Work - Volume 41, issue Supplement 1

Authors: Ribeiro, Sânzia Bezerra | Cárdia, Maria Claudia Gatto | Almeida, Lais Cristina

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The objective present study was to investigate the presence of low back pain in caregivers of a nursing home, related with the labored activities executed by these workers. 16 subjects were investigated, 15 female and one male, with 40,8 age average all being caregivers as their profession. It consisted of three phases, where the first concerns the analysis of the collective work, assessed in a perspective of caregivers, Second, a postural assessment to verify the retractions in such workers and the third stage was used Diagram of Corllet to identify the presence of signs and symptoms in caregivers. The study …demonstrated that organizational and biomechanical factors are responsible for the high level of physical fatigue and presence of pain in 93,75% of the caregivers in some region of the body. 50% referred pain in the lumbar region. The results of the postural evaluation confirmed that the caregivers had alterations in the postural alignment, presenting retractions of the anterior and posterior chain. The suggestions are to minimize the risk factors of this productive process and the symptoms and signals presented from these workers by adoption ergonomic measures and the realization of a physical program with stretching and muscular strengthening of the muscles of thee anterior and posterior body chain based on the method of Reorganization Postural Sensoperceptive . Show more

Keywords: low back pain, caregivers, enderly, overload work

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0410-1933

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 1933-1939, 2012

Authors: Hermanson, James E. | Choi, Sang D.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Due to the cost and time benefits associated with patients and physicians, outpatient surgeries continue to become more and more popular over time. With the increase in the number of office-based surgical procedures, the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) associated with office-based surgeries has been reported. The purpose of this pilot study is to ergonomically evaluate the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders of physicians/surgeons performing office-based surgery (OBS). Ergonomic assessment tools included Questionnaire, the BodyMap and the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment for measuring potential ergonomic concerns. The findings have shown that the ergonomic issues of greatest concerns were the …discomforts in the neck, shoulders, arms/wrists, and back. Some additional comments were provided by the participants regarding the duration of discomfort or clarification on the frequency of their body discomfort. This study suggests that there is a considerable risk of musculoskeletal injuries of physicians/surgeons performing the OBS tasks. By properly using the ergonomic assessment techniques, valuable information on ergonomic OBS workplace design and selection could assist in the early interventions of WMSD prevention. Show more

Keywords: ergonomic assessment, body discomfort, work posture, musculoskeletal disorders, healthcare

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0411-1940

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 1940-1943, 2012

Authors: Yu, Denny | Sackllah, Michael | Woolley, Charles | Kasten, Steven | Armstrong, Thomas

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to present a quantitative posture analysis of microsurgery tasks performed with different visualization methods. Microsurgery is traditionally performed using a binocular microscope; however surgeons are constrained by the optical eyepieces and are forced to assume joint angles that deviate away from neutral postures. This may be especially problematic for the neck and can increase surgeon discomfort and fatigue. Alternative visualization methods may improve surgeon posture by eliminating the constraints imposed by the microscope. This study examines both 2D and 3D heads-up displays as possible alternatives. Six subjects performed microsurgical tasks with each visualization methods …for four hours. Quantitative posture analysis was done using Maxtraq software that tracks reflective markers on the subjects. The initial analysis of neck, upper arm, and elbow angles found significant differences between each display. A biomechanical analysis found that the differences in angles can result in loads on the neck joint that are twice as high in the microscope than the headsup displays. Although the alternative displays can result in better postures, improvements the display technology is needed to improve microsurgical task performance. Show more

Keywords: microscope, heads-up display, posture analysis, surgery

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0412-1944

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 1944-1947, 2012

Authors: Samaras, George M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Healthcare information technology (HIT) is being offered as a transformer of modern healthcare delivery systems. Some believe that it has the potential to improve patient safety, increase the effectiveness of healthcare delivery, and generate significant cost savings. In other industrial sectors, information technology has dramatically influenced quality and profitability – sometimes for the better and sometimes not. Quality improvement efforts in healthcare delivery have not yet produced the dramatic results obtained in other industrial sectors. This may be that previously successful quality improvement experts do not possess the requisite domain knowledge (clinical experience and expertise). It also appears related to …a continuing misconception regarding the origins and meaning of work errors in healthcare delivery. The focus here is on system use errors rather than individual user errors. System use errors originate in both the development and the deployment of technology. Not recognizing stakeholders and their conflicting needs, wants, and desires (NWDs) may lead to stakeholder dissonance. Mistakes translating stakeholder NWDs into development or deployment requirements may lead to latent errors. Mistakes translating requirements into specifications may lead to drift errors. At the sharp end, workers encounter system use errors or, recognizing the risk, expend extensive and unanticipated resources to avoid them. Show more

Keywords: human factors, healthcare, technology, quality, improvement

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0413-1948

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 1948-1955, 2012

Authors: Nascimento, Adelaide | Falzon, Pierre

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The purpose of this article is to understand the way in which medical physicists take into account treatment effectiveness and safety when selecting a treatment plan, with respect to the medical prescription and the technical, human and organizational resources available. Data-gathering was based on the allo-confrontation method: 14 medical physicists from five different treatment centers commented on real treatment plans that had been drawn up by their colleagues. Results show that medical physicists have two means at their disposal to control treatment effectiveness and safety: risk avoidance and risk reduction. Risk avoidance is achieved when conceiving the solution. Risk reduction …occurs after the design of the plan and consists in accompanying and assisting the radiographers at the work station where the treatment is carried out. Show more

Keywords: safety, effectiveness, quality, radiotherapy

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0414-1956

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 1956-1960, 2012

Authors: Smith, Thomas J.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This paper reports a comparative study of occupancy and patient care quality in four types of intensive care units in a children’s hospital,: an Infant Care Center (ICC), a Medical/Surgical (Med/Surg) unit, a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), each featuring a mix of multi-bed and private room (PR) patient care environments. The project is prompted by interest by the project sponsor in a pre-occupancy analysis, before the units are upgraded to exclusive PR designs. Methods comprised, for each unit: (1) observations of ergonomic design features; (2) task activity analyses of job performance of …selected staff; and (3) use of a survey to collect perceptions by unit nursing and house staff (HS) of indicators of occupancy and patient care quality. Conclusions: (1) the five most common task activities are interaction with patients, charting, and interaction with equipment, co-workers and family members; (2) job satisfaction, patient care, work environment, job, patient care team interaction, and general occupancy quality rankings by ICC and/or NICU respondents are significantly higher than those by other staff respondents; and (3) ergonomic design shortcomings noted are excess noise, problems with equipment, and work environment, job-related health, and patient care quality issues. Show more

