Design and Development of a Training System for Manual Handling Tasks in Masonry
Loading...
Date
2021-09-24
Authors
McFarland, Tasha
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Waterloo
Abstract
The construction industry is one of the industries with the highest rates of musculoskeletal
disorders (MSDs). Masons are particularly susceptible to overexertion and back injuries due
to the physical demands of their jobs. In the past, optoelectronic motion capture has been
considered the ‘gold standard’ for motion capture in biomechanics; however, it is often not
feasible for onsite data collection. Therefore, most onsite assessment tools in the industry rely
on observational techniques of postures to estimate risk that cannot accurately estimate internal
joint demands. Advancements in inertial measurement unit (IMU) technology have led to the
development of data collection systems comparable to that of the aforementioned ‘gold
standard’, thereby enabling the quantification of joint loads and forces on masons in the
working environment. Previous research has reported that “technique” during manual handling
tasks, such as lifting, can have a large impact on spinal loads. The comparison of expert and
novice working techniques reveals that experts use distinct working strategies, which can lead
to both lower joint forces and increased productivity. Furthermore, training based on expert
work strategies has been shown to reduce exposures to biomechanical risks. Despite frequency
of injuries, MSD risks are often under-prioritized in terms of safety training. Researchers
emphasize a need to integrate ergonomics training within apprentices’ skill training classes.
This thesis focuses on the development of an enhanced training tool and program to reduce
MSD risk in apprentice masons. A novel quantitative scoring system was developed to estimate
MSD risk based on the peak joint loads of expert masons. This scoring system was integrated
into the enhanced training tool to better assess risk based on onsite measurement of joint loads.
Furthermore, the movement patterns of novice, apprentice and expert masons were analysed
to determine key characteristics of inexpert and expert techniques. These characteristics were
compared to high-risk postures in the literature to establish clear postural guidelines, which
were then implemented into the enhanced training tool. The tool was designed to provide
evidence-based recommendations to improve posture and technique based on kinematic
analyses of masons’ movements. User interviews were conducted with masonry instructors to
evaluate challenges, needs, and values for the training program. These insights directed the
design of the accompanying educational module and overall training program. The training
program and tool has the capacity to reduce biomechanical exposures of apprentice masons
and increase productivity.
Description
Keywords
biomechanics, ergonomics, training, masonry, user centered design