is a key factor in long-term sustainability, especially for tasks that are critical to safety. It is also evident that human behavior is often the main or significant cause of system failures. Identifying human error is challenging, particularly when it comes to determining the exact moment when an error occurred that led to an accident, as errors develop over time. It is essential to understand the causes and mechanisms of human errors. This finding is not new; for over 30 years, it has been recognized that human operations in safety-critical systems are so important that they should be modeled as part of risk assessment in operation. This article discusses various HRA methodologies and argues that further research and development are necessary. An example of selected HRA techniques will be demonstrated through a case study on acetylene filling activities. When filling acetylene into pressure vessels or cylinders, it is critically important to analyze the reliability of the human factor, as this process involves handling a highly explosive gas. Irresponsibility, lack of training, or incorrect decision-making can lead to severe accidents. Any deficiencies in this process can result in not only equipment damage but also endanger the health and lives of people nearby. This case may also suggest potential improvements to existing guidelines, international standards, and regulations, which often require the consideration of a wider range of ergonomic factors in the risk assessment process. Full article