Keywords: intensive care, private room design, occupancy quality

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0415-1961

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 1961-1968, 2012

Authors: Van der Molen, Henk F. | Zwinderman, Koos AH | Sluiter, Judith K. | Frings-Dresen, Monique H.W.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Needle stick injuries (NSIs) are frequently reported as occupational injuries among health care workers. The health effects of a NSI can be significant when blood-to-blood contact occurs from patient to health care worker. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the number of NSIs decreased among health care workers at risk in one Dutch academic hospital after introduction of injection needles with safety devices in combination with an interactive workshop. In a cluster threearmed randomized controlled trial, 23 hospital divisions (n=796 health care workers) were randomly assigned to a group that was subjected to the use of a …‘safety device plus workshop’, to a group that was subjected to a ‘workshop only’ or to a control group with no intervention. The combined intervention of the introduction of needle safety devices and an interactive workshop led to the highest reduction in the number of self-reported NSIs compared to a workshop alone or no intervention. For practice, the use of relatively simple protective needle safety devices and interactive communication are effective measures for reducing NSI’s. Show more

Keywords: needle stick injuries, prevention, health care

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0416-1969

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 1969-1971, 2012

Authors: Cuvelier, L. | Falzon, P. | Granry, J.C. | Moll, M.C.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This study aims to describe how anesthesia teams handle unforeseen events that may affect the patients’ health. More precisely, it investigates the mechanisms of decisions made by anesthesia teams to manage unthought-of situations, i.e. situations that have not been foreseen as “possible” ones before their occurrence. An empirical study, based on the analysis of simulated situations, was conducted in a pediatric anesthesia service of a university hospital in France. The results highlighted three ways of managing unthought-of situations (determined management, cautious management and overwhelmed management). They support the hypothesis of a collective cognitive trade-off, whereby teams would behave as virtual …operators, with their own collective trade-off between "understanding" and "doing". The discussion of the results questions the assessment criteria, the safety perspectives we adopt and the possible ways to improve the management of unforeseen situations. Show more

Keywords: patient safety, adaptive safety, simulation, team work, unexpectedness

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0417-1972

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 1972-1979, 2012

Authors: Moody, Louise | Woodcock, Andree | Heelis, Mike | Chichi, Cynthia | Fielden, Simon | Stefanov, Dimitar

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Wheelchair users experience many situations that affect the stability and associated performance of their wheelchair. Stability is affected by user characteristics and abilities, environmental features and conditions, and wheelchair modification and accessories. Wheelchair prescribers need effective tools and methods to provide quantitative evaluation and prediction of the behavior of the user-wheelchair system in a variety of static and dynamic situations. Such information is very important to guide efficient management of associated risks and adjust chairs accordingly. This project involves a user-centered approach for design and evaluation of a load cell based wheelchair stability assessment system (Wheel-SAS). Here, the current methods …for assessing stability are described, and their shortcomings explained. The user-centered design approach being applied to the development of the associated Wheel-SAS hardware and software is described. Future work including semi-structured interviews and an online survey with wheelchair prescribers and associated healthcare professionals for deriving user requirements and a design specification for a load cell system for measuring dynamic wheelchair stability are detailed. Show more

Keywords: wheelchair stability assessment, wheelchair prescription, Wheel-SAS

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0418-1980

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 1980-1984, 2012

Authors: Willemen, Tim | Van Deun, Dorien | Verhaert, Vincent | Pirrera, Sandra | Exadaktylos, Vasileios | Verbraecken, Johan | Haex, Bart | Sloten, Jos Vander

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Ergonomic sleep studies benefit from long-term monitoring in the home environment to cope with daily variations and habituation effects. Polysomnography allows to asses sleep accurately, but is costly, time-consuming and possibly disturbing for the sleeper. Actigraphy is cheap and user friendly, but for many studies lacks accuracy and detailed information. This proof-of-concept study investigates Least-Squares Support Vector Machines as a tool for automatic sleep stage classification (Wake-N1-Rem to N2-N3 separation), using automatic trainingset-specific filtered features as derived from three easy to register signals, namely heart rate, breathing rate and movement. The algorithms are trained and validated using 20 nights out …of a 600 night database from over 100 different healthy persons. Different training and test set strategies were analyzed leading to different results. The more person-specific the training nights to the test nights, the better the classification accuracy as validated against the hypnograms scored by experts from the full polysomnograms. In the limit of complete person-specific training, the accuracy of the algorithm on the test set reached 94%. This means that this algorithm could serve its use in long-term monitoring sleep studies in the home environment, especially when prior person-specific polysomnographic training is performed. Show more

Keywords: LS-SVM, actigraphy, polysomnography

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0419-1985

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 1985-1989, 2012

Authors: Luz, Taciana Ramos | de Oliveira Echternacht, Eliza Helena

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This study aims to describe the painfulness applied to situations of teaching-learning of a Big Band in a School of Music of a Brazilian Federal University. Moreover, the concept of what painful noise is will be developed, applied to this context. After Ergonomic Work Analysis [2], the following variables were selected to characterize the painful noise: volume, height, frequency, sound confluence and reverberation. To relate the influence of painful noise on modes operatives, were explained the operative strategies used by teacher and students during the performance in group of this Big Band.

Keywords: painful, insalubrities, noise, musicians, Big Band

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0420-1990

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 1990-1993, 2012

Authors: Smith, Jan R. | Lombard, Wesley R. | Shaba, Moses N.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Accurate sound source localization has advantages for the performance of work by humans. The ability to accurately localize sound sources contributes to perception, decision making and task performance. Two studies were conducted to investigate the prevalence of accurate sound source localization and the enhancement that spatially separated sound source locations can have on speech perception. The first study was conducted to characterize the ability to detect the location of horizontal plane sound sources. A sample of 117 participants with the hearing capacity within the normal limits participated in the study. The results indicated that sound sources located towards the front …of the participant were identified more frequently than those sound sources located towards the rear positions. Based on the results found in the first study, a second study was conducted to assess performance within a listening task. Three different spatial configurations were used to assess if similar trends in performance translated to sound sources through headphones. Fifteen research participants performed a Coordinated Response Measure (CRM) task requiring the identification of a speech phrase and its associated information for a diotic configuration and two different spatial sound source configurations. Performance measured for the diotic configuration was significantly (p(0.05) less than for the two spatial configurations. The current studies indicate distinct advantages of utilizing localized sound sources to present auditory signal and speech to listeners. Show more

Keywords: diotic, binaural, CRM

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0421-1994

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 1994-2000, 2012

Authors: Campos, Izabel Carolina Martins | da Cruz Serafim, Alessandra | Custódio, Kamilla Valler | da Silva, Lizandra | Cruz, Roberto Moraes

