Work - Volume 4, issue 3

Authors: Jacobs, Karen

Article Type: Other

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-1994-4301

Citation: Work, vol. 4, no. 3, pp. 155-155, 1994

Authors: Rice, Valerie J.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This article provides a brief history of the field of ergonomics and explores the interrelationship between health care and ergonomic professions. Health care practitioners contribute a unique perspective to an ergonomic research and intervention team. This singular perspective is based on knowledge of health issues, disease and injury etiology and prognosis, and the psychosocial impact of illness. Topics for collaboration between health care practitioners and ergonomists are identified.

Keywords: Ergonomics, Human factors, Work, Rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-1994-4302

Citation: Work, vol. 4, no. 3, pp. 156-161, 1994

Authors: Sharp, Marilyn A. | Knapik, J.J. | Schoppert, A.W.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Energy cost and crew performance were studied during a 45-hour continuous field-artillery loading exercise using a howitzer simulator. An interrupted peak $\dot{V}_{0_{2}}$ test, conducted in the simulator, was used to develop individualized equations to predict energy cost from heart rate. Nine experienced crew members rotated through six 1.5-hour loading cycles. Mission time (the time elapsed from the order to fire until task completion) was recorded and summed over cycles. Measures made at the end of each cycle included profile of mood state (POMS); rating of perceived exertion (RPE); rating of pain, soreness, and discomfort (RPSD); and isometric hand-grip …strength. Results showed a significant decrease (p<0.01) in energy cost (8.0−6.2 kcal·min−1 ) and mission time (28.1−24.3 min) from Cycle 1 to Cycle 6. The POMS revealed an increase in fatigue and tension and a decrease in vigor (p<0.05); RPE increased (p<0.05) over time as did RPSD reported for the shoulders, arms, and hands (p<0.05). Isometric hand-grip strength decreased 8.6% (p<0.05) from Cycle 1 to Cycle 6. The efficiency of howitzer loading performance increased; however, the changes in RPE, POMS, hand-grip, and RPSD suggest that longer duration exercises may result in performance decrements. These data indicate that simulators can improve the performance of this task. Show more

Keywords: Sustained work, Energy cost, Efficiency, Simulator, Exertion, Muscle contraction

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-1994-4303

Citation: Work, vol. 4, no. 3, pp. 162-170, 1994

Authors: Stevens, Karen L.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Hand therapists perform hand-intensive work and engage in tasks that require movements and postures cited in the literature to be risk factors for the development of cumulative trauma disorders. This study was conducted to determine the incidence, prevalence, and types of work-related cumulative trauma disorders of the hand, wrist, and elbow experienced by occupational therapists whose primary area of practice is hand therapy. A survey was sent to a national random sample of 289 occupational therapists, 227 of whom responded. A total of 328 upper-extremity injuries/syndromes were reported by 165 (79 %) of the respondents; 62 % of those injuries …occurred as a result of cumulative work trauma. This study identified hand therapy as another occupation where cumulative trauma disorders are common. It is crucial that hand therapists become cognizant of their occupational risks and limitations so that such painful and disabling conditions can be prevented. Show more

Keywords: Cumulative trauma disorder, Occupational therapy, Hand therapy, Carpal tunnel syndrome

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-1994-4304

Citation: Work, vol. 4, no. 3, pp. 171-179, 1994

Authors: Miller, Janice M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: By tracing office (computer-related) trends from the 1960s through the 1990s, one can extract the reasons for the dramatic rise in workplace injuries that result from poor ergonomic conditions. Much confusion continues to exist surrounding the notion of ergonomics, and employers are afraid to plunge in and implement an ergonomic program. Ergonomists have highlighted three key areas for consideration: motion/exercise, support, and neutral positioning. This article examines several products that meet those recommendations and promote proper work habits.

