Affiliations: Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo,
Waterloo, Ontario, Canada Centre for Research Expertise for the Prevention of
Musculoskeletal Disorders (CRE-MSD)
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Richard Wells, Department of
Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Lyle Hallman Institute, 200 University
Ave. W, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, N2L 3G1. Tel.: +1 519 888 4567 x 33069; Fax:
+1 519 746 6776; E-mail: wells@uwaterloo.ca
Abstract: Objective: Tarping and untarping loads on flatbed trailers creates
concerns related to falls as well as high musculoskeletal demands. The purpose
of this study is to compare the demands and risks present when using three
different tarping systems and to determine which system is preferred to reduce
demand and injury risks. Participants: Nine male volunteers from a
flatbed trucking company participated in the study. Methods: The truck drivers covered the load on the flatbed trailer using three different tarping
systems: manual tarps, sliders, and rack and tarp kits. Multiple measures were
used to characterize the three tarping systems, including required forces,
identifying injury risk by assessing peak, average and cumulative forces,
moments and electromyography, heart rate, and exposure to fall hazards. Results: Manual tarping resulted in greater physical demands and safety risks
than the two alternate systems, both of which all participants preferred. The
slider method was preferred overall as it has numerous advantages. Conclusions: The slider and rack and tarp kit methods offered a wide range of
benefits including reduced physical demands, reduced exposure to fall hazards
as well as improved productivity due to the shorter execution times, but had
the disadvantage of being less versatile.
Keywords: Transportation industry, musculoskeletal disorders, fall hazards, ergonomic assessment, workplace intervention research