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Programs geared towards the occupational health of public workers, that include the prevention of moral harassment, have been created in Santa Catarina. Any institution identified for its poor records in regards to moral harassment will end up having its image tainted before society at large. This is due to its use of arbitrary and embarrassing means for accomplishing everyday tasks. This article aims to consider Workplace Psychological Harassment (WPH), its risks and implications for the health of public workers. The methodology chosen was a teacher’s case study, which consisted of document research, interviews, anamnesis and observation, all in order to …relate both theory and practice. The results indicate that WPH is a complex phenomenon, which can be studied in a variety of ways. WPH risks the biopsychosocial health of the worker, causing the deterioration in social-professional relations, illness, and incapacity, as well as higher costs and certain degradation in production. It is difficult to prove incidents and their impact. Nevertheless, this research concluded that WPH has harmful consequences for the physical and mental health of workers, and is in the ergonomic field, since part of this profession’s role is to seek understanding of work in order to reorganize it. Show more

Keywords: moral harassment, illness, teaching, public employee

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0422-2001

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2001-2007, 2012

Authors: Goossens, R.H.M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: It is well known that people that sit or lie down for prolonged periods change their posture on a regular basis. Even when people are asleep on average 20-40 postural can be observed during an 8 hours period of night rest. One of the reasons that can be found in literature for this ‘urge to move’ is that these movements are necessary to persevere the blood flow in the tissue. The aim of this paper is to study the relation between tissue perfusion and pressure on the tissue and frequency of the load cycle. Each subject is subjected to a …treatment scheme that varies in pressure and frequency of the load on the tissue. The pressure levels that are used are 2.7 kPa, 4.0 kPa and 5.3 kPa and the frequency levels that are used are loading/unloading at intervals of 5 min., 10 min., 15 min. Statistics shows that for 2.7 kPa there is a significant reduction of blood flow between time intervals of 5 min. and 10 min. (P=0.028), and 5 min. and 15 min. (p=0.009). Statistics also shows that there is no significant reduction in blood flow at the time interval of 10 minutes, for every level of pressure. This series of measurements seems to suggest that at the time interval of 10 minutes for every level of pressure the blood flow does not decrease compared to the start situation. Show more

Keywords: bed, mattress, blood perfusion

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0423-2008

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2008-2011, 2012

Authors: Draicchio, Francesco | Silvetti, Alessio | Forzano, Federico | Iavicoli, Sergio | Ranavolo, Alberto

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This study analyzed a post office clerk’s tasks, comparing two workstation models. The clerk was facing the client in one, and seated at 45° to the counter in the other. We analyzed the most frequent tasks and those presenting the most critical points: 1) payment of a postal order; 2) accepting a registered letter, breaking them down into subtasks. We used an optoelectronic system for kinematic analysis, and calculated the range of motion of the trunk and arms in the three spatial planes. The 45( position required less torsion of the trunk and head when using the printer, placed to …the left of the employee. A larger worktop improved the workstation, leaving more room for equipment and allowing the worker to sit frontally to the monitor. However, this solution involved a shorter distance between the worker and the client with longer extension of the shoulder and elbow and less trunk flexion. These findings suggested a modification in the layout that shortens the distance between the worker and client. Show more

Keywords: ergonomic redesign, biomechanics, posture

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0424-2012

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2012-2016, 2012

Authors: Sá, Maria Manuel | Azevedo, Rui | Martins, Maria Cristina | Machado, Osvaldo | Tavares, João

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This study aims to create awareness, both within the scientific community and among providers of sports facilities, for individuals with impaired or reduced mobility, promoting the development of technical solutions that allow greater autonomy and social integration of people with disabilities. The purpose of this work is, on the one hand, to evaluate the accessibility of sports facilities for people with reduced mobility and, on the other hand, to investigate why this user group has such low rates of participation in sporting activities. Firstly, using the Portuguese norms and legislation transcribed from European Community directives, a check list was created …comprising all the items that sports facilities should abide by in order to provide accessibility and safety to people with reduced mobility. Another questionnaire was designed aimed at this user group, with questions pertaining to their desire and ability to use sports facilities. This questionnaire was distributed in Portugal, in the greater metropolitan area of Porto, to users of Rehabilitation Centres and Physiotherapy Clinics. The results obtained from the check-list showed the compliances and non-compliances of the respective sports facilities, proving that many barriers preventing the participation of people with reduced mobility still exist. Twenty-four people with permanent impairment of the lower extremities (paraplegia) answered the questionnaire pertaining to the desire and ability to perform physical activity. Two individuals (8%) had sporting activities available to them in their area of residence and only five (21%) performed any physical activity. The main reason given for not taking part in any activity was the lack of adapted sports facilities. All the participants felt that taking part in sports is beneficial. The benefits stated were: general well-being and development of the psychomotor component (e.g. coordination, balance, body posture), of physical condition (e.g. strength, resistance, flexibility) and social integration and quality of life. Besides wellbeing, they also mentioned social interaction, a way of occupying their time and an escape from the routine as the main motives for which they would like to take up physical exercise. Show more

Keywords: accessibility, safety, sports facilities, conditioned mobility

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0425-2017

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2017-2023, 2012

Authors: Tosetto, Thaís | Orsi, Flávia Giuntini

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Among the indicators of Decent Work in Brazil, the one referring to the "Safe Working Environment" was the only which had no improvement in the time series analyzed by the International Labor Organisation. There is an increased number of accidents with significant economic and social impacts. Given that many of these accidents involve the hands and cause functional sequels, this paper presents an integration between the approaches of Hand Therapy and Ergonomics in order to facilitate the process of rehabilitation and reintegration, as well as acting to prevent further accidents, thus contributing to the promotion of Decent Work in the …country, particularly with regard to safety and health at work and equal opportunities. Show more

Keywords: integration, vocational rehabilitation, hand therapy, ergonomics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0426-2024

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2024-2029, 2012

Authors: Fraysse, François | Daniell, Nathan | Paul, Gunther

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Bedsores (ulcers) are caused by multiple factors which include, but are not limited to; pressure, shear force, friction, temperature, age and medication. Specialised support services, such as specialised mattresses, sheepskin coverings etc., are thought to decrease or relieve pressure, resulting in a lowering of pressure ulcer incidence [3]. The primary aim of this study was to compare the upper/central body pressure distribution between normal lying in a hospital bed versus the use of a pressure redistribution belt. The study involved 16 healthy voluntary subjects lying on a hospital bed with and without wearing the belt. Results showed that the use …of a pressure redistribution belt results in reduced pressure peaks and prevents the pressure from increasing over time. Show more