Keywords: Motion/exercise, Neutral positioning, Sit/stand concept, Support

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-1994-4305

Citation: Work, vol. 4, no. 3, pp. 180-186, 1994

Authors: Perez-Balke, Graciela | Buchholz, Bryan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Commercial wrist splints do not constitute an ergonomic control for stressors associated with carpal tunnel syndrome. The science of ergonomics seeks to change the environment, not the human, in an effort to fit the work requirements to the capabilities of the individual. In contrast, immobilization of the wrist seeks to change the worker while the work environment exposures remain unchanged. Given this caveat, do wrist splints play a preventive role in the work environment with respect to the control of physical stressors that are likely to cause or exacerbate carpal tunnel syndrome? In an effort to provide an answer to …this question, this article will provide a short synopsis of carpal tunnel syndrome as it relates to its diagnosis, occurrence in industry, and conservative treatment; a brief review of splinting as conservative treatment and an overview of the effect of wrist immobilization on physical stressors. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, Carpal tunnel syndrome, Splint, Orthoses, Wrist, Cumulative trauma disorder

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-1994-4306

Citation: Work, vol. 4, no. 3, pp. 187-194, 1994

Authors: King, Phyllis M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Participatory ergonomics is a relatively new strategy employed by work-injury management professionals to effect organizational change and reduce workplace injuries. This method is based on group dynamics theory involving employee and management participation in decision making. A review of the literature on the properties of participation suggests that the most effective strategy for participation is one that incorporates informal, direct, high-access, and long-term aspects. The ergonomic consultant must review participation as a concept that takes on different meanings depending upon the properties emphasized and the context in which it is implemented.

Keywords: Participation, Ergonomics, Group dynamics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-1994-4307

Citation: Work, vol. 4, no. 3, pp. 195-200, 1994

Authors: Rice, Valerie J. | Sharp, Marilyn A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Pre-placement screening for physically demanding jobs should result in better job performance and fewer injuries, if the test components reflect job demands. The purpose of this study was to determine how seven strength measures, three Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) scores, and three physical descriptors relate to performance on two stretcher-carry tasks: 1) a repeated short-distance carry and 2) a continuous long-distance carry. Twelve men and 11 women completed both tasks with and without (hand-carry) a shoulder harness. Pearson product moment correlation coefficients compared independent variables and forward stepwise multiple regression analyses were used for predictions. For repeated short distance …stretcher-carrying, two-mile run time and handgrip were the best predictors of performance (hand-carry: r2 =0.79, p<0.01; harness-carry: r2 =0.75, p<0.01). The grip, which was more predictive during the hand-carry, required a sudden maximal contraction to peak force, followed by immediate release, while a sudden maximal contraction to peak force maintained for four seconds, was more predictive of the harness-carry. For the continuous hand-carry, the best predictor was a gradual buildup to a 6-second sustained grip strength (r2 =0.74, p<0.01). These results illustrate the necessity for tailoring preplacement tests to accurately reflect job demands. Show more

Keywords: Preplacement, Selection, Performance assessment, Muscular strength

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-1994-4308

Citation: Work, vol. 4, no. 3, pp. 201-210, 1994

Authors: Rice, Valerie J.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This article is an information update on certification in the practice of ergonomics. Ergonomic certification is currently being conducted by the Board of Certification in Professional Ergonomics for ergonomics/human factors practitioners. Ergonomic certification is also being discussed as a possibility for health care professionals by the National Interdisciplinary Committee on Health Ergonomics and the Medical Ergonomics Society.

Keywords: Ergonomics, Certification, Health care

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-1994-4309

Citation: Work, vol. 4, no. 3, pp. 211-213, 1994

Authors: McCormack, James E. | Tello, Steven F.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Environmental control units and home automation devices contribute to the independence and potential of individuals with disabilities, both at work and at home. Devices currently exist that can assist people with physical, cognitive, and sensory disabilities to control lighting, appliances, temperature, security, and telephone communications. This article highlights several possible applications for these technologies and discusses emerging technologies that will increase the benefits these devices offer people with disabilities.

Keywords: Assistive technology, Environmental control, Workplace accommodation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-1994-4310

Citation: Work, vol. 4, no. 3, pp. 214-219, 1994