Keywords: pressure ulcers, bedsores, pressure mapping, pressure redistribution

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0427-2030

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2030-2036, 2012

Authors: Park, Sung | Yim, Jinho | Lee, Goeun

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Long-term use of medical imaging devices requires significant improvements to the user experience. One factor that impact upon such experience is whether the device is ergonomically built, ecologically designed, and leverages the current medical practice. In this research, we took a holistic and systematic approach to design an effective and biomechanically-fit ultrasound system. Research methods from behavior science (e.g., contextual inquiry, pseudo experiments) had been adopted to involve the users (sonographers) early in the design process. The end results – product design guideline for a cart type ultrasound system and control panel layout – were reviewed by the users and …adjusted so that the design is within the range of an acceptable learning curve while maintaining innovativeness, a differentiated value over competitor’s ultrasound devices. Show more

Keywords: antropometrics, biomechanics, contextual inquiry, ergonomics, medical device, product design, user experience, user research, system design

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0428-2037

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2037-2042, 2012

Authors: Marquezea, Elaine C | Lemosa, Lucia C | Soaresa, Nilson | Lorenzi-Filhob, Geraldo | Morenoa, Claudia R.C.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objective: To investigate the relationship between working at night and increased body weight in nursing. In addition, we evaluated the differences in the proportion of variables sociodemographic, work and health, according to the work shift and their association with body mass index. Methods: Based on questionnaires, we obtained data from 446 nursing professionals about aspects of their job, health and lifestyle. We performed linear and logistic regression analysis. Results: Working at night is associated with a weight gain greater than (β=0.24 kg/m2) working during the day (β=0.15 kg/m2), as well as with aging (β=0.16 kg/m2) and duration of working in …nursing (β=0.18 kg/m2). Night workers have a higher educational level, have been working for more years in nursing and also in the current shift, do not have diabetes and have reported longer sleep than day workers. There are also a higher number of smokers among the night workers than day workers. Logistic regression analysis also showed the more time to work in nursing and as an assistant was more likely to develop overweight/obesity. Conclusion: Working at the night contributes to more weight gain than the day shift, aging and duration of working in nursing. Show more

Keywords: shift work, weight gain, nursing professionals, night work, body mass index

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0429-2043

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2043-2048, 2012

Authors: Borba, A | Santos, A | Santos, Y | Porto, F

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Respiratory disease in childhood is a factor of concern to health professionals, resulting in a primary determinant of lung function in adulthood. Studies indicate that people placed in areas with established industries, are exposed to pollutants from many industrial processes, thus increasing the risk of diseases. The aim was to examine the connection between exposure to cement and the incidence of respiratory diseases in the Jardins Community. It was a field study, descriptive, conducted in a community in the city of Cabedelo- PB, and result in a qualitative-quantitative approach. The sample comprised 51 children aged between 1 to 12 years …who have symptoms or diagnosis of respiratory disease. The survey data was obtained by applying a semistructured interview, and analysed using chi-square, MacNemar and Mann-Whitney tests for statistical analysis. A high number of complaints about environmental pollution, small houses and subdued, lack of paving and sanitation, a high frequency of respiratory symptoms and especially the occurrence of the onset of symptoms after arrival in the community were found. There is a correlation between environmental exposure and the incidence of respiratory diseases in children; therefore the community requires specific actions to reduce the exposure. Show more

Keywords: Environmental Pollutants, Environmental Illness, Health Profile

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-1015-2049

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2049-2055, 2012

Authors: Comper, Maria Luiza C. | Costa, Leonardo O.P. | Padula, Rosimeire S.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Most instruments used by occupational safety and health professionals have been originally developed in English. Cross-cultural adaptation enables the use of these instruments in other countries, cultures and languages in countries like Brazil, where the official language is not English. This methodology ensures that the translation process includes the cultural and linguistic equivalence between the original instrument and the translated version. Therefore, this study aimed to translate and cross-culturally adapt the instrument Quick Exposure Check (QEC) into Brazilian-Portuguese. The process of cross-cultural adaptation followed the steps of translation, synthesis, back-translation, expert committee review and pretesting. The final questionnaire was pretested …by two raters in 40 workers employed in an expedition of knitting and textile industry. All versions resulting from the translation process (T1, T2) and back-translation (BT1, BT2) showed good agreement. During the pre-test was not presented any difficulty in understanding or completing the instrument adapted QEC for Brazilian language. Show more

Keywords: musculoskeletal disorders, ergonomic risk factors, occupational health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0430-2056

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2056-2059, 2012

Authors: Campos, Izabel C. Martins | da Silva, Lizandra | Trevisan, Rafaela Luiza | Cruz, Roberto Moraes

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Moral Harassment at Work (MHW) is considered a recurrent practice of humiliation, mockery, isolation, persecution and psychological torture. Its results go beyond the worker private life: represent financial loss, affects the work, the organization, the productivity and the society. This article aims to develop a model of MHW, which characterizes the main components of the phenomenon and their nexus with the inability to work. For this, the Literature field is consulted, in order to identify systematically, the MHW components and their risky factors. The results showed a multifaceted model which demonstrates: the aggressor/victim and the configuration of the Moral Harassment …at Work causes. The management of the degraded work. The characteristic features of the inability to work, caused on the victim. The MHW modalities and as a final product, the integration among these components. It is expected that this model can help the Ergonomist comprehending this phenomenon and contribute on the creation of some strategies of prevention on the workplace. It is concluded that the removal or minimization of this occupational risks requires some changes on the job organization, on the people`s behaviour, the leadership styles, on the humanization of the social labor relationship and on the coping this problem. Show more

Keywords: moral harassment at work, degraded work, ergonomics, inability to work, theoretical model

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0431-2060

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2060-2067, 2012

Authors: da Silva, Charles Ricardo Leite | Soares, Marcelo Marcio

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This research deals with the design of leaflets of medicines, evidencing the problems resulting from the lack of Brazilian normalization to promote the use of the graphical representation of instructional texts warnings. It approaches studies related to the effectiveness and efficiency of information systems, highlighting the semiotics and the cultural and informational ergonomics. The analysis of the context uses as method, an analytical study on selected warnings of thirty leaflets of medicines, followed by interviews lead with the public managers involved with the regulation of the pharmaceutical companies, and two experiments with users performed in city of Recife, in State …of Pernambuco: one aiming at to identify how they interact with the leaflets of medicines, and the second one testing their understanding concerning standardized illustrations in the United States and the South Africa. The results show the need for improvements in presentation and graphic representation of leaflets of medicines, powering them to the role of communication, to ensure the consumption of medicine safely by its users. The conclusion congregates parameters and recommendations for the graphic representation of warnings in leaflets of medicines in Brazil. Show more

Keywords: medicines, ergonomics, visual representation, cultural ergonomics, public health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0432-2068

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2068-2071, 2012

Authors: Wilkowsk, Wiktoria | Ziefle, Martina | AlagÖZ, Firat

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: In recent years, due to the demographical change and the resulting overload of healthcare systems, there has been an increasing interest focusing on the global proliferation of assistive medical technologies (=E-health) in home environments. The present study examines how users’ diversity influences the readiness to adopt novel medical technologies, comparing users’ attitudes in terms of perceived advantages and disadvantages in three technically and culturally different countries: Germany, Poland and Turkey. This investigation also intended to verify if acceptance of information and communication technologies is associated with the sensitive acceptance of E-health. Results revealed overall a considerably higher motivation to use …medical technology compared to perceived barriers, with Polish users more willing to use E-health, higher than German or Turkish ones. Older participants showed a highly positive attitude, comparable to young and middle-aged respondents’ receptiveness, differing from the latter in terms of greater appreciation of the advantage of higher independency when being supported by medical technology. With respect to gender, woman showed higher motivation to use E-health technology than men, although utilization barriers were not gendered. Following these results, an unconditional transfer of acceptance from information and communication to medical technology is not justified. Show more

Keywords: aging, E-health technology, culture, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0433-2072

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2072-2080, 2012

Authors: Po-Chan, Yeh | Cherng-Yee, Leung

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Walker operation completely relies on the walker handle, however most marketed walkers possess two horizontal handles. Several researchers have suggested that horizontal handles might lead to wrist injury. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to assess the relevant design aspects of walker for elderly people. 28 elders participated in this study; when the experiment was started, subject walked on the tile for 3 meter distance twice by using walker. Data for analysis were selected at the corresponding wrist deviation and vertical force. The results showed that during walker using, the mean wrist deviation was greater than zero. The largest …vertical force is significantly larger than the smallest one, and different wrist deviation occurred at three phases, the largest wrist deviation while raising walker is larger than the smallest one, however, no significant different was found between the largest and smallest wrist deviation while pressing walker. No significant correlation occurred between weight and wrist deviation. The correlation between weight and vertical force was significantly positive. With wrist deviation walker use may cause injury to upper-limb, however wrists remain in a neutral position during hand movement to prevent damage. The findings of this study should improve the design of walker handles to reduce the wrist deviations of users. Show more

Keywords: walker, aging, wrist deviation, handle design

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0434-2081

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2081-2085, 2012

Authors: Goossens, R.H.M. | Netten, M.P. | Van der Doelen, B.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Since the introduction of ergonomic guidelines in the design of office chairs, a lot of effort has been put in designing these office chairs accordingly. Because these features all have to be adjusted in different ways (mostly a knob underneath the seat surface), and because every office chair offers different solutions, often users do not use all of the adjustments, and thus do not use the office chair an the optimal ergonomic way. The aim of this paper is to study the influence of feedback on sitting habits of office workers in a field test during 4 weeks. 40 office …workers were selected for this test (13 male, 27 female). They were divided in three groups. A control group, a group that received a sitting instruction and a group that received sitting instruction and feedback on their posture every hour that they sit. The results show that there is an effect in average increase in basic posture on both the group that received instruction and the group that received feedback. This effect decreases over time. There was no effect in the control group. Show more

Keywords: sitting instruction, field study, smart technology

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0435-2086

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2086-2088, 2012

Authors: An, Vatana | Soares, Marcelo

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: A usability evaluation technique to evaluate user interfaces is introduces. The technique is effective and affordable for small manufacturing companies. By using this technique, an integration of users’ feedbacks and some usability concepts, a product can be 3 times easier to use among potential users and more than 5 times easier to use among motivated users. In addition, the technique can be implemented with the company’s employees as participants.

Keywords: interface, improvement, evaluate, deliver, result

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0436-2089

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2089-2096, 2012

Authors: Biquand, Sylvain | Zittel, Benoit

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is now considered in large and global companies and the recent publication of the ISO 26000 standard clarifies the targets. Based on our consultancy’s experience for fifteen years in ergonomics mainly in French small and medium enterprises, we developed a label to coax and value efforts of companies in dealing with health and safety at the work place as required by ISO 26000 paragraph 6.4. The formal approach of ISO describes what should be achieved but gives no cue on how actual conditions of work should be improved. The label, called Démarche T (ie Process W …where W stands for work) aims the management of work conditions as a process, giving visibility and credit to companies for their continuous involvement in the matter. We describe the items and processes that are part of our assessment. We first conduct an ergonomic diagnosis including the analysis of records on health, physical and psychological well-being, observations at the workplace and interviews with the workers. This diagnosis is followed by recommendations. The fulfillment of these is assessed yearly. Items under assessment include: - ergonomics, health and safety in the companies statements and their impact in actual project management; - relations with workers through the committee for health and safety; - actual results on health, safety and work conditions. On a local level, we give the companies passing the label a competitive edge in recruiting better candidates motivated by good work conditions, and help them fulfill ISO 26000 requirements, an increasingly decisive advantage to benefit from public regional and European support. Our paper describes the diagnosis and follow-up process. Show more

Keywords: ISO 26000, ergonomics, work conditions, social responsibility

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0437-2097

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2097-2100, 2012

Authors: Jacques, Jocelise J. | Guimarães, Lia B.M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This work is based on the study of pioneering sustainable product development initiatives, and the analysis was guided by the cradle-to-cradle concept, which sees the waste of a given process as raw material for another, just like it happens in nature. Several studies on human factors have focused on factory conditions and workers dealing with product assembly. This research, however, relates more to consumer behavior, product use and end-of-life. The purchase of more environmentally- friendly products, in particular, is heavily influenced by the information made available by the companies. In this scenario, this article discusses three early but notable efforts …on green product development, focusing on the disclosure practices adopted by the companies regarding the composition of their products. Research and data collection has focused on the footwear industry, whose products satisfy a basic human need and are ubiquitous worldwide. The use of hazardous materials and chemicals in shoe manufacturing, particularly the use of chromium – a highly toxic element – in addition to toxic solvents and adhesives and non-recyclable synthetic materials can pose serious risks to human health and the environment, even though the consumer usually is not aware of all the relevant characteristics of this kind of product. Show more

Keywords: sustainable product development, sustainable production, footwear industry, green products

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0438-2101

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2101-2108, 2012

Authors: Nadadur, G. | Parkinson, M.B.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This paper proposes a method to identify opportunities for increasing the efficiency of raw material allocation decisions for products that are simultaneously targeted at multiple user populations around the world. The values of 24 body measures at certain key percentiles were used to estimate the best-fitting anthropometric distributions for female and male adults in nine national populations, which were selected to represent the diverse target markets multinational companies must design for. These distributions were then used to synthesize body measure data for combined populations with a 1:1 female:male ratio. An anthropometric range metric (ARM) was proposed for assessing the variation …of these body measures across the populations. At any percentile, ARM values were calculated as the percentage difference between the highest and lowest anthropometric values across the considered user populations. Based on their magnitudes, plots of ARM values computed between the 1st and 99th percentiles for each body measure were grouped into low, medium, and high categories. This classification of body measures was proposed as a means of selecting the most suitable strategies for designing raw material-efficient products. The findings in this study and the contributions of subsequent work along these lines are expected to help achieve greater efficiencies in resource allocation in global product development. Show more

Keywords: anthropometry, design for sustainability, designing for multiple user populations, design for human variability

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0439-2109

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2109-2116, 2012

Authors: Anjos, Thaiana P. | Matias, Márcio | Gontijo, Leila A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Few steps like turning off the tap while brushing your teeth, turn off the lights when leaving a room, recycle waste or using recycling bags are considered sustainable attitudes. Sustainable development is one that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the future generations and it doesn’t deplete resources for the future. Consume with conscious is a sustainable habit and usability of products contributes to this. The goal of this paper is to prove that the usability of software contributes positivity or negativity for sustainability. By calculating the amount of electrical power dissipated by an electronic device, you …can discover the amount of energy lost by it, and consequently, to relate this quantity with the amount charged by the concessionaire for each kWh of energy used. It was concluded that a software with low usability cause users to lose a lot of time interacting with it and thus spend more energy and money that goes against the concept of sustainability. Show more

Keywords: usability, sustainability, usability test, power consumption

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0440-2117

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2117-2121, 2012

Authors: Oliveira, Luis | Mitchell, Val | Badni, Kevin

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Electric cookers are one of the highest energy consuming domestic appliances, and there are several aspects that can influence the amount of energy used when preparing a meal. Appliance characteristics are shown to influence consumption, but human factors play an important role in the overall electricity usage. A user observation study was conducted among university students to understand how they use electric cookers. They were asked to perform a specific cooking task, and the electricity usage was measured. Participants' behaviours were analysed and compared with a set of energy saving techniques. Appliance characteristics that influenced how students use energy were …also investigated. The results show that users performed the task in several different ways, presenting diverse energy consumption, the average being 3 times above the necessary to complete the task. This information is now informing the design of interventions to motivate people to change their behaviours whilst cooking. Show more

Keywords: Energy saving, cookers, user observation,

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-1016-2122

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2122-2128, 2012

Authors: Miller, Linda | Dorsey, Julie | Jacobs, Karen

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Protecting and conserving environmental resources is a global concern. Over the past decade, a number of certification processes have emerged to help designers and operators of buildings assess the potential impact of a building on the environment. Certifications such as the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) consider the environmental impact through the lifecycle of a building, but may not be considering the people that construct and utilize it. It is important to remember the human factor. Considering the human factor throughout the lifecycle is crucial to ensure individuals are protected during construction and in operation in the built …environment. The paper highlights how ergonomics can be integrated into the life cycle of a building to promote sustainability goals for both the human factor and the environment. A case study approach will be used to illustrate how ergonomics was integrated into a LEED renovation and expanded into its daily operations on a large university campus.. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, Sustainability, LEED, Occupant Health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0647-2129

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2129-2132, 2012

Authors: García-Acosta, Gabriel | Saravia Pinilla, Martha Helena | Riba i Romeva, Carles

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This work details the conceptual and methodological evolution of ‘Ergoecology’ and its relationship to certain comparable disciplinary proposals and standards, with a view to making its current status known and fostering discussion and development of it in a broader context. ‘Ergoecology’ is a discipline which relates the ergonomic system to ‘environmental factors’, stressing the relationships between ecological-geographical aspects and human activities. After analyzing previouslydeveloped and partially-validated methods, strengths are established, together with areas where there is room for improvement, based on conceptual validity. The objectives, principles, and premises of ‘Ergoecology’ will be revised and therefore it will be able to …be compared with other disciplinary and regulatory developments. Finally, new concepts and notions are proposed, together with basic principles and axioms that will enable ‘Ergoecology’ to advance in both, the theoretical and the practical dimensions, leaving the door open to be disseminated and applied. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, Ecology, Ergonomic system, Ergoecologic system, Eco-productivity, Eco-efficiency

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-1017-2133

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2133-2140, 2012

Authors: Attaianese, Erminia | Duca, Gabriella

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This paper presents an applied research aimed at understanding the relevance and the applicability of human related criteria in sustainability assessment of construction materials. Under a theoretical perspective, human factors consideration is strongly encouraged by building sustainability assessment methods, but the practice demonstrates that current models for building sustainability assessment neglect ergonomic issues, especially those ones concerning the construction phase. The study starts from the observation that new construction techniques for high energy efficient external walls are characterized by elements generally heavier and bigger than traditional materials. In this case, high sustainability performances connected with energy saving could be reached …only consuming high, and then not very much sustainable, human efforts during setting-up operations. The paper illustrates a practical approach for encompassing human factors in sustainability assessment of four block types for energy efficient external walls. Research steps, from block selections to bricklaying task analysis, human factors indicators and metrics formulation, data gathering and final assessment are going to be presented. Finally, open issues and further possible generalizations from the particular case study will be discussed. Show more

Keywords: Bricklaying, task analysis, human factors indicators, metrics, construction techniques

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-1018-2141

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2141-2146, 2012

Authors: Talsma, L | Molenbroek, J.F.M

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The transfer of knowledge in an ecotourism project is never a one-way affair. An approach connected to bottomup development is the submersion into another culture, while creating a new organizational structure. For co-creation, patterns that are often latent, such as leadership roles, the association with business, or even the color of education can be revealed by carefully facilitated brainstorms or workshops. Especially in countries with a different hierarchical structure, such as Indonesia compared to Holland, a careful analysis is needed before starting cooperation. Although a case is only a temporary view on a situation and not a guarantee for a …truly sustainable system, the bottom-up approach tested has interesting starting points for an ecotourism system. Two cases were conducted in Bali, Indonesia, which resulted in guidelines on how to approach usercentered ecotourism development. Show more

Keywords: Eco-tourism, sustainability, cultural diversity, co-creation, participatory research, developing countries

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-1019-2147

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2147-2154, 2012

Authors: Attaianese, Erminia

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The link between ergonomic/human factor and sustainability seems to be clearly evidenced mainly in relation to social dimension of sustainability, in order to contribute to assure corporate social responsibility and global value creation. But the will to establish an equilibrated connection among used resources in human activities, supported by the sustainability perspective, evidences that the contribution of ergonomics/human factors can be effectively enlarged to other aspects, especially in relation to building design. In fact a sustainable building is meant to be a building that contributes, through its characteristics and attribute, to a sustainable development by assuring, in the same time, …a decrease of resources use and environmental impact and an increase of health, safety and comfort of the occupants. The purpose of this paper is to analyze in a broader sense the contribution of ergonomic/human factor to design of sustainable building, focusing how ergonomics principles, methodology and techniques can improve building design, enhancing its sustainability performance during all phases of building lifecycle. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, sustainability, users, management, performances

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-1020-2155

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2155-2159, 2012

Authors: Guimarães, L. B. de M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This article presents a literature review on the concept of sustainability applied to cities and a proposal for transforming a town in the south of Brazil into a sustainable town. Improvements in energy, sanitation, waste and water conditions, as well as food, clothing, education and jobs generation were considered to enhance the citizen's quality of life and environmental protection.

Keywords: sustainability, cities, towns, environmental protection, socioeconomic growth

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-1021-2160

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2160-2168, 2012

Authors: de Assis, Uiara Wasconcelos | Silva, Glaucia Wasconcelos

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The changes happen quickly in today’s world, simultaneously interacting with technological advances in the sciences and new paradigms socio-political and economic, in search of a sustainable future and a present with emergency strategies for the preservation of humanity and the planet “Earth ”. Currently, the mobility of people in the intra-urban space is being threatened by congestion, pollution resulting from the appreciation of the culture of personal transport and the precariousness of public transportation. In the city of João Pessoa (PB), the subject of this finding for these disorders. Workers suffer the consequences of daily stress takes to access home-work, …difficulty in arriving at the right time to the workplace and adverse reactions caused by pollution. The VLT (Light Rail Vehicle) has been presented as a viable solution to the problems of public transport, with several experiments that can be seen as positive in the world. This work involves the implementation of a public transport system based on VLT Corridor along the Avenue Dom Pedro II, in João Pessoa (PB), aiming to acquire a good transport network for use of the population, reduce the number of vehicles on process, minimize pollution and optimize urban mobility. Show more

Keywords: Congestion, Transport, VLT, Population

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-1022-2169

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2169-2174, 2012

Authors: Venâncio, Geisy Anny | Heemann, Adriano | Chaves, Liliane Iten

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This paper approaches the challenge of considering the principles of sustainable development in the conception of products, services or systems in a specific territory, though inserted in a globalized world. The reflection takes place by crosschecking the information gathered through bibliographical research on the following themes: wellbeing, design, and the local versus global relation. Thus, the strategy of analysis adopted comprehends the triangulation of information for further comparison of the survey and discussion of the data obtained. This paper results in a set of reflections on the interactions between human beings and their territories, towards new conceptions oriented to a …more sustainable future. Show more

Keywords: Sustainability, ergodesign, satisfaction, need

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0648-2175

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2175-2178, 2012

Authors: Trierweiller, Andréa Cristina | Peixe, Blênio César Severo | Tezza, Rafael | Bornia, Antonio Cezar | de Andrade, Dalton Francisco | de Souza Campos, Lucila Maria

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Growing challenges with respect to preserving the environment have forced changes in company operational structures. Thus, the objective of this article is to measure the evidence of Environmental Management using the Item Response Theory, based on website analysis from Brazilian industrial companies from sectors defined through the scope of the research. This is a qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive study related to an information collection and analysis instrument. The general view of the research problem with respect to the phenomenon under study in based on multi-case studies, with the methodological outline based on the theoretical reference used. Primary data was gathered …from 270 company websites from 7 different Brazilian sectors and led to the creation of 26 items approved by environmental specialists. The results were attained with the measuring of Environmental Management evidence via the Item Response Theory, providing a clear order of the items involved based on each item's level of difficulty, quality, and propriety. This permitted the measurement of each item's quality and propriety, as well as that of the respondents, placing them on the same analysis scale. Increasing the number of items and companies involved is suggested fEor future research in order to permit broader sector analysis. Show more

Keywords: Environmental management performance, Industry websites, Disclosure, Measurement, Item response theory

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-1023-2179

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2179-2186, 2012

Authors: Neuhöfer, Jan A. | Govaers, Felix | Mokni, Hichem El | Alexander, Thomas

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Augmented Reality focuses on the enrichment of the user’s natural field of view by consistent integration of text, symbols and interactive three-dimensional objects in real time. Placing virtual objects directly into the user’s view in a natural context empowers highly dynamic applications. On the other hand, this necessitates deliberate choice of information design and density, in particular for deployment in hazardous environments like military combat scenarios. As the amount of information needed is not foreseeable and strongly depends on the individual mission, an appropriate system must offer adequate adaptation capabilities. The paper presents a prototypical, vehicle-mountable Augmented Reality vision system, …designed for enhancing situation awareness in stressful urban warfare scenarios. Tracking, as one of the most crucial challenges for outdoor Augmented Reality, is accomplished by means of a Differential-GPS approach while the type of display to attach can be modified, ranging from ocular displays to standard LCD mini-screens. The overall concept also includes envisioning of own troops (blue forces), for which a multi-sensor tracking approach has been chosen. As a main feature, the system allows switching between different information categories, focusing on friendly, hostile, unidentified or neutral data. Results of an empirical study on the superiority of an in-view navigation cue approach conclude the paper. Show more

Keywords: outdoor augmented reality, situation awareness, information design, information density

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0441-2187

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2187-2194, 2012

Authors: Teixeira, Luís | Vilar, Elisângela | Duarte, Emília | Rebelo, Francisco | da Silva, Fernando Moreira

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Previous studies suggest significant differences between navigating virtual environments in a life-like walking manner (i.e., using treadmills or walk-in-place techniques) and virtual navigation (i.e., flying while really standing). The latter option, which usually involves hand-centric devices (e.g., joysticks), is the most common in Virtual Reality-based studies, mostly due to low costs, less space and technology demands. However, recently, new interaction devices, originally conceived for videogames have become available offering interesting potentialities for research. This study aimed to explore the potentialities of the Nintendo Wii Balance Board as a navigation interface in a Virtual Environment presented in an immersive Virtual Reality …system. Comparing participants’ performance while engaged in a simulated emergency egress allows determining the adequacy of such alternative navigation interface on the basis of empirical results. Forty university students participated in this study. Results show that participants were more efficient when performing navigation tasks using the Joystick than with the Balance Board. However there were no significantly differences in the behavioral compliance with exit signs. Therefore, this study suggests that, at least for tasks similar to the studied, the Balance Board have good potentiality to be used as a navigation interface for Virtual Reality systems. Show more

Keywords: Virtual Reality, Navigation interfaces, Human performance, Emergency egress

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0649-2195

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2195-2200, 2012

Authors: Conradi, Jessica | Alexander, Thomas

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Exploration of a Virtual Environment (VE) might vary as well in applied technology as in the conceptual design. A conceptual difference of exploring style and navigation type relates to the degree of freedom a user possesses. It ranges from completely unrestricted to completely restricted navigation. To assess the impact of different exploration styles, an experiment was carried out. Four different styles were compared in a large-scale VE. The navigation of the participants was either free or restricted in various levels concerning motion and viewing direction. During the exploration, the participants memorized the location of flags, which represented special events at …these locations. The participant’s task was to memorize position and color of the flags. Subsequently, they marked the positions and colors of the flags in a map of the scene. The performance in this task was captured, as well as data about their amount of experienced simulator sickness and subjective workload. Additionally, balancing tests were administered to investigate in an objective measurement of simulator sickness. Each condition showed the same achievement in the memorizing task and the subjective workload. Furthermore, the measured high variance in simulator sickness symptoms overrode other effects. In the balancing tests a basic influence of exposure with VE was found. However, subsequent interviews with the participants showed that the personal impression of the efficiency of exploration method was highly individual. By finding and matching exploration methods to individual persons, benefit by using Virtual environments could be enhanced. Show more

Keywords: virtual environments, HMD, exploration, simulator sickness

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0442-2201

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2201-2207, 2012

Authors: Liston, Paul M. | Kay, Alison | Cromie, Sam | Leva, Chiara | D’Cruz, Mirabelle | Patel, Harshada | Langley, Alyson | Sharples, Sarah | Aromaa, Susanna

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This paper outlines the approach taken to iteratively evaluate a set of VR/AR (virtual reality / augmented reality) applications for five different manual-work applications – terrestrial spacecraft assembly, assembly-line design, remote maintenance of trains, maintenance of nuclear reactors, and large-machine assembly process design – and examines the evaluation data for evidence of the effectiveness of the evaluation framework as well as the benefits to the development process of feedback from iterative evaluation. ManuVAR is an EU-funded research project that is working to develop an innovative technology platform and a framework to support high-value, high-knowledge manual work throughout the product lifecycle. …The results of this study demonstrate the iterative improvements reached throughout the design cycles, observable through the trending of the quantitative results from three successive trials of the applications and the investigation of the qualitative interview findings. The paper discusses the limitations of evaluation in complex, multi-disciplinary development projects and finds evidence of the effectiveness of the use of the particular set of complementary evaluation methods incorporating a common inquiry structure used for the evaluation – particularly in facilitating triangulation of the data. Show more

Keywords: evaluation, iterative development, virtual reality, augmented reality, manual work

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0443-2208

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2208-2215, 2012

Authors: Brouillette, David | Thivierge, Guillaume | Marchand, Denis | Charland, Julie

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Muscle fatigue is considered as one of the major risk factors for developing musculoskeletal disorders. The aim of this project was to select an adequate fatigue assessment model for an implementation in Dassault Systemes digital human modeling software. A review of existing MET models has been done resulting in a decision to use the extended Ma's model (2010). In this project, only shoulder and elbow joints have been tested and more subjects will be necessary for further validation. The model has been compared to several endurance time (ET) static studies. Two dynamic experiments were also performed by two different subjects. …The results showed that because of the inter-individual variability, a simple prediction curve or value, can’t well predict individual measured ET (or task failure). There is a need for a chart representation which also shows standard deviation (SD) range. Considering the SD range, the results were included in the prediction. Thus, this range may help the human factors expert to nuance the prediction results while considering environment factors and some realities specific to the industry. Show more

Keywords: Muscle exhaustion, Human Modeling, Digital 3d Manikin, Human Simulation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-1024-2216

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2216-2225, 2012

Authors: Paul, Gunther | Daniell, Nathan | Fraysse, François

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Seat pressure is known as a major factor of seat comfort in vehicles. In passenger vehicles, there is lacking research into the seat comfort of rear seat occupants. As accurate seat pressure measurement requires significant effort, simulation of seat pressure is evolving as a preferred method. However, analytic methods are based on complex finite element modeling and therefore are time consuming and involve high investment. Based on accurate anthropometric measurements of 64 male subjects and outboard rear seat pressure measurements in three different passenger vehicles, this study investigates if a set of parameters derived from seat pressure mapping are sensitive …enough to differentiate between different seats and whether they correlate with anthropometry in linear models. In addition to the pressure map analysis, H-Points were measured with a coordinate measurement system based on palpated body landmarks and the range of H-Point locations in the three seats is provided. It was found that for the cushion, cushion contact area and cushion front area/force could be modeled by subject anthropometry, while only seatback contact area could be modeled based on anthropometry for all three vehicles. Major differences were found between the vehicles for other parameters. Show more

Keywords: seat comfort, seat posture, rear occupant, pressure mapping, vehicle package design

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0444-2226

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2226-2231, 2012

Authors: Wirsching, Hans-Joachim | Engstler, Florian

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Many digital human models provide the crucial method to calculate postures in virtual environments. Traditionally these methods refer to experiments and make use of statistical modeling. They provide sufficient results in their specialized domain, but cannot be used in general applications. In addition they do not consider important design aspects as forces and discomfort. Hence a new force based approach has been introduced in order to overcome these shortcomings. Based on biomechanical models of active maximal and passive receding joint torques, a mechanical optimization generates static stable postures and related discomfort ratings. The results were promising, but showed some model …deficiencies and were not validated in detail. The present paper continues this work and provides necessary model enhancements. Finally the new prediction models are validated on real experiments. The validation results are presented and discussed regarding to usability aspects and future development work. Show more

Keywords: biomechanics, digital human model, generic simulation model, validation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0445-2232

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2232-2237, 2012

Authors: Santos, V. | Guimarães, C.P. | Franca, G.A.N. | Cid, G.L. | Paranhos, A.G.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The goal of this paper is to present the advantages on the use of 3D Digital Human Models (DHM) on the design of public transport vehicles. In this case, the subjects were scanned using the WBX Cyberware 3D Whole Body Scanner, with functional and daily postures according to the use of public transportation and some especial cases, such as a mother with her offspring or a business man with his valise, so the volume of the person would be taken in consideration. A data collection was created to simulate several situations of the daily use of the vehicle.

Keywords: ergonomics, occupancy, magnetic levitation train and digital human model

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-1025-2238

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2238-2242, 2012